The Ultimate Brazil Travel Guide: Recife & Olinda

Things to know before you go to Recife

Is Recife safe for tourists

Like any big city, there are safer and more dangerous areas, but the majority of tourists who stay in the tourist areas and take some simple precautions will not have problems. Sticking to well-known areas, planning your movements in advance, and being aware of your surroundings will go a long way in avoiding trouble.

In Recife, areas such as Boa Viagem, Recife Antigo during the day, and parts of Graças are considered safer and are popular with tourists for their beaches, cultural attractions, and restaurants. However, some areas that also attract visitors require extra caution, including parts of Recife Antigo at night, parts of Pina, and certain sections of the city centre.

These are my personal recommendations for ways you can stay safe in Recife:

• Book accommodation in the recommended areas for visitors, such as Boa Viagem or Graças

• Do not leave your belongings unattended on the beach

• Use Uber or other reputable rideshare services with a credit card linked to your account, as it avoids handling cash and provides a digital record of your trip

• Avoid walking at night, particularly in quieter neighbourhoods or streets with little lighting

• Keep your phone, jewellery, and other valuables out of sight when in public or travelling on public transport

• Be cautious when withdrawing cash, choose ATMs located inside banks or shopping centres

• If in doubt, ask your hotel or host for up-to-date local advice on places to avoid

Travel insurance for Recife

Travel insurance is not just a nice-to-have, it is an important safety-net that can prevent a stressful incident from turning into an expensive disaster. The reality is that unexpected events can happen on any trip. Even something as simple as missing a connecting flight can lead to unexpected accommodation and transport costs. If you become unwell, medical bills in another country can quickly become expensive. Without insurance, you have to handle all of this on your own in an unfamiliar environment, possibly in a language you do not speak.

I have personally relied on travel insurance multiple times, including when I had belongings stolen in Europe, fell sick while travelling in Asia, and had flights cancelled. In each case, the support I received meant I could focus on solving the problem instead of worrying about costs.

For a small daily cost, you can be covered for a wide range of scenarios, from theft to delayed flights and medical emergencies. Having one phone number to call and a company that deals with the problem for you is worth far more than the price of the policy. I personally use Safety Wing, and I recommend them to friends, family, and anyone travelling internationally. You can get a quote here.

A few more things to know about visiting Recife

• Hot Summers: Summers in Recife are extremely hot and humid, with temperatures often soaring into the 90s°F (30s°C). If you’re visiting during the summer months (December to March), it’s essential to bring plenty of sunscreen and light clothes to protect yourself from the strong sun. Staying hydrated is important, so always carry water with you. When booking accommodation, check whether it has air conditioning, as the heat continues into the night.

• Olinda’s Mini Carnaval: Just a short trip from Recife, the neighboring city of Olinda hosts a mini Carnaval every Sunday evening throughout the year. The streets of the historic center come alive with local music, colorful costumes, and food stalls offering a variety of delicious street foods. The festival offers a small taste of the famous Carnaval celebrations even if you're visiting outside the official Carnaval season. It's a great opportunity to experience authentic local culture.

• Local Cuisine: Recife is known for its Northeastern cuisine, with dishes that include fresh seafood, tapioca, and the famous "bolo de rolo" (a rolled cake with guava paste). Be sure to try some of the local specialties while you’re there, whether at a street vendor, a beachfront kiosk, or a traditional restaurant.

• Beaches and Shark Safety: Recife is home to some beautiful beaches, such as Boa Viagem, but it’s important to be aware of safety warnings regarding shark activity in certain areas. Some beaches have restrictions on swimming due to frequent shark sightings. Stick to the designated swimming zones, including the natural tide pools.