Swiss Tourist Shot in Favela in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

On 29 December, a Swiss tourist was shot and critically injured while driving into the Cidade Alta favela in northern Rio de Janeiro while following GPS directions.

Advice

This incident indicates the safety risk in favelas (slums or low-income areas). The safety and security situation in many favelas is unpredictable and dangerous, especially in Rio de Janeiro. Although some companies offer tours of favelas, there is still a risk of violent crime and gun battles between gangs and police. Tourists have been killed.

Take extra care to avoid entering a favela either on foot or by car. Ensure that a GPS system does not lead to a dangerous area.