Staying healthy in Rio de Janeiro: travel insurance, the public health system (SUS), dengue and repellent, tap water, beach water quality reports and emergency numbers.
Emergency numbers
190
Police
192
SAMU ambulance
193
Fire & sea rescue
Most visitors don't need special vaccines for Rio, and the city has solid medical facilities. Still, four things matter: travel with insurance, protect yourself from mosquitoes in summer, choose clean beaches for swimming and respect the sun, which is strong year-round.
Travel insurance: required or not?
You'll read conflicting claims that insurance is mandatory for Brazil; in practice immigration rarely checks. Our honest take: treat it as essential. Private care in Rio is good but expensive, and US health plans rarely cover you abroad.
- Check whether your credit card includes travel medical coverage.
- Look for solid medical limits, evacuation, and adventure sports if you'll hike or hang-glide.
- Save the policy PDF and the assistance line on your phone.
Dengue, water and food
| Risk | What to do | |
|---|---|---|
| Dengue | Higher in summer and the rainy season (Dec–May) | DEET or picaridin repellent, especially at dusk; long sleeves in green areas |
| Tap water | It's treated, but locals rarely drink it straight | Drink bottled or filtered water; ice in restaurants is generally fine |
| Street food | Low at busy stalls | Pick busy stalls; skip raw seafood in the heat |
| Sun and heat | Very high UV most of the year | SPF 50, a hat, coconut water, and avoid 10 a.m.–4 p.m. sun |
Which beaches are safe to swim
The state environmental agency INEA publishes a water-quality bulletin listing beaches as própria (OK) or imprópria (not OK) for swimming. Bay beaches such as Botafogo, Flamengo and Urca are most often flagged. Copacabana, Ipanema and Leblon are usually fine, but wait a day or two after heavy rain.
Beaches: where to swim and where to skip
Travel health kit
Tick off what's packed
Frequently asked questions
No: Brazil doesn't require it for tourist entry, but it's highly recommended: private care is expensive.
Nature, with a guide who knows the way
Small groups, English-speaking guides and pickup included. Pay by card or Pix.
"Stand Up Paddle at Sunrise in Copacabana"
Row at dawn in the calm waters of Copacabana with a view of Sugarloaf Mountain - class, equipment and photos included.
Excursion to Angra dos Reis from Rio de Janeiro
Live an unforgettable day in Angra dos Reis with a boat ride through its paradisiacal islands and crystal-clear waters. Includes transfer from Rio, guide and lunch for a complete and worry-free experience.
Recommended tours for this guide
Book online with a local guide, a fixed price and payment by international card or Pix.
"Stand Up Paddle at Sunrise in Copacabana"
Row at dawn in the calm waters of Copacabana with a view of Sugarloaf Mountain - class, equipment and photos included.
Excursion to Angra dos Reis from Rio de Janeiro
Live an unforgettable day in Angra dos Reis with a boat ride through its paradisiacal islands and crystal-clear waters. Includes transfer from Rio, guide and lunch for a complete and worry-free experience.
