Expert: Ken Rapoza Cruz - 4/28/2010

Question
Hi.  Can you tell me how far away the Flamengo, Botafogo and Ipanema-Leblon areas are from Copacabana Beach?  If they are walking distance, would it be safe to walk to those areas from Copacabana Beach after the New Year's Celebration?  Thanks

Answer
They are not within walking distance. Figure Copa is on the other side of Ipanema, so it depends if you are near the Sofitel you can walk to the outer edges of Ipanema. Leblon and Copa are side by side so they are definitely walkable. Its the same strip of sand on Av Atlantica. Flamengo e Botafogo are not real beach destinations. You can use google maps and get a better arial view of all the beaches you are inquiring about, so I would recommend it.

New Years Eve will be mobbed so it should be safe, yes. However, Rio being Rio...one never knows. It is the most dangerous big city in Brazil by far If youre a tourist, and have money, DO NOT flaunt it. Take off the Tag Haeur and the $180 sneakers and dont wear a silly fanny pack or a bulging wallet full of cash and you should be fine, providing you are doing things there that are legal and with Brazilians who are also behaving legally.