Is Rio de Janeiro Tap Water Safe To Drink?
Yes! The tap water is safe to drink.
Tap water in Rio de Janeiro is treated and generally meets Brazil’s drinking water standards, making it safe to drink from the public supply. Chlorine taste, aging pipes, and occasional service or contamination problems can affect water quality in some areas.
For the most consistent quality, residents and visitors often use a certified household filter or bottled water. People with weakened immune systems, young children, and older adults should choose filtered or boiled water.
Last checked: 2026-08-31
Brazil is ranked as number 79 globally with a score of 59.4% in the water quality EPI research conducted by Yale University.
Source of Water in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Tap water in Rio de Janeiro mainly comes from the Guandu Water Supply System. Its water is drawn from the Guandu River, which receives flows transferred from the Paraíba do Sul River system, and is treated at the Guandu Water Treatment Plant.
Some areas also receive water from smaller systems, including Ribeirão das Lajes and Acari. After treatment, CEDAE distributes the water through Rio’s municipal supply network.
Rio de Janeiro Drinking Fountains
Public drinking fountains in Rio de Janeiro generally use treated municipal water, but safety depends on regular cleaning and maintenance. Some fountains may have contaminated spouts, stagnant water, or damaged plumbing.
Use a fountain only if it appears clean, flows continuously, and is clearly maintained. When hygiene is uncertain, choose sealed bottled water instead.
Drinking Water Map
Here is a map showing all the locations of drinking water spots in Rio de Janeiro. You can click on each water drop to open the spot directly in Google Maps for directions. For easy access on the go, download our iOS app to find water fountains nearby.
About the Author
Hi, I'm Emily Hartman, a researcher and water quality specialist with a background in public health.
I've spent the last few years studying how everyday water systems impact our health, and I'm passionate about making that information clear and useful for everyone.
Safe, clean tap water isn't just my job, it's something I truly care about.