Is São Paulo Tap Water Safe To Drink?

Yes! The tap water is safe to drink.

Tap water in São Paulo, Brazil, is generally treated and meets national safety standards set by the Brazilian Ministry of Health. It undergoes filtration and disinfection processes.

Water Sources
Drinking Fountains

However, occasional issues with water quality can occur due to aging infrastructure or contamination events. Boiling tap water is sometimes recommended locally for added safety.

Bottled or filtered water is a common alternative for residents and visitors seeking extra precaution, especially in peripheral areas where water quality monitoring is less consistent.

Last checked: 2025-04-25

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 São Paulo, Brazil

São Paulo's tap water primarily comes from Cantareira, Guarapiranga, and Alto Tietê river basins. These reservoirs supply most of the metropolitan area.

The Cantareira system is the largest, providing about 50% of the city's water. It relies on multiple interconnected reservoirs and treatment plants.

Water is collected, treated, and distributed by Sabesp, the state water utility, ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards before reaching consumers.

São Paulo Drinking Fountains

Public drinking fountains in São Paulo vary in safety; some receive treated water, but others may lack regular maintenance or face contamination risks.

Using public fountains carries potential health risks due to exposure to bacteria or pollutants, especially if cleanliness and sanitation are not consistently ensured.

For safety, it is advisable to use bottled or filtered water instead of drinking directly from public fountains, particularly for vulnerable individuals.

Drinking Water Map

Here is a map showing all the locations of drinking water spots in São Paulo. You can click on each water drop to open the spot directly in Google Maps for directions.

Nearby Places

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.

Disclaimer

* The information provided on this website regarding the safety of tap water in São Paulo is sourced from reputable sources such as the World Health Organization (WHO), local water authorities, and the Environmental Performance Index (EPI) from Yale University. While we strive to ensure accuracy and reliability, it's important to note that water quality can vary over time and may be subject to factors beyond our control. Users are encouraged to verify the current water quality status with local authorities or consult additional resources before making decisions regarding water consumption. We disclaim any liability for actions taken based on the information provided on this website.