This study aimed to verify risk behavior for infection with the Human Immunodeficiency Virus in people who attended motels. This is a cross-sectional study conducted in two motels in two municipalities in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, with a sample of 308 randomly selected individuals, aged between 18 and 60 years. Bivariate (chi-square and t test for independent samples) and multivariate (logistic regression) statistical tests were performed. A total of 45.8% of the participants reported not having used a condom during the last vaginal sexual intercourse, 48.4% did not use a condom during the last oral sex, while 26.3% reported not having used a condom in the last anal intercourse. Having a steady partner was the strongest predictor of not using condoms. Probable beliefs regarding loyalty involved in a stable relationship may be contributing to the failure to use condoms during intercourse, increasing the risk of HIV infection.