About this experience
"God created the world in six days, and on the seventh day he created Rio de Janeiro," say the Brazilians about their favorite city. Loud, contrasting, and endlessly sunny Rio, a crystal dream of Ostap Bender, the center of carnivals and eternal fun. To immerse yourself in its temperamental life, I have prepared two optional routes. We will explore the symbols of the central area or head to the South zone, where there is more nature, beaches, and panoramic views. The duration and cost of both options are the same.
What to expect
Option 1. Central Zone: architectural landmarks and hiking on Urca mountain
- We will start the journey at Floriano Square - you will learn who it was named after. The most prominent structure here is the Municipal Theater, opened in 1909 as part of a large architectural ensemble. I will tell you the secret of its foundation.
- You will see the magnificent National Library, the largest in Latin America and seventh in the world. It houses over 2 million books, as well as rare manuscripts and manuscripts.
- We will stop at the ancient arched Carioca Aqueduct - I will tell you why it was built here.
- Then we will move to the Olympic Boulevard and take a photo in front of a gigantic graffiti that entered the Guinness Book of Records. You will learn the history of its appearance and also hear about the author, whose work is also present in Moscow.
- We will approach the Museum of Tomorrow, an ultra-modern building resembling a giant spaceship. If desired, it can be visited.
- You will also get acquainted with the amazing story of Rio's postcard, the mosaic Selarón Staircase.
- We will visit the Red Beach (Praia Vermelha), a real oasis in the urban jungle. From here you will have the best view of the Sugarloaf Mountain.
- If you prefer, instead of the traditional and quite expensive cable car, we will take an easy hike to Urca mountain (220 meters). From the top, you will enjoy views of Guanabara Bay, the satellite city of Niteroi, Santos-Dumont Airport, and some districts of Rio, such as Leme and Botafogo.
Option 2. South Zone of Rio: nature, beaches, and breathtaking views
- We will walk through the Botafogo district and climb to the top floor of Botafogo Praia Shopping mall, to one of the secret viewpoints that few know about - for breathtaking views from a huge panoramic window of the Sugarloaf Mountain.
- Then we will move to the Leme district, where there are more natural landscapes. We will walk along a beautiful and easy trail through the Atlantic Forest. Along the way, you may encounter inhabitants of the local fauna, such as squirrel monkeys from the Mico genus and lizards. The route will lead us to the top of Morro do Leme hill.
- Here is the fortress-fortress of Duque de Caxias. Although it is located in a military zone, it can be visited without hindrance. From here, you will have a good view of the place where ships enter the bay, where Rio is located. You will see Corcovado Mountain, Copacabana Beach, and the Sugarloaf from a new angle.
- Next, we will visit the small Leme Beach - get ready for another dose of stunning panoramas.
- And here is the famous Copacabana with its black and white alleys on the waterfront! The hottest beach in the world and a symbol of Rio. If desired, we will visit the eponymous fort.
- Ahead of us is the Ipanema district and another beach, which is among the top 3 beaches in Brazil.
- To escape the hot sun, we will seek shade in the Enrique Lage Park - I will tell you why it can be called the Brazilian Taj Mahal.
- At the end of the journey, we will witness the sunset at Arpoador Cape, where the sun sets to the applause of locals and travelers.
I will help you choose the best angles for photos and take them on your devices in high quality. I will suggest where to have a cheap and excellent lunch, as well as where to find the most delicious acai ice cream.
Who is this tour for
For all travelers, including children from 7 years old, as it takes into account your preferences and is tailored to your pace. The tour will be interesting both for those who are first getting acquainted with Rio and for those who have been here before.
Organizational details
- Additional expenses: tickets to museums and Maracana stadium (optional), food and drinks, metro/taxi fare
- The routes can be adjusted according to your preferences - I will consider all your preferences, the age of the participants, physical fitness, weather conditions, and other important factors
- Before and after the tour, I will be happy to help you with any questions about Rio
- Make sure to wear comfortable sports shoes (in case of hiking on a trail), bring a backpack for personal belongings and gadgets, a cap, sunglasses and sunscreen, as well as a small supply of drinking water