RIO DE JANEIRO
Heading to Rio de Janeiro
Rio de Janeiro is just as spectacular and unique as everyone says, so it’s no wonder it’s called Cidade Maravilhosa (the Marvelous City). Rio is the ultimate mix of big-city vibes and beach life, packed with entertainment, action-filled adventures, and shopping. Enjoy the epic views from the peaks surrounding the city which has a whole vibe of its own.
A mind-blowing megacity
With stunning peaks, iconic beaches, and unbeatable energy, Rio will completely capture your heart.
Escadaria Selarón
View of Rio de Janeiro
Surfs up
Boardwalk Ipanema
Carnival
New Years Eve
Catch a game!
Favela-tour
capoeira
Big Dude
Take a hike
Travel with other likeminded people
The contrasts are massive in Rio
Ocean waves crash dramatically against lush mountains, while different social classes live side by side. It’s not uncommon to see huge, luxurious properties right next to one of the many favelas where the city's poorest live. Instead of exploring on your own, sign up for a guided tour with local guides to experience the favelas safely. It gives you a taste of the fascinating, high-energy life in these neighborhoods and communities, which is just as much the real Rio as golden beaches and wide boulevards. It won’t take many days before the city gets under your skin and you’ll quickly feel right at home among beautiful bays, beaches, and lush mountain peaks, hanging out with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a fresh caipirinha. You’ll also get used to the constant soundtrack of an exotic metropolis's charming traffic chaos while strolling along miles of beach promenades. This and SO much more is Rio, one of the world's most diverse and contrast-filled cities!
Favela-tour
Escape the city and explore the state
If you think the adventure stops at the city borders, think again. The surrounding Rio de Janeiro state is a goldmine for backpackers looking to explore further. Just a few hours away, you’ll find Ilha Grande, a massive tropical island with zero cars, epic jungle hikes, and insanely beautiful beaches like Lopes Mendes. If you’re chasing that postcard-perfect crystal water, head over to Arraial do Cabo, often called the "Brazilian Caribbean," which is a hotspot for diving and chilling on powdery white sand. Want a break from the coastal heat? Head up into the mountains to Petrópolis, a historic mountain town surrounded by lush forests, or check out the surf vibes and wild nightlife in the beach town of Búzios. Exploring the wider state gives you the ultimate mix of island paradise, mountain trekking, and hidden surf spots.
Strolling the streets of Ilha Grande
The bucketlist items
When you're heading to Rio, you absolutely have to hit up one or more of its insane viewpoints. Catch the cable car to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain (Pão de Açúcar) and watch the massive city shrink beneath you as you head up. You can even catch a glimpse of Christ the Redeemer towering over the mountains in the distance. For a closer look, make your way to the top of Corcovado, another spot that delivers jaw-dropping views.
When it comes to nightlife, Rio is next level. The world-famous Rio Carnival needs no introduction, but New Year’s Eve is another absolute must if you want to party like a local. Copacabana Beach goes completely wild, packed to the brim with people dancing in incredible outfits. Soak in the epic vibes as colorful fireworks explode over the ocean at midnight! There is always a lively, party-ready energy buzzing over Rio. Samba and bossa nova beats drift out from beach bars, and every single weekend the streets come alive with an unmatched atmosphere whenever one of the local football teams plays. Trust us, the crowd is always a party!
Carnival
Other areas in Brazil
Discover what Brazil has to offer
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