When most people think of Rio, they think of Carnival. But there’s so much more to see in this incredibly diverse city. Hikers, foodies, arts and culture enthusiasts, and history buffs will all find a good time in the Marvelous City.
Tijuca Rain Forest Jeep Tour from Rio de Janeiro
Ride through Tijuca National Park's rainforest in an open-top Jeep, then hike through the forest to spot sloths, butterflies, monkeys, and birds. Enjoy panoramic views from Vista Chinesa (Chinese View) and marvel at the fact that this section of the Mata Atlântica (Atlantic Forest) is just 10 minutes outside the city limits.
Rocinha Favela Walking Tour
Get an in-depth local experience with this walking tour of one of Rio's favelas, Rocinha. Follow your resident guide to get an insider's perspective on daily life and learn about the challenges these communities face. The price of the tour includes a monetary contribution to the community.
Brazilian Samba Show
While in Rio de Janeiro, go out for a night in the city to see the live show Ginga Tropical at Leblon theater. This 1.5-hour show gives you an interactive tour of Brazilian culture through dance, music, and live performance. Watch as artists combine frevo, Capoeira, and other methods of entertainment. At the end of the show, you can even join in as the cast invites the audience to samba with them in a Carnival-inspired finale.
Discover Petropolis
Get to know Petrópolis, the Imperial City of the State of Rio de Janeiro. Travel through Serra dos Órgãos National Park, stopping for great photo ops along the way. Tour the Quitandinha Palace and the Imperial Museum to get a sense of the region's history. Stop for a traditional Brazilian lunch, then take a walking tour of the historic streets lined with examples of architecture from different eras. End your day with a visit to the local brewery.
Brazilian Cooking Class
Immerse yourself in the culinary scene of Rio on this interactive evening at a small cooking studio. Learn about the flavors, ingredients and cooking techniques specific to Brazilian food. Cook a meal, either Bahian seafood Moqueca or a black bean Feijoada, using what you learned.
Little Africa
Delve deeper into the history of Little Africa in Rio de Janeiro with this insightful and informative walking tour around the city’s Saúde neighborhood. Once the largest African slave market in the world, Rio was the first port of call for millions of enslaved people arriving in Brazil. From carnival to samba, and food to music and religion to architecture, this guided walking tour shows how their heritage and legacy are still alive in Rio today.
Waterfalls and Caves
Get away from Rio’s raucous side and head deep into nature. You’ll head to the city’s “Green Lungs,” aka Tijuca National Park, the largest urban rainforest on the planet. You’ll wander amongst caves and waterfalls, watch for wildlife, and marvel at Brazilian biodiversity—bring your camera, your hiking shoes, and your exploring legs!
Ready to cruise to your Brazilian adventure? Click here to schedule a quick hello call with me and let’s chat about it.