Rio de Janeiro travel guide

Rio de Janeiro - Rio is Brazil´s second largest city after São Paulo, and was the capital of Brazil for nearly two centuries until Brasilia took over in 1960. Today it is one of the most visited cities in the world, home to a vibrant cultural mix and a metropolitan population of around 14 million. The city’s incredible geography makes for breathtaking views, with jungle covered mountains rising up dramatically between sparkling bays and golden beaches. Then there’s the exuberance of the people who live there - the Cariocas themselves - whose inherent instinct for celebration has made Rio the place to be for some of the world’s biggest parties, including Carnival and the spectacular New Year’s Eve celebrations. With so many superlatives, it is no wonder that Rio de Janeiro is known as ‘The Marvelous City’.

Don’t miss…

Carnival – Every February or March Brazil erupts in a frenzy of celebration for the world-famous Carnival, and it is Rio that throws one of the country’s biggest parties. Elaborate costumes of feathers, jewels and tiny bikinis abound, and samba bands pound the streets in an extravaganza of merrymaking which goes on day and night for nigh-on eight days.

Christ the Redeemer – This impressive 38m high statue is an integral part of the Rio skyline. Built in 1931 atop Corcovado Mountain, the iconic ‘Christ the Redeemer’ statue can be seen from all over the city.  

Tijuca Forest – One of the largest urban forests in the world, Tijuca was replanted in the 1900s after previously being cleared to make room for coffee plantations. It is home to many protected species of plant and animal wildlife that can only be found in Atlantic rainforest.

Sugarloaf Mountain – Towering over Guanabara Bay, Sugarloaf Mountain is so named because of its sheer sides and rounded summit. In 1912 it became home to the first cable-car in Brazil, built by engineer Augusto Ferreira Ramos.

Copacabana Beach – Originally a small seaside village, the area around Copacabana began to grow rapidly during the early 1900s. Today it is a bustling city-beach famous for its lively New Year's Eve celebrations.

Ipanema Beach – Another busy Rio de Janeiro city-beach, Ipanema has a laid-back atmosphere with a hippie market on weekends and many restaurants, shops, cafes and bars.

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