Rio de Janeiro , Brazil

Favela Tour in Rio de Janeiro

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(471 reviews)

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About this experience

FAVELATOUR is indispensable if you look for a deeper perspective of many aspects of Brazil`s complex socioeconomic issues. Tour integrates visitors and locals revealing a new angle of favelas and its people, changing their reputation of exclusion.
You will go to Rocinha, largest favela in Brazil, and may be, Vila Canoas, according to weather condition. From there you also get to see impressive panoramic views over Rio. We walk you through both residential and commercial area and you may also purchase nice handcrafts, if you wish.
We will also lead you to a local school financed by FAVELA TOUR, and show other local community projects. Favelas are safer than most people believe, but no matter how adventurer you are, go to a favela with an organized tour. We are the pioneer of social tours to favelas since early 1992.
If you really want to understand Brazil better, don´t leave Rio missing the FAVELA TOUR.
We do not offer tours on sunday PM. Tours need minimum quorun to go.

Available options

Favela Tour Rocinha

Pickup included

What's included

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Arriving in Rocinha, explanation about the architecture, public services, local cultural aspects, carnival etc...

Visiting the Rocinha handcraft center.

Going to a local terrace, pause for pictures and images of a breathtaking view over Rocinha and Rio, talks about the security, local infrastructure and other aspects of favelas and favela life.

Driving down through the "Estrada da Gávea", a former F1 race track.

Walking on the commercial and central area.

Visiting the "MORANGUINHOS" or "SACI SABE TUDO" community schools. These social projects are financed by FAVELA TOUR. Besides regular classes, the school teaches local kids initial computer skills, English classes, music, capoeira, ballet classes etc... These projects have absolutely no financial support from Brazilian government.

Stop 2 Pass by

Part of the road trip trajectory towards and back from the Favela includes most South Zone beaches in Rio.

Stop 3 Pass by

Part of the road trip trajectory towards the back of the Favela includes most South Zone beaches in Rio.

Stop 4 Pass by

Part of the road trip trajectory towards the back of the Favela includes most South Zone beaches in Rio.

Available languages

Guide guide

PT EN IT FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.6

186 reviews

5★

148

4★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.6

285 reviews

5★

223

4★

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1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

You will visit Vila Canoas according to weather condition.

Não operamos tours nos domingos a tarde. Tours sujeitos a quorum minimo para a confirmação final

Important notes

Please indicate your Hotel/accommodation to ensure we are able to pick you up.

About Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro, known as the 'Marvelous City,' is famous for its natural settings, Carnival, samba, bossa nova, and Balneario beaches such as Copacabana and Ipanema. It's a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, including the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue and Sugarloaf Mountain.

Top Attractions

Christ the Redeemer

One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, this iconic statue offers breathtaking views of Rio de Janeiro.

Historical/Religious 2-3 hours R$84 (including train ticket)

Sugarloaf Mountain

A famous peak offering stunning views of Rio de Janeiro and its beaches.

Nature 2-3 hours R$88 (round-trip cable car)

Copacabana Beach

One of the most famous beaches in the world, known for its vibrant atmosphere and beautiful sunsets.

Beach Half day or full day Free

Tijuca National Park

The world's largest urban forest, offering hiking trails, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.

Nature Half day or full day Free (some attractions may have fees)

Santa Teresa

A historic and bohemian neighborhood known for its cobblestone streets, art galleries, and scenic views.

Cultural Half day Free to explore

Must-Try Local Dishes

Feijoada

A hearty stew made with black beans and various cuts of pork, often served with rice, collard greens, and orange slices.

Dinner Contains pork, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Pão de Queijo

Cheese bread made with tapioca flour, giving it a unique texture and flavor.

Snack Vegetarian, but contains dairy.

Moqueca

A traditional fish stew cooked in coconut milk and dendê oil, with various seafood and vegetables.

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan with vegetable broth and tofu.

Açaí

A thick, creamy fruit pulp from the açaí palm, often served with granola and condensed milk.

Dessert/Drink Can be made vegan with plant-based milk.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Tijuca National Park Surfing in Arpoador Paragliding in Pedra Bonita Beach lounging in Ipanema Spa treatments in Copacabana Yoga in Botafogo Visiting museums in Centro Attending a samba show

Best Time to Visit

December to March

This is the peak tourist season with warm weather and the famous Carnival in February/March. Expect crowded beaches and higher prices.

25-30°C 77-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Portuguese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Brazilian Real (BRL)

Time Zone

GMT-3 (Brasília Time)

Electricity

110V/220VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Rio de Janeiro is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and violence can occur. Exercise caution, especially in less touristy areas and at night.

Important Precautions:

• Avoid walking alone at night in unsafe areas
• Use common sense and stay alert to your surroundings
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight

Getting there

By air

Rio de Janeiro-Galeão International Airport • 20 km (12 miles) from city center
Santos Dumont Airport • 12 km (7.5 miles) from city center

By train

Central do Brasil

By bus

Rodoviária Novo Rio, Terminal Rodoviário da Gavea

Getting around

Public transport

Efficient and air-conditioned, the metro is a great way to avoid traffic.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, 99 Taxis

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Copacabana Ipanema Santa Teresa Lapa Botafogo

Day trips

Petrópolis

65 km (40 miles) • Full day

A charming colonial town in the mountains, known for its historic architecture and cool climate.

Paraty

170 km (105 miles) • Full day or overnight

A historic coastal town with cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and beautiful beaches.

Búzios

170 km (105 miles) • Full day or overnight

A picturesque beach town known for its stunning beaches, clear waters, and vibrant nightlife.

Festivals

Carnival • February/March (dates vary) Rio Carnival Samba Parade • February/March (dates vary) New Year's Eve (Réveillon) • December 31

Pro tips

Visit Christ the Redeemer early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the best views
Take a helicopter tour for a unique perspective of the city
Explore the less touristy neighborhoods like Santa Teresa and Botafogo for a more authentic experience
Try local street food like pão de queijo and coxinha for a taste of Brazilian flavors
Learn some basic Portuguese phrases to enhance your interactions with locals