Rio de Janeiro , Brazil

Guided Walk to Santa Teresa

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Santa Teresa is one of the most bucolic neighborhoods in Rio de Janeiro and is close to the city center. The neighborhood is home to mansions from the early 20th century. Today it is a stronghold of plastic artists, where there is the tram, dated 1897.

The Tour Santa Teresa is an excursion that immerses you in one of the most charming neighborhoods in Rio, located high up on a hill cut by the cable car trails and highlighted by its museums, squares, ateliers and shops!

The Tour takes place twice a day, in the morning and in the afternoon.

Available options

Guided Walk to Santa Teresa

What's included

Professional bilingual tour guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

One more of the pleasant surprises of one of my favorite places in Rio, the Parque das Ruínas located at the top of Santa Teresa, has a viewpoint that allows an incredible panoramic view of the city. But it is not just the view that impresses and attracts visitors, as the place is also a cultural center with a varied program and, in addition, it has a very interesting historical side.

Right at the entrance to the favela is the place where some scenes from the movie Fast and Furious 5 were recorded.
Parts of Elite Squad 2 were also filmed in the community, not to mention the list of artists who have visited the site, such as pop stars Michael Jackson and Madonna, as well as personalities like Alicia Keys, Vin Diesel, Hugh Jackman, Jason Statham among others.

The view from the top of the favela is incredible! Sugarloaf, Urca, Corcovado, Ipanema, Copacabana and more, all seen at once.

Stop 2

The Chácara do Céu Museum, which was the former residence of Castro Maya and left by himself for the benefit of the population through the Castro Maya Foundation, is in Santa Teresa and has been known by that name since 1876. Inherited by Castro Maya in 1936 and listed by the National Historical and Artistic Heritage Institute (IPHAN) in 1974, the museum displays art collections from different periods, and from different origins, rare books, furniture and decorative arts, distributed in a house with three floors.

Today, in addition to long-term and temporary exhibitions, the museum maintains two rooms originally furnished and acclimated, in order to preserve the character of the place's residence.

Yellow tram stop and bohemian meeting point with bars, cultural events and old buildings.

“Laurinda”, as it is known, is the cultural center of the neighborhood most connected to the memory of Santa Teresa. In the space there are exhibitions and photographic projections, dance and music workshops, theatrical performances, children's activities, piano recitals and various outdoor events.

What's not included

Food and Drinks

Private transportation

Available languages

Guide guide

DE PT EN IT FR ES

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

The tour is not private, but shared, and the guide will speak in English, Spanish and Portuguese

We do the tour, rain or shine. The day of the tour is chosen by the customer, therefore no refund will be generated in case of bad weather. We will do the tour rain or shine.

Meeting point

Metro Carioca exit Rio Branco

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