Alternative Viewpoints 4 Hours Private Tour
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Alternative Viewpoints 4 Hours Private Tour

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(11 reviews)
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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About this experience

This tour you take you to 4 off the beaten path viewpoints in Rio and give you a real perspective of the city. You’ll be able to see the best view in town staying away from the crowds that flock to the main attractions.

Perfect for those who love landscapes but don’t want to stand in lines at the main attractions.

I’ve carefully selected the top 4 admission free vantage points in Rio.

Parque do Penhasco
Chinese Pagoda
Mirante Dona Marta
Parque das Ruinas

Tour includes pickup and drop-off from your accommodation in Rio, cruise port or airport.

Available options

ENGLISH, SPANISH & PORTUGUESE

Larger Vehicles: 1 person - Compact Car
2 to 3 people -Sedan
4 to 5 people - SUV
6 to 10 people - Van

<br/>English, Spanish & Portuguese: This tour version can be conducted in English, Spanish or Portuguese upon your convenience.<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Local guide
Tolls and parking fees
All attractions visited on this tour are free of charge.
Fuel surcharge
Transportation in a private car

Detailed itinerary

1

Your will start with a visit to Parque do Penhasco in Leblon.
Places we will drive by on the way to the first attraction will depend on your hotel location.
Tour is conducted in an air-conditioned vehicle driven by your tour guide.

2
Stop 2

At the foot of a gigantic seaside mountain in the end of Leblon Beach, Parque do Penhasco offers the best perspective of Leblon and Ipanema beaches.

From over here the mountains lush vegetation can be seen in contrast with the busy intersections of the city.

Upon taking some pictures and enjoying this viewpoint we will procced to the Chinese Pagoda inside Tijuca National Park.

3

Nice vantage viewpoint at the end of Leblon Beach.

4
Stop 4 Pass by

Depending on your hotel location we'll pass by this very nice beach in the most expensive neighborhood in South America.

5
Stop 5 Pass by

Simply put, the most beautiful beach, with the most beautiful people, in the south side of Rio. Don´t miss the opportunity to see Tom Jobim´s statue and take great shots of the beach and Dois Irmãos´hill.

6

A large rock at the end of Ipanema Beach considered one of the best spots in Rio to observe the sunset during the summer.

7
Stop 7 Pass by

The Fort seats at the tip of the Copacabana Beach and offers some of the best views in of Copacabana.

8
Stop 8 Pass by

This worldwide famous beach is also the area where most hotels are located in Rio.

9

The seaside avenue in Copacabana is the most famous beach area in Rio.

10
Stop 10 Pass by

At the very end of Copacabana Beach Leme Beach is the best place for a picture of Copacabana.

11

A less busy beach located at the very far end of Copacabana.

12

This fort, located at the very end of Copacabana Beach, is a well-kept secret.

The fort was built in 1776 as a lookout to spot incoming ships. To reach the summit of the 183m (600-ft.) hill we’ll walk for 20 minutes on an 800 meters cobblestone road that crosses the natural preserve area kept by the Brazilian Army.

Several species of the Brazilian fauna live in the area. It is not uncommon to spot mamorset monkeys, tropical birds and lizards on the way up.

Once we reach the summit, a series of spectacular views will be discovered. From the hill top we’ll have a vantage point of view of the entire extension of Copacabana Beach, Corcovado Mountain, Sugarloaf Mountain and the entrance of Guanabara Bay.

13

Most definitively the best spot to take a picture of Copacabana Beach.

14
Stop 14 Pass by

One of the nicest areas in Rio this tidal lagoon connects with the sea and it is surrounded by a bike lane.

15
Stop 15 Pass by

The garden was created in 1808 by order of the Portuguese prince Dom João VI as a temporary site for acclimatizing exotic plant species from all over the world broth there by the Portuguese. During the walk we will also be able to see the majestic imperial palm trees and the orchid and Bromeliad greenhouses.
Rio’s Botanic Garden is also one of the best spots to observe the city wildlife, such as capuchin and marmosets monkeys, toucans, red throated guan and several other animal species.

16

Tijuca Forest is the largest reforested urban forest in the world. The forest takes 10% of the city area and houses the Tijuca National Park.

17
Stop 17

Erected to celebrate 100 years of Chinese immigration to Brazil, the pagoda is surrounded by tropical forest and offers a spectacular sight of the South part of the city.

We will reach the monument by driving up 15 minutes on a winding asphalt road through Tijuca National Park and pass a couple of waterfalls on the way.

It is not unusual to observe Capuchin and Marmoset monkeys over here.

After the Chinese Pagoda we’ll drive to Dona Marta viewpoint for yet another breathtaking view of Rio.

18
Stop 18 Pass by

Drive through this neighborhood that was once the home for most embassies in Brazil when Rio was the country capital.

19
Stop 19

Mirante Dona Marta offers one of the most incredible views of the city. From there you'll have a panoramic view that includes the Christ Monument, Sugarloaf Mountain, Maracana Stadium, Guanabara Bay and Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon.
Dona Marta is also the best spot to take the perfect picture of the Christ monument.
After leaving Dona Marta we'll drive to Parque das Ruinas in Santa Teresa district.

20
Stop 20 Pass by

This picturesque and well preserved colonial style area born in the mid-1800s is now an artsy neighborhood full of bars, cafés and good restaurants that offer a myriad food options including the best Acai and cheese bread in Rio.

The place offers great photo opportunities with its painted murals, street art, cobblestone streets and a variety of souvenirs shops, including the only one in Rio listed on Lonely Planet for having only items made by local artists.

21

Central part of Santa Teresa District.

22
Stop 22

Located in Santa Teresa and former home to a preeminent female art supporter, Parque das Ruínas is now a cultural center in the most authentic and picturesque district of Rio.

Out last stop on this tour is a lookout on the rooftop of this cultural center. The breathtaking view of downtown, Guanabara Bay Sugarloaf and Corcovado mountains is well worth the effort of climbing up the three flights of stairs.

23
Stop 23 Pass by

Also known as Arcos da Lapa the aqueduct used to supply the city with water from the rivers born at Tijuca Forest. Now it is used as a passageway for the tram that connects Downtown Rio and Santa Teresa neighborhoods.

24
Stop 24 Pass by

A very large park area crossed by an expressway.

What's not included

Meals or drinks (if any)

Available languages

Guide guide
PT EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0
3 reviews
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Tripadvisor 5.0
8 reviews
5★
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Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children must be accompanied by an adult
All tours are private and conducted in air conditioned vehicle.

Important notes

• Children must be accompanied by an adult
• Infant seats are available on request if advised at time of booking
• Meals or drinks are not included. 
• Tour is conducted in an air-conditioned vehicle driven by your tour guide.
 

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
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 13-120
1
Childs
Age 3-12
0
Infants
Age 0-2
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 10
  • Adult required for booking
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Free cancellation available
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