São Paulo , Brazil

Afro Sampa Walking Tour

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About this experience

Discover São Paulo in a whole new way with the Afro Sampa Experience, a deep dive into the city's rich Afro-Brazilian history and culture. This isn’t just a tour; it's an enlightening journey that takes you through iconic landmarks like the Mario de Andrade Library, Theatro Municipal, and the Igreja Nossa Senhora do Rosário dos Homens Pretos, where you’ll learn about the cultural and historical influence of the Afro-Brazilian community.

Explore Largo da Memória, a site dedicated to the memory of enslaved Black people, and Casa Preta Hub, a dynamic space empowering Black entrepreneurs. The tour ends at Educafro, an institution transforming lives by providing educational opportunities for Afro-Brazilian youth.

By joining this tour, you're not just learning about history—you’re supporting local Black initiatives and gaining a deeper connection to São Paulo’s Afro-Brazilian heritage. Book now for an unforgettable journey that will leave you with a new perspective on the city!

Available options

Afro Sampa Walking Tour

What's included

Entrance fee

Detailed itinerary

Begin the tour at the Mário de Andrade Library, a historic cornerstone of São Paulo's cultural identity. Learn about the contributions of modernist writer Mário de Andrade and his dedication to preserving Brazilian culture, including Afro-Brazilian traditions.

Highlight: The library's role in cultural preservation and the connection to Afro-Brazilian identity.

Stop 2

Head to the São Paulo Municipal Theater, a historical site for the founding of the Unified Black Movement (MNU) in 1978. Understand the significant role the theater played in the resistance against racism during the military dictatorship.
The story of how young Black individuals from the periphery shaped cultural movements despite economic and racial barriers.

Explore the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary of Black Men, one of São Paulo’s oldest Black brotherhoods. Discover how this site was crucial for mutual aid, Black resistance, and the preservation of Afro-Brazilian religious traditions.
The role of the church in offering sanctuary to the enslaved and in the religious syncretism that emerged.

It was a place of suffering for enslaved Africans who were stripped of their heritage and forced into a brutal system of slavery. It's a key place of remembrance in São Paulo, where the city's history of Black oppression is acknowledged.

Stop 5

Visit the Casa Preta Hub, a collaborative space for Black entrepreneurs. Learn about its impact in empowering Black entrepreneurs and preserving Afro-Brazilian culture through art, business, and culture.
Casa Preta’s role in fostering creative and economic opportunities for the Black community.

Stop 6

Educafro is a non-governmental organization founded by Frei David dos Santos, dedicated to combating racial discrimination and promoting educational inclusion for Black and low-income populations in Brazil. Its mission is to support access to public and private universities through scholarships, preparatory courses, and psychological support. Educafro also advocates for affirmative policies like racial quotas and promotes ethnic diversity in the job market. The organization’s approach combines academic content with citizenship training, anti-racist education, and the promotion of Afro-Brazilian culture and Black identity.

What's not included

Meals

Available languages

Guide guide

PT EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.0

1 reviews

5★

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Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Main entrance of Mario de Andrade's Library, a historic cornerstone of São Paulo's cultural identity. Learn about the contributions of modernist writer Mário de Andrade and his dedication to preserving Brazilian culture, including Afro-Brazilian traditions.

Important notes

• Meeting Point: In front of "Mario de Andrade Library" on Consolação Street nº 94 - Republica, São Paulo.

• Reference point: It's a walkable distance from the subway / metro stations "Anhangabau" or "Republica" part of red/yellow line.

• Meet the guide at the designated meeting point at least 10 minutes prior the scheduled time.

• Departure time: 9:00AM

• In the very unlikely situation that the customer is not able to locate our guide, please call our emergency telephone number on the voucher.

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EMERGENCY CONTACT

In the unlikely event that you are unable to locate the driver, please contact us immediately at the numbers below:

• +55 (11) 2157-1629

About São Paulo

São Paulo is a vibrant, cosmopolitan city known for its dynamic culture, diverse cuisine, and bustling urban life. As Brazil's financial and cultural hub, it offers a unique blend of modern skyscrapers, historic landmarks, and lush parks, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a mix of excitement and relaxation.

Top Attractions

Ibirapuera Park

Ibirapuera Park is São Paulo's most famous green space, offering a vast area for recreation, cultural events, and relaxation. It's a great place for picnics, jogging, and enjoying outdoor activities.

Nature 2-4 hours Free (some attractions may have entry fees)

São Paulo Museum of Art (MASP)

MASP is one of the most important art museums in Brazil, housing a vast collection of European and Brazilian art. The museum's iconic modernist building is a landmark in itself.

Museum 2-3 hours R$ 70 (USD 14) for general admission

São Paulo Cathedral

The São Paulo Cathedral is a stunning example of Neo-Gothic architecture and one of the city's most iconic landmarks. The cathedral's towering spires and intricate details make it a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (donations welcome)

Mercado Municipal

Mercado Municipal is a bustling market offering a wide variety of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and local delicacies. It's a great place to sample São Paulo's diverse culinary scene and shop for souvenirs.

Market 1-2 hours Free entry, prices vary by item

Jardim Botânico

Jardim Botânico is a beautiful botanical garden featuring a diverse collection of plants, trees, and flowers. The garden's peaceful atmosphere and scenic paths make it a perfect escape from the city's hustle and bustle.

Nature 1-2 hours R$ 7 (USD 1.40) for general admission

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pão de Queijo

Delicious cheese bread made with tapioca flour, originating from Minas Gerais but popular throughout Brazil.

Snack Gluten-free, contains dairy

Feijoada

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

Dinner Contains pork and beans, can be made vegetarian

Acarajé

Deep-fried black-eyed pea fritters stuffed with shrimp, vatapá (a spicy paste), and salad, originating from Bahia but popular in São Paulo.

Snack Contains shrimp and peanuts, gluten-free

Pastel

Crispy fried pastry pockets filled with various savory ingredients, such as cheese, meat, or hearts of palm.

Snack Can be made vegetarian or vegan

Popular Activities

Hiking in nearby nature reserves Water sports at Santos Beach Exploring the city's street art and graffiti scene Relaxing in Ibirapuera Park Enjoying a traditional Brazilian massage Visiting a local café or spa Visiting museums and galleries Attending local festivals and events

Best Time to Visit

April to June and September to November

These months offer pleasant weather with lower humidity and less rain, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

18-28°C (64-82°F) 64-82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Portuguese
Widely spoken: English, Spanish, Italian, Japanese
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other parts of the city

Currency

Brazilian Real (BRL)

Time Zone

GMT-3 (Brasília Time, BRT)

Electricity

110-127V and 220V (varies by region and establishment)V, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

São Paulo is a vibrant and exciting city, but it also has its share of safety concerns. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, is common in crowded areas and on public transport. Violent crime, including robbery and assault, can occur, especially in certain neighborhoods and at night. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, especially when traveling alone or at night.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables secure and out of sight
• Avoid walking alone in isolated or unfamiliar neighborhoods, especially at night
• Use reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps like Uber, and avoid unmarked or unlicensed taxis

Getting there

By air

São Paulo/Guarulhos International Airport • 25 km (15.5 miles) from city center
São Paulo/Congonhas Airport • 10 km (6.2 miles) from city center

By train

Estação da Luz, Estação da Sé

By bus

Terminal Tietê, Terminal Jabaquara

Getting around

Public transport

The metro is efficient, clean, and air-conditioned, making it the preferred mode of transport for locals and tourists alike.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, 99 Taxis

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Jardins Vila Madalena Liberdade Pinheiros Santa Cecilia

Day trips

Campinas

95 km (59 miles) from São Paulo • Full day

Campinas is a vibrant city known for its universities, cultural attractions, and proximity to nature. It's a great destination for a day trip from São Paulo, offering a mix of urban and outdoor activities.

Santos

75 km (47 miles) from São Paulo • Full day

Santos is a popular beach destination known for its beautiful coastline, historic landmarks, and vibrant cultural scene. It's a great escape from the city for a relaxing day by the sea.

Paraty

250 km (155 miles) from São Paulo • Overnight

Paraty is a charming colonial town known for its historic architecture, beautiful beaches, and lush rainforests. It's a great destination for a longer day trip or overnight stay from São Paulo.

Festivals

Carnival • February or March (varies by year) São Paulo Fashion Week • July and October Virada Cultural • May (specific dates vary by year)

Pro tips

Use the metro or bus to get around the city, as traffic can be heavy and unpredictable
Be cautious of pickpockets and bag snatchers, especially in crowded areas and on public transport
Learn a few basic Portuguese phrases, as this will be appreciated by locals and can enhance your travel experience
Try the local street food and cuisine, as São Paulo is known for its diverse and flavorful food scene
Visit the city's museums and cultural attractions, as São Paulo has a rich and vibrant artistic scene