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Rio de Janeiro (State) Outdoor activities

Our most recommended Rio de Janeiro (State) Outdoor activities

Rio de Janeiro: 6-Stop Highlights of Rio with Lunch

1. Rio de Janeiro: 6-Stop Highlights of Rio with Lunch

Start your adventure with a pickup in the morning from hotels located in the South Zone and head towards your first stop at Christ the Redeemer.  Enjoy great jungle views in the minivan ride through the Tijuca Forest that surrounds the Corcovado Mountain. Reach the peak of the mountain and meet the statue of the Christ the Redeemer with its arms right open over the city. Admire the sweeping views and take breathtaking pictures. Head to a nice walk outside the Maracanã Stadium and find out more about the passion of the Brazilians for football. Learn about the samba tradition in Rio by visiting the Sambadrome, the place with the biggest Carnival parade on the planet. Marvel at the beautiful street art of the Selarón Steps, a gigantic mosaic work of the Chilean artist Jorge Selarón. He started dedicating himself to decorate the stairs in the early 90s. The 250 steps have become a monument and an icon of Rio. Stop at the Metropolitan Cathedral of Rio de Janeiro to revel at the biblical passages on the stained-glass inside it, following a stop for lunch in an all-you-can-eat buffet restaurant. With the batteries recharged, there is still one place left.  Head to Urca neighborhood and marvel at the beauty of the Sugarloaf Mountain and be amazed by the cable ride to the top. From 220 meters above sea level take in the breathtaking 360-degree view of Rio de Janeiro, Guanabara Bay, the city of Niteroi, and the blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean.

From Rio de Janeiro: Angra dos Reis Boat Trip with Lunch

2. From Rio de Janeiro: Angra dos Reis Boat Trip with Lunch

Visit the islands of Angra do Reis on this boat trip from Rio de Janeiro. Sail through the archipelago of Ilha Grande. Disembark on the small islands to explore the beaches, browse the markets, and snorkel in the deep blue waters. Savor lunch on board and enjoy round-trip transfers from Rio hotels. Relax on the 3-hour drive to the city of Angra dos Reis. A quick pit-stop on the road will be made to use bathroom facilities and buy a snack. Upon arrival in the docks, enjoy a schooner ride through the hundreds of islands of Angra dos Reis.  Marvel at the beauty of the most famous island of it all: Ilha Grande. Revel at the crystal clear water and rent a snorkel on the spot to see the different species of fish. After, devour the buffet lunch in a fishermen’s village. Explore different stops during the day in places such as the Blue Lagoon, Cataguases beach, and Japariz or Araçá beaches. The captain will choose the best spots depending on crowds and weather conditions.

Rio de Janeiro: Sugarloaf Cable Car Official Ticket

3. Rio de Janeiro: Sugarloaf Cable Car Official Ticket

Discover the world-famous Sugarloaf Mountain with prebooked official tickets for the cable car, and explore one of Brazil's most popular attractions. Admire stunning views of Rio de Janeiro as you ride the cable car to the summit. Take incredible photos from the lookout point as you enjoy the panorama of the city and the ocean below. Make your own way to the foot of Sugarloaf Mountain, and head directly to the ticket office to exchange your printed voucher. Board the next cable car up the mountain, riding in the fully-enclosed cabin as you take in panoramic views of the city, Copacabana Beach, and Guanabara Bay.  Disembark at the top, where you can spend as much time as you wish. There is a food court and restaurant at the summit where you can purchase snacks and drinks. Once you have finished exploring the summit, your ticket is valid for any returning cable car.

Rio: Christ the Redeemer Official Ticket by Cog Train

4. Rio: Christ the Redeemer Official Ticket by Cog Train

Go all the way up to the iconic statue of Christ the Redeemer by the Corcovado Train. The train rides through a railway inside Tijuca National Park, the largest urban forest in the world, making a unique view over Rio de Janeiro city. Enjoy an amazing ride on a train that takes you right up to the foot of the statue of The Christ, one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World and one of the most famous sights in Brazil. Besides admiring one of the most beautiful landscapes of the city, you will take a walk through Brazil's history. The Corcovado Railroad was the first electrified railroad in Brazil. Inaugurated in 1884 by D. Pedro II, it is older than Christ the Redeemer itself. In fact, it was the train that, during four consecutive years, transported pieces for monument’s construction. Your visit starts on the century-old electric locomotive, riding across the preserved Atlantic Forest, part of the Tijuca National Park. At the foot of the statue of Christ, you'll be able to take in the most beautiful view over the city, and see from above what makes Rio de Janeiro so special.

Rio: Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf, Selaron & BBQ Lunch

5. Rio: Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf, Selaron & BBQ Lunch

Discover the landmarks of Rio on a full-day guided tour, including pickup and drop off at hotels in Rio. Start with a visit to Corcovado Mountain. Ride by van to the top or board the train, both through the Tijuca Forest. Then, marvel at the main monument of Brazil, the statue of Christ the Redeemer, as you take in panoramic views of Rio. Next, head towards the mythical Maracanã football stadium and observe its imposing façade. Continue to the legendary Sambódromo where the annual Carnival parade takes place. Visit the modern Metropolitan Cathedral of Rio de Janeiro, influenced by Mayan pyramids. Check out the brightly colored tiles of the world-famous Selarón Steps at Lapa, before enjoying a typical Brazilian steakhouse lunch. After lunch, visit Sugar Loaf. Take the cable car to the top in two stages and see one of the most iconic natural landmarks in Rio.

Rio De Janeiro: Half-Day Rocinha Favela Walking Tour

6. Rio De Janeiro: Half-Day Rocinha Favela Walking Tour

Explore Rio’s largest favela on a half-day walking tour of Rocinha, the largest favela (shantytown) in South America. Organized by local, English speaking guides and favela hosts, the walking tour is respectful and non-intrusive to the residents. Subject of the movie "City of God," Rio’s favelas have fallen victim to unfortunate stereotypes. In order to correct this, and show you the true Rio de Janeiro, the favela tour will let you see and experience how daily life happens away from the sensationalist headlines. While other favela “zoo-tours” drive around in jeeps, you will get to walk the streets in small groups and meet the locals to hear their stories. Learn the history of the favela and its social and economic challenges. The tour cost also includes a monetary contribution to the favela community.

Rio de Janeiro: Favela Santa Marta Tour with a Local Guide

7. Rio de Janeiro: Favela Santa Marta Tour with a Local Guide

Take an opportunity to catch a glimpse of life in the favelas on this guided tour. Your guide is a local from Santa Marta, who will be able to share you with you an authentic perspective of the beautiful favela they call home. Using the Santa Marta cable car, your guide will take you to the top of the favela. From here you will get to witness one of the best panoramic views of the city. Spot Christ the Redeemer, the Sugar Loaf, Praia de Botafogo, Lagoa Rodrigues de Freitas and the entire district of Botafogo. Then explore the streets and alleys held dear by both residents and the many famous visitors to Favela Santa Marta alike, from Queen Elizabeth II to Michael Jackson. Stroll through the favela, seeing the best sights and stopping at many of the local artisan shops along the way.

Football Match in Rio

8. Football Match in Rio

Nowhere on the planet is the game of football more passionately loved than in Brazil. Get a feel for the importance of football to ordinary Brazilians by taking in a thrilling match. A match in any of Rio's Stadiums is an exciting experience even for those with only a passing interest in football. The atmosphere in the stadium is alive with fans waving huge silk banners and flags whilst setting off flares and fireworks. Chants and samba drums reverberate through the stadium as vendors climb through the crowds selling cold beers, popcorn, hats, scarves, and headbands. Experience the fevered frenzy of Brazilian football and join the thousands of colorful, joyous fans, playing music, singing, and jumping throughout the match. Rio's passion for football makes every game a game to remember. Matches take place on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. 2023 Schedule: March 13, 9:10 PM: Flamengo x Vasco da Gama Semifinal 2 - Game 1 March 18, 4 PM: Fluminense x Volta Redonda - Semifinal 1 - Game 2 March 19, 6 PM Vasco da Gama x Flamengo - Semifinal 2 - Game 2 April 2, 6 PM: TBD x TBD Carioca Championship Finals - Game 1 April 9, 6 PM: TBD x TBD Carioca Championship Finals - Game 2

From Ilha Grande: Shared Transfer to Rio de Janeiro

9. From Ilha Grande: Shared Transfer to Rio de Janeiro

- Shared Transfer DOOR-TO-DOOR from Ilha Grande to Rio de Janeiro. Shared transfer means you’re booking a seat on a vehicle, and will likely be sharing with others. - Fast Boat from Ilha Grande (Vila do Abraão) to Angra dos Reis. Passengers must arrive at the Pier 20 minutes before boarding time. The guide will identify all passengers, put on the wristband and direct them to the Top line at the main Pier in Vila do Abraão. FlexBoats have inflatable tubes along the sides of the boat and a solid fiberglass hull. The hydrodynamics of this combination allows us to offer fast and safe boat crossings to Ilha Grande while at the same time a smooth ride. The boat crossing takes up to 40 minutos. When disembarking from the boat, the driver will pick you up and direct you to the van that will be stopped in front of the Pier. - From Angra dos Reis, you will be driven 2 hours and a a half to Rio de Janeiro . Your ETA - Estimated Time of Arrival - depends on your final destination, and the route that will be taken to drop other passengers. In Rio de Janeiro, you will be dropped off at your hotel, accommodation or airport. - Daily departures.

From Búzios: Arraial do Cabo and Cabo Frio Day Trip

10. From Búzios: Arraial do Cabo and Cabo Frio Day Trip

After a 1-hour bus ride from Búzios, arrive at Arraial do Cabo. Board a boat and set sail through the crystal-clear waters. See places such as Lighthouse Island, Crevice of Our Lady of Assumption, Gorilla Rock, Blue Grotto, Pontal do Atalaia, and Forno Beach.  Stop for a swim at 3 stunning spots. Then, disembark and enjoy lunch at a buffet restaurant, with drinks and dessert at your own expense. After lunch, embark on a city tour through Cabo Frio, a 500-year-old town. Get to know historical spots like São Matheus Fort and the beautiful Passagem neighborhood. Take in views of the exquisite landscape and the mighty sea.

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What people are saying about Rio de Janeiro (State)

José was excellent guide! He shown us the favela, we felt secure and it was a massive experience for us! Rio looks wonderful from Santa Marta. It is absolutely worth seeing. And very important issue: remember about the dignity of these poor people. It is not a show, it is not the zoo, this is the real life. Respect these people, listen to the guide, respect the rules and you will have a wonderful experience. 100% satisfied

Felipe was a very knowledgeable guide, who explained in detail the sociopolitical origins of Favelas. This tour was probably the most meaningful and insightful part of my visit to Rio, as the propagandists obscure the brutal inequality/racism endemic in modern day Brazil.

Very good!! Carlos provided great information, what to expect of the tour, history behind favela’s and really appreciated his enthusiasm…and Bruno was very helpful too…. Really good to walk around the place and understand their community. Highly recommend this tour!

Mauricio was super smooth, seemed like one of the best gliders. He gave me clear simple instructions and we had a great flight. Very freeing. The only bad part was how short the flight itself was, under 10 minutes.

Amazing tour. We had a lovely day and saw everything we wanted to see. Very well organized and loved our guide Lavina. Lunch was very good as well, thanks!