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Rio de JaneiroOutdoor activities

Our most recommended Rio de Janeiro 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.

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

2. 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 the lunch break. We have a typical Brazilian steakhouse lunch option if you wish to include it, but remember to choose the "Christ the Redeemer by Van, Sugarloaf, Selaron, BBQ Lunch" or "Christ the Redeemer by Train, Sugarloaf, Selaron, BBQ Lunch" option for a complete experience. After lunch, visit Sugarloaf (ticket included and not included option). Take the cable car to the top in two stages and see one of the most iconic natural landmarks in Rio.

Rio: Christ the Redeemer Official Ticket by Cog Train

3. 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 de Janeiro: Sugarloaf Cable Car Official Ticket

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

5. 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.

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.

From Rio: Arraial do Cabo Day Trip with Boat Tour

7. From Rio: Arraial do Cabo Day Trip with Boat Tour

Begin your 12-hour tour through paradise with a drive from Rio de Janeiro to the region of the Costa do Sol (Sun Coast). When you arrive in Arraial do Cabo, hop aboard a majestic schooner to sail through the warm, clear waters of what’s often called the Brazilian Caribbean. Gliding through the sea, you’ll make a 40-minute stop to swim and snorkel near the Ilha do Farol, a peninsula famous for its lighthouse, and Prainhas do Pontal, a coastal zone flanked by towering cliffs and verdant mountains. Continuing on your boat tour, you’ll stop for photos at the Gruta Azul, a grotto known for its shockingly-azure waters, and the Fenda de Nossa Senhora, where a statue of a saint is placed between a massive rift in between 2 cliffs. To cap off your boat tour, you’ll enjoy another 20-minute stop at one of the region’s most famous beaches, the Praia do Forno. After swimming and relaxing on the boat, we will have the lunch break. We have the option of an authentic lunch at a local restaurant, should you wish to include it, please be mindful to choose the "with lunch" option and enjoy a full experience. Then re-board your transportation to Rio, arriving back in time for dinner.

Rio de Janeiro: Hang Gliding Tandem Flight

8. Rio de Janeiro: Hang Gliding Tandem Flight

Benefit from pickup from your hotel, São Conrado Subway station, or make your own way to the Brazilian Confederation of Hang Gliding headquarters to meet your instructor.  Then take a 15-minute jeep ride into Tijuca National Park, arriving at the Pedra Bonita Ramp, 1,700 feet (520 meters) above sea level. After a safety briefing and a rehearsal, it's time for takeoff. Take the leap and experience incredible views of the Atlantic Ocean, Rio’s famous beaches, the statue of Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf Mountain, Guanabara Bay and much more.  Your tandem flight ends with a smooth landing on the beach at São Conrado and the entire adventure will be captured by GoPro cameras attached to the wing. Enjoy an unforgettable sightseeing experience in Rio de Janeiro.

Rio: Maracanã Stadium Live Football Match Ticket & Transport

9. Rio: Maracanã Stadium Live Football Match Ticket & Transport

Experience a live football match at the iconic Maracanã stadium, guided by an expert bilingual escort dedicated to ensuring you have both a thrilling and secure outing. Embrace the fervor that binds Brazilians as you cheer and sing in unison with thousands of enthusiastic fans. The Maracanã is a melting pot, where Brazilians from diverse backgrounds converge, united by an indomitable love for their teams. While the allure of the match is undeniable, navigating your way to the stadium can be daunting. Our meticulous planning ensures you can relish the experience seamlessly, with guidance every step of the way, ensuring you remain in sync with the event's tempo. Starting our journey from the Ipanema neighborhood, we'll private transport heading straight to the stadium. As you step into the Maracanã, be instantly captivated by the electrifying ambiance, the collective euphoria of fans, the live on-field drama, and the infectious spirit of participating in activities like "the wave". This immersive experience grants you the privilege of witnessing matches between Brazil's football powerhouses, Flamengo and Fluminense. These rival clubs not only play pivotal national and international matches at Maracanã but also share the honor of managing this iconic venue. Join local supporters, belt out the anthems, wave the flags, and root for the athletes. Along the way, you'll be regaled with tales of past legends and potential future stars of this hallowed turf.

Tijuca Rain Forest Tour by Jeep from Rio de Janeiro

10. Tijuca Rain Forest Tour by Jeep from Rio de Janeiro

Venture into the Tijuca Rain Forest in an open jeep and discover a tropical forest in a large city. Drive past the "Cachoeira dos macacos" (monkey's waterfall) and learn about the importance of the reforestation process of the "Mata Atlântica" (Atlantic Forest) at "Vista Chinesa" (Chinese view). Tijuca National Park is the largest city-surrounded urban forest and the second largest urban forest in the world. Photo opportunities abound as you pass the "Mesa do Imperador" (Emperor's table), Cascatinha (Taunay's waterfall), and Capela Mayrink (Mayrink Chapel). Continue with a 1-hour hike on an easy trail to learn more about and have direct interaction with the flora and fauna of this unique ecosystem. This tour is highlighted by the variety of tropical fruits, trees, monkeys, and the multitude of birds and butterflies that live in this unique forest.

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Other Sightseeing Options in Rio de Janeiro

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What people are saying about Rio de Janeiro

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!