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Things to do in Favela Rocinha

Our most recommended things to do in Favela Rocinha

Rio De Janeiro: Half-Day Rocinha Favela Walking Tour

1. 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: Rocinha Favela Walking Tour with Local Guide

2. Rio de Janeiro: Rocinha Favela Walking Tour with Local Guide

Explore a favela of Rio de Janeiro on this guided walking tour. Immerse yourself in the daily lives of locals on this tour that is focused on education. Get a different perspective on life in Rio de Janeiro, and benefit from insider tips from a local guide. Start your favela tour with a pickup from one of the meeting points in Copacabana or Ipanema beach. Journey to the Rocinha Favela for the start of a walking tour at approximately in the afternoon. Follow your local guide through the favela and learn more about what it is like to live there. Rio's favelas are a big part of city life and the non-intrusive tour aims to educate you in a way that pays respect to the locals. Give back to the locals as part of the cost of your tour is contributed to the community to help them build a better future.

Rio de Janeiro: Rocinha Favela Guided Walking Tour

3. Rio de Janeiro: Rocinha Favela Guided Walking Tour

Experience authentic living in Rio de Janeiro, on a guided tour of Rocinha. Appreciate local culture and a completely unique way of life in a city plagued by hardship and neglect. See how citizens use art, music, and community to create a positive atmosphere in this special Brazilian neighborhood. Follow your local guide to feel a sense of belonging in this tightly knit area. Learn about generational stories from residents, how they care for their home and their people. Discover street art decorating the buildings that cover the hillside, and grab a snack from one of many local vendors. Admire gorgeous views of the cityscape as you climb the high streets, and see as far as Christ the Redeemer. Notice the respect and kindness that locals have for each other and for tourists so they can protect and develop their beloved community.

Rio de Janeiro: 30 or 60-Minute Highlights Helicopter Tour

4. Rio de Janeiro: 30 or 60-Minute Highlights Helicopter Tour

For the 30-minute helicopter sightseeing flight, experience the spectacular sights of Rio de Janeiro from the sky. As you take off from the airport located near the Olympic center, head upwards and fly towards the shores of Barra da Tijuca. The captain will take you along the shoreline over Rio’s fabulous beaches of Barra da Tijuca, Joatinga, São Conrado, Leblon, Ipanema, and Copacabana.  Next, see highlights of the city, which include Sugarloaf Mountain and the impressive Christ the Redeemer statue, standing atop Corcovado Mountain. Enjoy plenty of opportunities to take unique photos while hovering in the sky. Alternatively, upgrade your tour to the 60-minute tour, which is the same as the 30-minute tour but also includes flying over the Modern Museum of Art of Niterói, Santos Dumont Airport, Downtown Rio, Maracanã Stadium, Tijuca Forest, and more. Book your flight during the day, at sunset or in the evening up until 8 PM..

Other Sightseeing Options in Favela Rocinha

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What people are saying about Favela Rocinha

Overall rating

4.7 / 5

based on 1,153 reviews

At first I felt a bit uncomfortable with the idea of the favelas as a tourist attraction. But I am so glad I went. It was a unique experience and we were made feel very welcome and safe. I think it is good to see how a large part of the population in Rio lives. They live in poor and difficult conditions but I was impressed with the sense of community there is. I think visiting is a must and definitely wortwhile.

Our tour at favela rocinha was a unique experience. Our guide was a local girl. Her name was Juraca and she was very kind and friendly. She new everything about the favela and explained all details and answered all our questions. Juraca thank u! I highly recommend this tour to everyone who visit Rio. Maybe the most breathtaking experience I ever had on my trips all over the world.

We were a little weary before this trip. However, Martin our tour guide did a brilliant job. We felt super safe at all times as Martin was extremely knowledgeable and knew all of the local people. Amazing value for money and possibly the best part of our Rio trip. Would definitely recommend to anyone thinking about it.

Recommended. Very interesting; a unique opportunity to discover the favelas from the inside in total safety. You will always feel safe. The guide is originally from there, speaks perfect English and will answer all questions.

The tour guide shared a lot of inofrmation about the tour.