Brazil – Rio de Janeiro

There is a huge fascination with Rio de Janeiro the world over. But it’s a real “city of contrasts”: natural wonders and beaches mixed up with a complex urban life. The jaw-dropping beauty of the landscape with rainforest-covered mountains, postcard-perfect views, occasionally stunning architecture and, of course, the golden beaches. But to be honest, I was kind of disappointed about the ambiance: not as festive and welcoming as I thought and the favelas close by do give an unsafe feeling. Still, the city is a must in Brazil.

 

Lapa and Escadaria Selarón

Escadaria Selarón, also known as the ‘Selaron Steps’, is a set of world-famous steps in Rio. They are the work of Chilean artist Jorge Selarón who claimed it was his tribute to the Brazilian people. Running from Joaquim Silva street and Pinto Martins street, officially known as Manuel Carneiro street, the steps straddle the Lapa and Santa Teresa neighbourhoods.

You can walk around the Lapa neighborhood and see some street art. I do recommend stopping at a few food vendors and trying the açai or churros. Exquisite…

Cristo Redentor (Christ the Redeemer)

As one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Christ the Redeemer is already on a lot of people’s bucket lists. The very existence of the huge statue is impressive in itself: it stands at 38 metres high with pedestal (smaller than I expected..) on top of the 700m Corcovado Mountain covered in dense forest in Tijuca National Park and is the most famous attraction in Rio de Janeiro. It was created by the French sculptor Paul Landowski and built by the Brazilian engineer Heitor da Silva Costa, in collaboration with the French engineer Albert Caquot. As well as the imposing statue, you get to take in the amazing views over Rio de Janeiro, stretching across to the ocean.

There are three ways to get to the top: by train through the forest, hiking, or taking a van. As I rented a car, I just drove up there. It was nice making a few stops for the views. Don’t be fooled by the fake tour guides downhill telling you you have to hire one to have access, it’s not true! You can park your car but you’ll have to take a van the last part (included in the entrance free). Prices for the train and vans include round-trip transportation, plus admission to the statue, and vary between high and low season, ranging from 50-65 reales.

The view is beautiful but do expect LOADS of tourists. Some people may tell you it’s better to go super early or late to avoid the crowd but whatever time you choose, it’ll be packed. But you can’t really go to Rio without seing the Christ now can you?

Copacabana and Ipanema

The most famous beaches are Copacabana and Ipanema, and each one is different. Copacabana is a whirl of activities, families enjoying the sun, beach vendors selling food and souvenirs, and young people playing sports. Ipanema is more trendy, filled with a socializing body-conscious crowd. Cariocas will tell you that Ipanema’s vibrant atmosphere is the place to see and be seen, so it’s tailor made for people-watching. While sunbathing, you’ll observe wildly entertaining games of futevolei (the Brazilian version of volleyball without hands). Do not expect magnificent turquoise water beaches, though…

Pão de Açúcar (Sugar Loaf Mountain)

Standing high above the city, the Sugar Loaf Mountain cascades over the picturesque Guanabara Bay and offers panoramic views at the top are breathtaking, particularly at sunset. From Praia Vermelha, you can take a 3 min cable car ride up to Morro da Urca and then hop on another cable car up to the top of Sugar Loaf. From the glass-enclosed bondi (tram), you’ll get a dazzling view of the city.

A visit to Pão de Açúcar is a must, but, again, be prepared for heavy crowds. Tickets (62 reales from Praia Vermelha to Sugar Loaf) can be purchased from 8 am-7:50 pm, with the park closing at 9 pm.

Parque Nacional da Tijuca (Tijuca Rainforest)

The Tijuca is all that’s left of the Atlantic rainforest that once surrounded Rio de Janeiro.  Covering 8,300 acres, Tijuca National Park is the largest urban rainforest on the planet. It has an excellent, well-marked trail system and is a good change of scenery of the big city.

The park is open every day from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. (6 p.m. during the summer season). Admission is free, although you will have to pay to visit Christ the Redeemer.

I don’t have a lot of food recommendations for Rio as I ate a lot of street food, but I do strongly recommend Cervantes. They make the best filet mignon and pineapple sandwich. Sounds weird and I am not a fan of pineapple in my sandwiches, but this classic is unbelievable. And the meat was so tender, I still dream about it… Avenida Prado Júnior, 335, Loja B, Copacabana but there are additionnal locations.

Be very careful where you book your accommodation! Being too close to favelas will be very uncomfortable trust me.

If you have a few extra days, I would recommend going to Ilha Grande which is really close by and really worth the visit!