Rio de Janeiro is a city filled with energy! The samba rhythms fill the streets and the breathtaking mountains stretch to touch the famous beaches below. At the heart of this vibrant city is Carnival, an annual celebration filled with sequins and parades that showcases Brazil’s heritage, artistry, and rich culture. Here are some must-do activities for any visitor:
1. Hang Gliding Over Pedra Bonita
For the ultimate thrill, take to the skies with a tandem hang-gliding flight from Pedra Bonita in Tijuca National Park. Soaring over lush mountains and the endless blue of the Atlantic, you’ll get a view of Rio that few ever experience. Flights last around 10-20 minutes and land on São Conrado Beach—giving you the perfect excuse for a post-flight caipirinha!
Know Before You Go:
Cost: $150-$200 USD
Location: São Conrado, launching from Pedra Bonita
Time Required: 2-3 hours (including briefing and wait time)
2. Helicopter Tour Over the City
If you’d rather see the city from above without jumping off a cliff, a helicopter ride offers an unbeatable perspective. Fly past the Christ the Redeemer statue, circle Sugarloaf Mountain, and marvel at Copacabana and Ipanema beaches from the sky. Whether at sunrise or sunset, the views are absolutely unreal.
Know Before You Go:
Cost: $200-$400 USD (varies by flight duration)
Location: Various heliports, including Jacarepaguá and Sugarloaf
Time Required: 20-45 minutes
3. Christ the Redeemer
Standing at 98 feet tall atop Corcovado Mountain, Christ the Redeemer (Cristo Redentor) is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world. Completed in 1931, the statue was designed by Brazilian engineer Heitor da Silva Costa and sculpted by French artist Paul Landowski as a symbol of peace and faith. In 2007, it was named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, cementing its status as a global icon.
There are several ways to reach the summit: the classic train ride through Tijuca National Park, shuttle vans departing from various points in the city, or for the adventurous, a scenic hike from Parque Lage. The hiking route, about 2.5 miles long with a 2,300-foot elevation gain, takes you through lush rainforest, offering a rewarding challenge before reaching the panoramic views at the top. However, due to occasional safety concerns, it’s best to go with a guide or a group.
Know Before You Go:
Cost: $20-$30 USD for train or van, free for the hike (entrance fee at the top applies)
Location: Corcovado Mountain, Tijuca National Park
Time Required: 2-3 hours (hiking), 1 hour (train or van)
4. Sugarloaf Mountain
One of Rio’s most iconic landmarks, Sugarloaf Mountain (Pão de Açúcar) offers some of the best panoramic views of the city. Take the two-stage cable car up to the summit, where you can watch the sun sink behind the mountains while the city lights begin to twinkle. There are a few trails around the top of the mountain leading to excellent lookout points over the beaches and the city. They also have a selection of small restaurants at the top which is the perfect place to enjoy a bowl of acai.
Know Before You Go:
Cost: $30 USD round-trip
Location: Urca neighborhood
Time Required: 2-3 hours
5. Parque Lage: A Hidden Oasis Beneath Christ the Redeemer
Escape the city’s bustle at Parque Lage, a historic mansion and garden nestled at the base of Corcovado Mountain. This former estate-turned-public park is famous for its picturesque courtyard café, rainforest walking trails, and hidden grottoes. It’s a peaceful retreat with incredible views of Christ the Redeemer looming above.
Know Before You Go:
Cost: Free
Location: Jardim Botânico, Rio de Janeiro
Time Required: 1-2 hours
6. Sailing to Angra dos Reis & Ilha Grande
For an unforgettable escape from the city, sail through the crystal-clear waters of Angra dos Reis and Ilha Grande. This island paradise, located a few hours from Rio, is home to over 300 islands, hidden beaches, and incredible snorkeling spots. A boat tour will take you to places like Lagoa Azul (Blue Lagoon), known for its tropical fish, and Praia do Dentista, a stunning white-sand beach.
Know Before You Go:
Cost: $50-$150 USD (varies by tour type)
Location: Departs from Angra dos Reis or Ilha Grande but pickups are offered around Rio
Time Required: Full day (or overnight stay on Ilha Grande)
7. Escadaria Selarón: Rio’s Most Colorful Landmark
A masterpiece of mosaic art, Escadaria Selarón is a must-visit in Rio. Created by Chilean artist Jorge Selarón, the staircase is covered in over 2,000 hand-painted tiles from around the world. Connecting the neighborhoods of Lapa and Santa Teresa, it’s a vibrant tribute to Brazilian culture and one of the city’s most Instagrammable spots.
Know Before You Go:
Cost: Free
Location: Rua Manuel Carneiro, Lapa
Time Required: 30-45 minutes
8. Ipanema & Copacabana: Rio’s Legendary Beaches
Whether you want to relax on golden sands or dive into Rio’s famous beach culture, Ipanema and Copacabana are the city’s most iconic stretches of coastline.
• Ipanema Beach is known for its trendy beach crowd, surf-friendly waves, and epic sunsets at Arpoador Rock. Different lifeguard stations (postos) cater to different crowds—Posto 9 is the place to see and be seen.
• Copacabana Beach is classic Rio—a lively boardwalk, beachfront bars, and historic charm with views of Sugarloaf Mountain.
Know Before You Go:
Cost: Free (chair and umbrella rentals ~$5 USD)
Location: Zona Sul, Rio de Janeiro
Time Required: As long as you want
9. Carnival in Rio: The World’s Biggest Party
Rio’s Carnival is more than just a festival—it’s a city-wide explosion of music, dance, and color. The highlight is the Sambadrome Parade, where samba schools compete in dazzling performances with elaborate floats and costumes. Beyond the parade, the streets come alive with blocos, or themed street parties, ranging from massive celebrations with live bands to intimate gatherings in historic neighborhoods. Read more on Carnival here.
Know Before You Go:
Cost: Blocos are free; Sambadrome tickets range from $20-$300+ USD
Location: Throughout Rio (Sambadrome in Cidade Nova)
Time Required: Carnival lasts five days, but blocos start weeks earlier
10. Samba Classes: Learn to Dance Like a Local
Samba is the heartbeat of Rio, and there’s no better way to immerse yourself in the city’s culture than by learning its most famous dance. Whether you’re a complete beginner or already have rhythm, taking a samba class will give you a deeper appreciation for the energy and passion that fuels Carnival. Many dance studios and clubs offer group or private lessons, often followed by a night out at a live samba club where you can put your new moves to the test.
Know Before You Go:
Cost: $15-$40 USD per class
Location: Various studios, including Centro, Lapa, and Copacabana
Time Required: 1-2 hours
Bonus: Must-Try Food & Drinks in Rio
Brazilian cuisine is a delicious mix of flavors, and Rio is the perfect place to indulge. Here are the top dishes and drinks you can’t miss:
Food:
• Feijoada – A rich black bean stew with pork, traditionally served on Saturdays.
• Pão de Queijo – Chewy, cheesy bread balls that are addictively good.
• Açaí Bowl – A refreshing, antioxidant-packed treat, often topped with granola and banana.
• Churrasco – Brazilian-style barbecue with juicy cuts of meat grilled to perfection.
Drinks:
• Caipirinha – Brazil’s national cocktail, made with cachaça, lime, sugar, and ice.
• Guaraná Soda – A sweet, slightly fruity soda made from the Amazonian guaraná berry.
• Coconut Water – Best enjoyed straight from a fresh coconut on the beach.
