Rio de Janeiro
Exhilarating Rio de Janeiro, the vibrant South American destination and cultural capital, abounds with iconic landmarks, beaches, and attractions. Christ the Redeemer, the hundred-foot mosaic statue atop Corcovado Mountain, overlooks the glittering coastline and is instantly recognizable, having become an enduring symbol of the city itself. Its arms stretching wide, the prominent figure beckons you to explore this inviting locale.
A visit to Rio won’t be complete without a day spent sunbathing on one of its many local beaches. Copacabana Beach and Ipanema Beach, legendary seaside getaways with white sands and brilliant blue waves, attract millions of visitors each year, but an hour-long trek to the west will bring you to the secluded beauty of Prainha Beach, equally worth admiration.
Aside from the crowded beaches, Rio de Janeiro has plenty of serene natural beauty and ecological marvels. Venture west of Rio to immerse yourself in the lush rainforests, waterfalls, and biodiverse wildlife of the Parque Nacional da Tijuca, a verdant paradise for those who love hiking, bird-watching, or rock-climbing excursions! Northeast of Copacabana Beach lies Pão de Açucar, or Sugarloaf Mountain, accessible by a short tram ride to its peak and providing spectacular views of the bustling city.
Rio de Janeiro boasts thrilling nightlife, mouthwatering delicacies, and internationally renowned football teams. Dance clubs and bars, offering some of the best cocktails and live music in South America, line the city’s streets, particularly in the popular Lapa neighborhood. Staple street foods include savory churrasco, a Portuguese-style steak, fresh seafood dishes like moqueca, a fish stew, or pão de queijo, warm rolls of cheese bread. International soccer enthusiasts will enjoy touring the Maracanã Stadium, Brazil’s premier football stadium, which can hold up to 80,000 cheering fans per match. Travel to Rio in February for the city’s infamous Carnival, a four-day festival where the streets are filled with samba dancing, parade floats, and brilliantly hued costumes.
This colorful city will excite the eye and capture the senses!
Learn more about Rio de Janeiro
COPACABANA & IPANEMA BEACHES
Visit iconic Copacabana or Ipanema Beach for some of the best coastal views in the world! Take a dip in the refreshing blue water of the Atlantic Ocean, sunbathe in the warm sand, or simply watch the hundreds of tourists and locals who flock to the beach every day.
CHRIST THE REDEEMER
The Christ the Redeemer statue is Rio de Janeiro's most recognizable landmark, built atop Corcovado Mountain and overlooking the city below.
PÃO DE AÇUCAR
Pão de Açucar, or Sugarloaf Mountain, remains one of the most visited attractions in Rio! Hop on a quick tram ride to access this natural wonder and view the city from new heights.
PARQUE NACIONAL DA TIJUCA
The rainforests of Tijuca National Park are simply stunning. Trek west of the city center to hike through this verdant park, and make sure to keep an eye out for the colorful and diverse array of wildlife that live in Tijuca!
CARNIVAL
Rio's annual Carnival dates back to the early 18th century and remains one of the most iconic festivals in the world! The week-long celebration, usually held in mid-February before the beginning of Lent, fills the streets with grand floats, vivid costumes and masks, spectacular colors, and over two millions spectators.