Tour in Rio de Janeiro - Brasil

Between Copacabana Fort and Rua Francisco Otaviano with Avenida Vieira Souto Arpoador is famous for the rock that invades the sea separating Ipanema and Copacabana beach, with one of most beautiful views in Rio: on one side, the Ipanema and Leblon beaches with the Morro Dois Irmãos in the background; on the other, Diabo (Devil´s) and |Copacabana beaches. Besides the view and the beach, Arpoador also has a park with lots of green where Brazilian and international stars present popular shows. The park was baptized the “ Garota de Ipanema” (Girl from Ipanema), in homage to the famous song by Tom Jobim and Vinícius de Moraes, “ cariocas” par excellence.

THE SYMBOL OF CHRISTMAS IN FREITAS' LAGOA RODRIGO At Christmas time, Rio de Janeiro is invaded by the Christmas spirit that is all over the air. It is at Rodrigo de Freitas lagoon that a beautiful characteristic symbol of this time is located. A gigantic floating Christmas tree, right in the middle of the lagoon. Millions of small lamps that, together with neon lights, perform an unforgettable attraction. For five years, Rio has been offering this attraction to its inhabitants and visitors. Usually, the Christmas tree is lit from the first week of December to the first week of January. For about one month, the attraction is appreciated, photographed and filmed by people that normally go by the lagoon or visit this charming neighborhood of Rio just to see the great symbol of Christmas. It is a worthwhile ride. Every year, the inauguration of the Christmas attraction at Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas is innovated. More lights, more technology, more show. The inauguration ceremony of the tree in 2000 with concerts drew more than 15 thousand people. It was an extraordinary show of colored lights when the tree was lit, enriched by fireworks from the center of the tree itself. An unforgettable Christmas attraction! The Christmas tree, besides its exuberant beauty, is constantly moving around, providing a good view from all parts of the lagoon.

Popularly known as the Aterro or landfill, its 1.2 million m² of lawns, flowering shrubs and trees are one of the loveliest and most important landscaping projects designed by Roberto Burle Marx. Running along the shoreline from the Santos Dumont Airport to Botafogo Bay, this park offers a wide array of attractions. An interesting itinerary starts at the Modern Art Museum, continuing past the Monument to World War II, the Marina da Gloria and the Carmen Miranda Museum, ending at the Monument to Estácio de Sá, founder of the City of Rio de Janeiro. An unforgettable spectacle on the first Sunday of each month is the changing of the guard by all three Armed Forces, at the Monument to World War II Soldier. On Sundays and holidays, this park is closed to traffic, offering the public numerous recreation options.

Like so many places in the world, the neighborhood of Santa Teresa was built on faith around a convent. You can often hear the locals say "I am Santa Teresa" which is how they endearingly refer to their neighborhood. Spend a weekend in Santa Teresa climbing the slopes, discovering the lookouts and curves in the streets which surprise you at every turn with magnificent views of Guanabara Bay, visiting the workshops and finally relaxing in a typical tavern to the sound of a “ chorinho”, a sad, Brazilian love song. But amidst the fun and joy of this neighborhood, you can also meditate with the Buddhist monks and see the convent of cloistered nuns as if they were praying for us on high! Open your heart! Be aware of your feelings. Take it easy, because time doesn’t mean much here. Look, listen, savor, touch and feel all that this incomparable neighborhood has offer and when you leave Santa Teresa don’t be surprise if a little of it (most likely the richest and most creative part) remains forever in your heart. Then, you can also say: “ I am Santa Teresa!”

Rio’s carnival is the biggest carnival of the world. It is a theme party whose invitation is enthusiasm. Some even argue that Rio’s carnival is the largest celebration of the planet! Bands, samba schools and local organizations anxiously wait for this time of the year. At this party, everyone is welcome and even those who aren’t native carioca’s feel that at home!

Located at the city’s finanical center, the cathedral is already part of the cultural itinerary of the city. The Lapa Arcs and the magnificent Petrobras building surround it. With a unique architectural design (the cathedral is shaped like a pyramid), the cathedral captures its visitor’s attention with its energy and interior magnitude. The altar is located at the center of the pyramid’s base and is surrounded by seats and lateral entrances.

Light (Electric Company) Cultural Center This building in American Renaissance Style was built in 1911 on the old Larga Street as the main office and garage for Light cable cars.This building in American Renaissance Style was built in 1911 on the old Larga Street as the main office and garage for Light cable cars. Since 1994, it has housed the center that actively participates in the cultural life of the city. Shows and expositions are presented in its diverse spaces and galleries, highlighting: Espaço Rio Antigo (Old Rio Space), whose collection consists of historical photos by August Malta;Sala Memória (Memory Hall), where photos, equipment, and furniture of the services of The Rio de Janeiro Tramway Light and Power Company are on display; Di Cavalcanti Space, with four canvases by this artist that form the Rio Composition, a vigorous panel on the daily life of the city, in addition to the Lamartine Babo Theater and the Covered Square, where the "Rua Larga Musical Street-car" is set up for various artistic manifestations, highlighting new talents in Popular Brazilian Music.

Confeitaria Colombo

A living portrait of the Belle Époque in Rio, and one of the city's gourmet landmarks, the Confeitaria Colombo still retains much of its Art Nouveau charm dating back to the beginning of the century. Its famous Belgian mirrors in their hardwood frames and rosewood showcases, Italian marble benches, ornate light fixtures, glossy floor and period furniture have been preserved intact, just as they were admired by many famous individuals who helped.

Copacabana Palace

One of the first hotels in Rio to be built on the seashore, the Copacabana Palace still reflects the Cultural influences of Europe offering sophisticated service and accommodations. Inaugurated I 1923, this hotel became a symbol of Rio, welcoming a steady flow of famous artists and performers, politicians, executives and international celebrities. Declared part of Brazil´s Historical Heritage, its colorful history includes many fascinating episodes. For instance, it was the setting for the movie “ Flying Down to Rio”, Where Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers Danced together for the first time.

Christ Statue

Located atop the Corcovado Mountain at a height of 710 meters, the statue of Christ the Redeemer is certainly one of the world's best-known and most-visited monuments. This outing begins in the Cosme Velho District, aboard a miniature train that runs through the steep Atlantic Rainforest up to the foot of the statue, offering stunning glimpses of Rio from many different angles. From the top, the view is nothing short of heavenly: Copacabana, Ipanema, Leblon, Botanical Gardens, the Jockey Club, and the Lagoon. The entire city spreads out in a magnificent panorama during the day, glittering and magic after dark and always protected by Christ the Redeemer, who blesses visitors and residents from on high.

Botafogo Bay

The sidewalk running along Botafogo Beach in front of the bay of the same name offers one of the loveliest views of the city:with Urca Hill and Sugarloaf right at the entrance to the Guanabara Bay. In the foreground, the boats and sails of the Yacht Club add life and color to the scene. A favorite venue for shows and concerts drawing lively crowds, its facilities include a cycle path and bicycle racks for visitors.

Tijuca Forest

Home to hundreds of species of plants and wildlife, many threatened by extinction, found only in the Atlantic Rainforest, this is the world's largest urban forest, covering some 3,200 hectares. Its historical attractions and enchanting nooks are well worth a leisurely visit. Just a short drive from the financial center downtown, the North Zone and Rio's smart beach districts, its attractions include the Cascatinha Waterfallll, the Mayrink Chapel, the Excelsior Lookout Point, the Paul and Virginia Grotto, Fairy Lake and, all favorite destinations for weekend family outings.

São João Fortress

Ordered to be built by Estácio de Sá, the founder of Rio de Janeiro, since his arrival on March 1, 1565, São João Fort officially began to operate on June 24, 1618. A reproduction of the founding mark of the City of Rio de Janeiro is found there. Today São João Fort continues to mark the entrance of the bay to the harbor and, in addition to the fort itself, it lodges the Graduate War School and the Research & Development Institute.

Copacabana Fort

Copacabana Fort History and beauty at the same place Built in 1914 to defend Guanabara Bay, the Copacabana Fort offers visitors many interesting attractions. Outstanding events are recorded for posterity at the Army Historical Museum through displays, video exhibitions, maquettes and even a hi-tech multi-media terminal that is a favorite with visitors to the Fort. All this is set against a panoramic view of one of the loveliest points on the Brazilian coastline.

Gafieira Estudantina

Dance Hall Estudantina Opened in 1932, the Gafieira Estudantina was designed as an alternative to the old dance halls popular during the 1930s. Today it is a nightspot which offers a setting for a wide variety of styles and rhythms, helping popularize ballroom dancing. A meeting point for artists, singers and song-writers, it has always attracted many visitors. Today it is renowned worldwide thanks to mentions in tour guides published in countless countries. With a capacity of 1,500 people, every Thursday, Friday and Saturday, it attracts crowds of enthusiastic dancers.

Golf Club

The word “golf” comes from the German word kolb, which means club. The game consists of trying to put the balls in the holes covering the entire field with the least amount of hits. There are usually 18 holes in a field and in a game the one who covers the 18 holes in the least number of plays is considered the winner. Although golf is usually played in groups of 2 to 4 members, it is not considered a tem sport since the player’s only opponent is the field itself. Results depend on individual efforts and luck, as each golfer strives to diminish his scores. In golf, there are an infinite variety of categories: doubles, triples, mixed, etc…For this reason it is an excellent game for socializing and making new friends. In official competitions golfers are not allowed to talk to each other but when playing among friends the most experienced player usually gives “tips” to the less experienced ones.

Nsa Sra da Gloria do Outeiro Church

This architectural jewel is part of the Rio landscape since the first half of the XVII Century. Its unique design is based on a polygonal ground plan with a domed roof, which ushered in a pioneering style in Brazil. Attended by the Imperial Family, this precious treasure is part of Brazil's royal legacy. Floodlit at night, it is a not-to-be-missed stop on any cultural tour of Rio de Janeiro.

Candelária Church

The impressive façade of the Candelária Church rises tranquilly from the bustling financial center of Rio downtown, in the heart of an area rich in cultural attractions. Built in the XVIII Century, its ground-plan is designed in the shape of a Latin cross; lined with marble, its masonry facades feature elaborate bronze doors, with its entire history painted on the walls. This is one of the loveliest churches in Rio de Janeiro.

Nsa. Sra. de Bonsucesso Church

Built as part of the Santa Casa de Misericórdia complex, the church of Nossa Senhora de Bonsucesso is one of the oldest in Rio. Construction began here in 1576, alongside Castelo Hill. Rebuilt in 1780, it still retains the altars and pulpit from the equally ancient Jesuit Church which was destroyed when Castelo Hill was razed.

Paquetá Island

The many charms of Guanabara Bay include this tiny island (1,096,100m²) where automobiles are banned. Residents and visitors alike travel by bicycle and horse-drawn carriage along graveled streets lined with vivid royal poincianas. Also known as the Island of Love, this day-trip destination is easily accessed by ferryboat and hovercraft lines running regularly scheduled trips from the Praça Quinze de Novembro Square.

Fiscal Island

The miniature palace on Fiscal Island is famed as the venue of the last ball hosted by Brazil's crumbling Empire on 9 November 1889; the Brazilian Republic was proclaimed only a few days later.

Ipanema

Even more irresistible than the muse who inspired the "Girl from Ipanema" - the song which immortalized both her and her neighborhood - there is no doubt that Ipanema is a famous meeting point in Rio de Janeiro. This sophisticated district offers a lively night life scene with an enticing blend of beach, bars and boutiques. A major attraction throughout the day, its sands also welcome countless after-dark visitors, including joggers and other athletes who cluster at its kiosks, pedal along the bicycle path and make good use of special lighting to exercise and relax. Thanks to its multi-faceted lifestyle, Ipanema truly reflects the Carioca spirit of the people of Rio, welcoming visitors eager to join in the fun.

Botanical Gardens

Each of the 141 hectares of Rio's Botanical Gardens shelters outstanding examples of plantlife from Brazil and all over the world. The Imperial Palms are among its most spectacular attractions, planted in 1809 by Prince Regent D. João VI. Huge trees decked with orchids contrast with giant victoria-regia, lilies, bromeliads, royal poincianas and tropical foliage, making the Botanical Gardens a favorite hideaway for nature-lovers, sweethearts and all those seeking peace and tranquillity.

Jockey Club

Racing fans are not the only ones who will enjoy a visit to the Gávea racetrack. One of the city's historic landmarks, the Jockey Club was designed in Louis XV-style by architect Francisco Couchet, and offer sports, recreation, fashion, receptions, shows as well as - obviously - Brazil's most important horse-racing events. Located between two other tourist attractions, the Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas and the Botanical Gardens, it offers visitors non-stop thrills.

Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon

Surrounded by luxurious homes and embraced by Christ the Redeemer, the Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon is an impressive sight at sunset, as the light reflects on its tranquil waters. Linked to the sea by the Jardim de Alah canal that divides Ipanema from Leblon, it is encircled by parks, multi-sports courts, a roller-skating rink, a heliport, jogging and bicycle paths, and an outdoor food court offering a wide variety of dishes ranging from Italian through Japanese, in addition to live music from 9 p.m. onwards. On Sundays and holidays, paddleboats offer visitors a unique view of the forest covered mountains framing the loveliest lake in Rio. Location : Epitácio Pessoa Av. and Borges de Medeiros Av., including the sections Ipanema, Lagoa and Humaitá. The Lagoon parks can be visited anytime.

Largo do Boticário

Just seven colorful houses form this delightful corner of Rio de Janeiro. Named in honor of Joaquim Luiz da Silva Souto, who once owned an estate here as the apothecary or boticário to the Royal Family the Largo do Boticário features colonial-style facades and roofs around a cobblestoned square shaded by ancient trees with the gentle murmur of the Carioca stream near a lovely patch of Atlantic Rain Forest. Long a magnet for well-known artists, over the years this square has hosted a wide variety of artistic and cultural events that attract crowds of visitors to the Cosme Velho District.

Maracanã Soccer Stadium

Inaugurated in June 1950, the world's largest sports stadium still retains all the glamourthat makes it a landmark and an irresistible attraction for visitors to Rio. The stage of memorable moments such as Pelé's 1,000th goal, Maracanã also hosted mega-concerts by Frank Sinatra and Paul McCartney, drawing huge audiences of over 180,000 which made the Guinness Book of Records. More recent and no less important was the Meeting with Families during Pope John Paul II's last visit to Brazil. With this impressive track-record, Maracanã leaves a lasting impression, thanks to its sheer size, style and beauty. This monument to sport is open for visits almost every day at various times.

In the downtown area, between Santos Dumont airport and the World War II Monument in Brigadier Eduardo Gomes Park – Aterro da Glória, the Marina serves sportsmen and visitors alike. Whoever observes it from a distance, has the impression of admiring a painting, Nature’s work of art. It occupies a 105,000 square-meter area, has a floating dock and a main dock, as well as a supporting infrastructure for tourist and sports vessels, in addition to restaurants and private parking.

Monument to the Soldiers Killed in World War II

Architects: Hélio Ribas Marinho and Marcos Konder Neto. Date: 1952. The monument is dedicated to the Brazilian G.Is (ex-combatants) killed during World War II. Note the interesting murals by Anísio Medeiros. Monument to the Dead in World War II (Modern) Av. Infante Dom Henrique. 26. (Lapa Arches - Carioca Aqueduct) (Colonial) The former aqueduct which supplied the city center with water from the water springs of Santa Teresa. They were built in 1750. There is an interesting collection of eclectic residences along the tram route.

São Bento Monastery

Work began on the Mont Serrat Church and the São Bento Monastery in 1617, continuing through to 1669. A hundred years later, a series of renovations expanded and restored these historical sites - and it was certainly worth the wait. Ranked as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, this monastery stands out for the startling contrast between its austere facade with its triangular front and the intricately-worked gilded wooden carvings decorating the interior of its church. The paintings, works of art, design of the chapels and the roof of the nave - dating back to the XVIII Century - and its Gregorian plainchant choir all ensure that the São Bento Monastery will enchant every visitor.

Casa do Pontal

The largest folk art museum in Brazil is located on a quiet estate in Recreio dos Bandeirantes, set between Prainha beach and the Serra do Mar coastal range. Featuring over 5,000 pieces in a wide variety of styles, shapes, materials and sizes, this unique collection has been built up over the past fifty years by French collector Jacques van de Beuque. It also has a database for students and visitors eager for additional information.

Chacara do Ceu Museum

Once the home of art collector and industrialist Raymundo Ottoni de Castro Maya, the Chácara do Céu Museum in Santa Teresa links art, history and nature in flawless harmony.Home to a large collection of books, as well as paintings, ceramics, furniture and objets d'art, outstanding items include works by artists such as Picasso, Matisse, Dali, Miró, Marcoussis, Di Cavalcanti, and Portinari, as well as a large collection of watercolors and drawings by Debret.

Modern Art Museum

Inaugurated in 1958, the Modern Art Museum has a very unusual history. It has a privileged location on Flamengo Park alongside Guanabara Bay, close to downtown. After a disastrous fire in 1978, hundreds of people all over the world flocked to rebuild this cultural treasure, helping repair the building (130 meters x 25 meters) and replace its collections. It currently houses some 11,000 works including paintings, sculptures and engravings by Brazilian and foreign artists, in addition to a specialized art library and a well-known cinemathèque that is among the most popular in town.

National History Museum

In an harmonious architectural complex this museum was established in 1922 during the Epitácio Pessoa Government. Covering an area of 18.000m², the National History Museum is housed in three separate buildings constructed at different times: the Casa do Trem (1762); the Royal Arsenal (1822); and the Barracks Annex (1835). Once set right on the seafront, it was originally planned as a strategic factor in the defense of the city. Today it is home to a priceless cultural treasure trove.

National History Museum

In an harmonious architectural complex this museum was established in 1922 during the Epitácio Pessoa Government. Covering an area of 18.000m², the National History Museum is housed in three separate buildings constructed at different times: the Casa do Trem (1762); the Royal Arsenal (1822); and the Barracks Annex (1835). Once set right on the seafront, it was originally planned as a strategic factor in the defense of the city. Today it is home to a priceless cultural treasure trove.

Nature

God is an artist.And Rio, His masterpiece. The first brush stroke was blue: the sea. Green paint spattered on the canvas and spread over a large area: the forest. Afterwards, came the mountains with water cascading over them: the waterfalls. In this scenario, special characters were necessary. It was then that the "cariocas" were born with their legendary good humor. Even the asphalt did not change the landscape. After ali, Rio has the only urban forest in the world. Of its total area, 18% is pure green. Only the "carioca/1 has the privilege of going home from work watching the sunset by the seaside. When the weekend arrives, there's the choice between 83 kilometers of beaches and lots of waterfalls to visit and cool off in. Or walk at the Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon, go hang gliding, sailing, or mountain climbing. Ali this without going very far from home. That's why Rio is incomparable. Nature, a unique spectacle in the world.

Catete Palace

The seat of Brazil's Republican Government from 1897 through 1960, the neo classical facade of the Catete Palace is faced with granite and pink marble, its gateways framed in white marble. No less than eighteen presidents of Brazil have passed through its doors, and some of the most important events in the nation's history have taken place here, including decisions to fight in both World Wars and the suicide of President Getúlio Vargas. Transformed into a museum after the Federal Capital moved to Brasilia, this palace today features a busy cultural agenda, in addition to a bookstore, bar, restaurant and souvenir boutique. Its attractive gardens offer moments of peace during the day, and a venue for pleasant evening strolls.

Sugar Loaf

The height and unmistakable outline of Sugarloaf make it - together with Christ the Redeemer one of the two main attractions offering breathtaking views of Rio. This famous landmark is reached by cablecar in two stages: first to the top of Urca Hill, where visitors catch the second car to their final destination. From the Sugarloaf, the endless beaches of Rio de Janeiro and Niteroi stretch to the horizon. Set against the lush Atlantic Rainforest, the scene is dotted with historical buildings such as the Santa Cruz Fort and the miniature palace on Fiscal Island.

Ruínas Park

Rather than historical ruins, strictly speaking, these are actually the relics of a mansion dating back to the turn of the century in the Santa Tereza district. Once home to Laurinda Santos Lobo, the Parque das Ruinas in rua Murtinho Nobre features a plaque inaugurated in November 1997, signed by writer Rachel Jardim, perfectly representing this site: "That was the Golden Age of the Santa Tereza district. Set high on a hill with a view over the entire city, there was the house, like its owner a daring blend of various styles. Artists and intellectuals clustered around her. On the belvedere Isadora Duncan danced, Villa-Lobos played. Their voices, their steps, their laughs still echo. Laurinda floated, danced in the moonlight to the music of Villa-Lobos, wrapped in clouds, swathed in the veils of Isadora. Laurinda Santos Lobo, deity of Rio, born on 4 May 1878, departed the world on 18 July 1946, welcomes us all." 169 Murtinho Nobre Street – Santa Teresa Phone: 252-1039 / 252-0112 Everyday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Guinle Park

Architect: Lúcio Costa Date: 1948. A significant complex of modern buildings conceived from principles proposed by Le Corbusier. Amidst a pleasant public park, the buildings served as a pattern for the residential super-blocks in Brasília.

Rio - Niteroi Bridge

Opened to vehicle traffic on March 5, 1974, its true name is President Costa e Silva Bridge and it is the largest bridge in the world in terms of construction volume. It is 13.9 kilometers long and 20 meters wide. The total constructed area is 210,600 square meters; it is the largest structure of its kind to this date.

XV de Novembro Square

Today home to the Imperial Palace, the historical Teles Arches and inviting by-ways such as the Travessa do Comércio the Quinze de Novembro Square was originally a morass of mangrove swamps that was filled in as the city grew. As part of the nation's heritage, it was here that the history of Rio de Janeiro began. After recent modernization and reurbanization projects undertaken by the City Council, its bars, restaurants, open-air fairs, museums and colorful crowds all endow this square with a special charm that can only be fully appreciated by personally experiencing the ambience of this lively spot.

Barra da Tijuca Beach

Sweeping some eighteen kilometers south of the city, this magnificent beach is the longest in Rio. Clear waters and perfect waves make this beach a favorite with surfers, boogie-boarders, windsurfers and surf-casters. Lined with colorful bars, kiosks and restaurants, this beach is attracting increasingly large crowds of visitors, particularly on weekends.

Joatinga Beach

The further west you go, the more wild beaches become. You have the sensation of being in a small town in the interior of the country with dirt roads and trail. It´s worth taking a day outing to the beach to fully take advantage of the experience.

Copacabana Beach

It's almost impossible for visitors to Rio to resist the charm of the city's eighty kilometers of beaches. Framed by the wavy black and white mosaics of Avenue Atlântica, Copacabana is one of the main reasons for this fascination. In fact, there are two separate beaches here: Leme (one kilometer) and Copacabana, (just over three kilometers). A center of activity both night and day, the beach is lined with kiosks, a bicycle path and racks, lifeguard posts, public showers and bathrooms, hotels, bars and open-air restaurants. The Military Forts at each end are open to visitors, offering panoramic views.

Diabo Beach

It is impossible to go by the shore of Copacabana and Ipanema for the first time and not remember the songs sung of their beauty. At Copacabana Beach, the most famous in the world, you will never feel lonely. At any time of the day or night there is always something happening there. Along the incomparable contour of the shore, there are kiosks blended with palm trees, where people of all races, ages, and nationalities meet for conversation accompanied by a draft beer and “caipirinha” (national drink made from limes and cachaça-sugar cane licquor) or coconut water.

Pepê Beach

Pepê was the nickname of a character very much appreciated by the "Carioca" people, a Hang Gliding Champion that had a kiosk of natural sandwiches. The patê sandwiches created by him originated a new fashion in the Rio de Janeiro's gastronomy.

Pepino Beach

The street vendors sell their products on all the beaches in Rio, always inventing new ways to call the public´s attention. On the Weekends, the sky in São Conrado is filled with colors, in a spectacle that begins on the ramp of Pedra Bonita and lands on the sandy beaches. They are the hang gliders manned by adrenaline-driven sportspersons and adventures looking for a new angle of the Marvelous City.

Quinta da Boa Vista

The park is part of the Solar of the Boa Vista, the royal residence, which was home to the emperors in Brazil from 1822 to 1889, when the Republic was proclaimed. It has a 155 thousand squaremeter area, andscaped in 1869 by the French landscaper Auguste Glaziou. On entering the lateral gateways, the visitor goes down a path lined with sapucaia trees and through the romantic alleys created by the landscaper, with lakes! grottos, and corners in the Imperial gardens. Location: Pedro II Av., between Almirante Baltazar and Dom Meinrado streets – São Cristóvão. Visits to the National Museum: from Tuesdays to Sundays from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Free visits on Thursdays.

Sanctuary - Barra da Tijuca

The ecological reservations allow the opportunity to get to know the original vegetation of the “Marvelous City”, the Mata Atlântica. It offers direct contact with nature you can bathe in the waterfalls and appreciate beautiful sites. There are many options, all you have to do is follow the set trails and adhere to a few safety tips: 1) Never walk alone, go with a tourist guide specialized in natural attractions. 2) Take a light lunch and water in your backpack. 3) Were light clothes such as shorts, cotton T-shirts, socks and walking shoes. 4) Take a raincoat, cellular phone, lantern, sun protecting cream, cap and plastic bags to serve as wastebaskets. 5) Walks should always begin in the morning and always let someone outsides of your hiking group know where you are.

Burle Marx Country House

Roberto Burle Marx Estate One of the most important landscape artists of modern times, Roberto Burle Marx left a priceless legacy not only to the city and people of Rio but also to all those who love nature and struggle to preserve it. His estate in Guaratiba, just south of Rio, shelters over 3,500 plant species, many threatened with extinction. It also houses a fabulous art collection, as well as a library with over 2,500 books. Offering a variety of cultural activities, this is today a favorite outing for both children and adults, as well as experts from all over the world. Location: 2019 Barra de Guaratiba Road – Barra de Guaratiba Phone/fax: 410-1412 / 410-1171 Everyday from 9:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Municipal Theatre

Located near the National Library, the National Fine Arts Museum and the Pedro Ernesto Palace, the Municipal Theatre faces the spacious Cinelândia Square. Its attractive architectural design catches the eye, with its imposing facade, paralleled by the beauty of its interior decoration. Built of fine colored Carrara marble, bronze and onyx, it is outfitted with mirrors and period furniture, paintings and sculptures. Seating 2,200 people, this theater is a true temple of culture that is just as popular with visitors as the performances staged here.

New Year's Eve in Rio

Rio is best known for Carnival but celebrating New Year's Eve in Rio is quickly joining the list of great celebrations.
While there are parties in restaurants, hotels and clubs across the city, Copacabana Beach is the main site of the city's partying.
It is estimated that a million people gather along the beach, the vast majority dressed in white.
Many bring candles and candlelit offerings to the Goddess of the Sea, Iemanja, and set them at water's edge to be taken out to sea for her pleasure. Together, this sets an unforgettable stage for the night's festivities.

The fireworks festival starts at midnight, with the turning of the year. The fireworks stations are located in boats anchored in a safe distance from the beach. It lasts about 15-20 minutes, and two highlights are the fireworks cascades at Forte de Copacabana and at Le Meridién.
If you are coming for New Year's Eve you must learn some of the traditions. The first one is that people wear white for the party. You may add accessories in your favorite colors: red is good to attract romance, yellow is for prosperity, green for good health, and so on. Black is not the right color to wear, no matter how fashionable it may be.

Copacabana Beach

A lot of people bring flowers, and you should throw them in the sea before midnight. They are an offering to Yemanja, the deity of the seas. Bring a bottle of champagne to pop and drink at midnight. If you are on the beach and you decide to shake the bottle and spray around, nobody will complain - it's considered good luck. You may also be blessed by a Candomble priestess, and enjoy the traditional African dances and costumes.
This is a party where everybody is welcome. Walk along the beach and you will run into socialies, working class people, transvestites, children, seniors, couples, teenagers, it seems that all tribes mingle in peace to welcome the new year.
Plan your trip ahead, as it is not that easy to find an air ticket in the last minute. Hotels in Rio raise their rates for New Year's, and offer their rooms in prepayable packages including a predetermined number of mandatory nights. Try to book as early as you can, or you will be stuck with the more expensive options. The photos below will give you an idea of what to expect. Enjoy!