Weird and Cool Things You Can Only Do in Brazil's Capital

Visit Copacabana Beach and Neighborhood

Copacabana is known to many as a vibrant neighborhood with many famous festivals. Copacabana Beach is also where both locals and tourists flock every day to enjoy the sun, swim and play beach volleyball.

Immerse yourself in local Carioca culture at the Museum of the Future

The Museum of the Future is a symbol of the city's development and creates many community cultural spaces.

With its vast exhibition space and inspiration from Rio de Janeiro's local culture, the museum offers an unforgettable experience to visitors.

Panoramic view of Rio from Sugarloaf Mountain

Sugarloaf Mountain, at around 396m high, is another iconic symbol of Rio de Janeiro and is visited by over 300,000 people each year. The Sugarloaf Cable Car is the best way to reach the top of the mountain, where you can enjoy stunning views of Rio.

Reaching the Top of the World at Christ The Redeemer

Estimated to attract 2 million visitors a year, the Christ the Redeemer statue has become an icon of Rio de Janeiro and Brazil as a whole. Towering over Corcovado Mountain, the famous statue has been open to the public since 1931.

Feel the magic of Brazilian music at the Samba Show

Rio is known by many as the “World Capital of Samba”. It is part of the African culture and heritage that was formed during Brazil’s colonial period.

Today, visitors can regularly see samba dancing taking place in many places around the city, from the streets to samba clubs like the famous Ginga Tropical club.

Rio de Janeiro Botanical Garden

Recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the Rio Botanical Gardens are a must-see destination for seeing towering Amazonian trees, stunning orchids and impressive wildlife.

Take a photo at the famous Selaron stairs

The Selaron Stairs are located in the heart of Rio between the neighborhoods of Lapa and Santa Teresa. The Selaron Stairs are known as the most colorful staircase in the world, and were built in 1990.

Boat Tour in Rio de Janeiro

Rio offers stunning skyline views, from natural rainforests to stunning mountain peaks, bustling beaches and luxurious high-rises.

One of the best ways to see it all at once is from a boat. A great boat tour will take you around Guanabara Bay or the open sea.

Helicopter Tour

Sugarloaf and Christ the Redeemer aren’t the only places to see Rio from above. Try a helicopter tour for the ultimate view of Rio’s cityscapes, rainforests, beaches, luxury life and even favelas.

Inside the famous Maracanã Stadium

Football fans and entertainment enthusiasts will enjoy the great opportunity to set foot in the famous Maracanã Stadium, known for hosting many top football matches and hosting big names in the music industry from around the world.

Inaugurated in 1950, the Maracanã Stadium has a staggering capacity of 78,838 and has hosted two World Cups in 1950 and 2014.

Fly through the skies of Rio with a paraglider

You will reach new heights with paragliding while being guided by an experienced pilot, and provided with safety instructions and pre-departure training for a safe takeoff.

Horto Waterfall

Here you can escape the crowds on the beach, relax in the natural showers of this waterfall or simply quench your thirst after a hot summer day.

Take the tram in Santa Teresa

Considered one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in Rio, the Santa Teresa neighborhood always welcomes curious and art-loving visitors.

Founded in 1750 after the construction of a monastery, it has become one of the most beautiful neighborhoods with cafes, restaurants and art galleries.

See Brazilian art everywhere at the Museum of Modern Art

Inaugurated in 1948, the Museum of Modern Art - MAM, is considered one of Rio's most important cultural and educational institutions, and is a must-see if you are interested in an impressive art collection.

Experience the thrill of white water rafting

Most rafting experiences take place on the Macaé River, which is about a 2-hour drive from downtown Rio. Most rafting experiences last about 2 hours, but this depends a lot on the season you visit.

For example, summer is a time when there is more rain, so the rafting experience can be a bit more difficult and will be shorter.

Get your adrenaline pumping at Play City

Play City is a huge amusement park and shopping mall, located just 30 minutes drive from downtown Rio, offering the perfect thrill experience for both kids and adults.

Photo taken at Pedra do Telegrafo