Happy Carnival! This week we’re heading down south for the biggest party in the Americas. We could introduce Rio de Janeiro by talking about its sprawling golden beaches and unbelievably blue water. Or maybe we’ll focus on the towering hills covered in tropical vegetation that dot its doorstep. Or perhaps the best place to start is with the rhythm of Samba music that carries through nightclubs and Carnival festivities.
To tell the truth, it doesn’t matter where you start as long as you arrive.
WHEN TO GO
Spring and Fall
The famous Carnival takes place every February, making this month the most popular time to visit. The streets fill with dancers, block parties, and nonstop revelry. But if you’re looking for a quieter (and cheaper) season when you can truly enjoy all that the city has to offer, consider booking your trip in the spring (September-November) or fall (March-May). Temperatures will be slightly cooler than the hot, tropical summer, and you’ll have more opportunities to explore the many faces of Rio.
The famous Carnival takes place every February, making this month the most popular time to visit. The streets fill with dancers, block parties, and nonstop revelry. But if you’re looking for a quieter (and cheaper) season when you can truly enjoy all that the city has to offer, consider booking your trip in the spring (September-November) or fall (March-May). Temperatures will be slightly cooler than the hot, tropical summer, and you’ll have more opportunities to explore the many faces of Rio.
DISCOVERIES
At the Copa, Copacabana
Do you have Barry Manilow stuck in your head yet? Good. Copacabana beach is one of the more famous beaches in the world, but in recent years Ipanema has caught up as the popular Rio hotspot. These massive beaches are famous for a reason but don’t miss out on lesser-known spots too. Our favorites include Prainha, the surfer’s paradise, Aporador, the best spot to view the sunset, and the secluded Joatinga beach. Whichever beach is calling your name, the best way to experience Rio’s golden coast is to hop on a bike and get to exploring. Everything the Light Touches Rio is a sprawling city, and at times it can get overwhelming.
To take it all in, you have to head upwards. Yes, the famous Cristo Redentor and Sugarloaf Hill are usually the first viewpoints to come to mind, but they’re not the only places in town to get a fantastic photo. The largest monolith in the region, Pedra da Gávea, often goes unnoticed but the hike to the top is one of the most rewarding. Pedra do Telégrafo is another point for creative photography. If hiking sounds better in theory than in practice, consider booking a helicopter ride or hang gliding to enjoy the same gorgeous views with none of the work. It’s Real in Rio Brazilian culture is rich and diverse, and extends beyond the samba clubs and Carnival festivities.
While in town, make a stop by the Contemporary Art Museum and the Museum of Tomorrow to tour incredible exhibits. Also worth checking out is the Royal Portuguese Cabinet of Reading the largest collection of Portuguese texts outside Portugal itself. When in doubt, take to the streets of neighborhoods like Santa Teresa and Lapa to experience the colorful street art and captivating architecture. The Call of the Wild Rio is a massive urban city, but don’t miss out on the incredible nature opportunities in its backyard.
The Tijuca forest is one of the largest urban forests in the world and features its own trails and stunning waterfalls. You can also explore the diverse Botanic Gardens, with its towering palm trees, or venture off the beaten path to Parque Lage for a quiet afternoon picnic.
WHAT TO EAT
Eating My Way Through Rio
Any beachside day in Rio should start off with açai. Whether you find this fruit in your smoothie or just eat it straight, it’s a fresh treat for a hot Rio day. For dinner, definitely sample traditional Brazilian dishes like churrasco and feijoada. Try these dishes at places like Churrascaria Palace and Casa da Feijoada. Wash it down with a classic caipirinha, or grab a beer with a water view at Bar Urca to finish up your night with a sunset.
STAY HERE
Find Me Poolside
Overwhelmingly, our local Discoverers recommend staying in the Leblon or Ipanema neighborhoods. These areas are the closest to some of the best restaurants and beaches in the city. Check out apartments on Airbnb in Leblon, or the chic beach hotel Fasano in Ipanema.
