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Famed for its iconic granite peaks intertwined with modern buildings and fabulous beaches, Rio de Janeiro has a magnificent setting with a huge lagoon and coastal forest, offering a trendy cosmopolitan lifestyle and a unique heritage.

Few cities embody the personality of their country better than Rio does for Brazil. The Marvellous City has come to be synonymous with laid-back Brazilian beach culture, its contagious and irrepressible spirit, breathtaking scenery and social complexities. Rio is a city of icons; Christ the Redeemer, the cable cars of Sugarloaf Mountain, the world famous beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema and the Maracanã stadium. It also enjoys the most envious setting of any metropolis the world over, with a beautiful huge lagoon, flanked to the east by the Guanabara Bay and to the south by the Atlantic Ocean, and extending between enormous granite peaks and wide sandy beaches.

From 1808 to 1821 the Portuguese Royal Family moved to Rio, fleeing the Napoleanic Wars in Europe and making it the capital of the Empire. This move paved the way for a number of royal palaces to be built, both within Rio and the summer residences at Petropolis, and the establishment of the Royal Library, the academy of Fine Arts, the Botanical Gardens and the Bank of Brazil, as well as holding a Royal Wedding and a Coronation. This importance led to Rio remaining the capital of Brazil through its independence, until 1960. This legacy can still be seen today, away from the famous beaches. The 'cariocas', residents of Rio, are a lively, friendly people and the city is constantly buzzing with life.

Tour Suggestions

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Shaman Tour

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Buenos Aires - Iguazu Falls - Rio de Janeiro - Salvador - Brasília - Manaus - Tabatinga Three Borders: Brazil, Peru, Colombia - Private Amazon C…

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Scarlet Tour

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Rio de Janeiro In-Depth - Iguassu Waterfalls - Salvador History - Praia do Forte Beach

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Montecristi Tour

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Rio de Janeiro - Iguassu Falls - Buenos Aires - Lima - Lake Titicaca - Andean Train Journey - Sacred Valley of the Incas - Machu Picchu - Cusco

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Brazil Nature - City & Island Life, Birdwatching & Pantanal Wetlands Cruise - Jaguar Tour

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Rio de Janeiro - Iguassu Falls - 4-night Pantanal wetlands cruise - Serra des Orgaos mountains - Pariti - Illa Grande

Copacabana Pool View

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A Week in Cosmopolitan, Stunning Rio de Janeiro - Carioca Tour

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Expedition cruise lands in Antarctica amid glaciers, mountains, and wildlife.

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Christmas or New Year in Antarctica Cruise Tour

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Rio de Janeiro - Iguazu Waterfalls - Buenos Aires - Antarctic Peninsula Christmas or New Year Cruise - Buenos Aires

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Brazil History & Nature - Rio de Janeiro, Forest Retreats, Royal Heritage & Remote Island - Aracari Tour

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Brazil Nature - Atlantic Rainforest Birdwatching Sanctuary - Saphire Tour

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Mountain Peaks Birdwatching Sanctuary - Historic Petropolis Royal Retreat - Ilha Grande Coastal Forest & Beach

Frequently Asked Questions

Every journey is unique, and questions are part of the process. This FAQ covers the most common topics to help you prepare, while our advisers are always on hand for more personal guidance.

Best time to visit Rio de Janeiro

When is the best time to visit Rio de Janeiro?

Rio de Janeiro us a year-round destination, with a warm climate and plenty of sunshine in every season. The months from May to October offer pleasant temperature and comfortable conditions for sightseeing, while the summer months bring a lively atmosphere, colourful festivals and long days on the city's famous beaches.

Top things to do in Rio de Janeiro

What are the top things to do in Rio de Janeiro?

Discover Rio's world-famous landmarks, including Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain, stroll along the iconic beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema, explore the historic Santa Teresa neighbourhood, visit the vibrant Botanical Garden, and experience the city's renowned cuisine, music and culture.

Why visit Rio de Janeiro

Few cities in the world combine spectacular natural scenery with such an exciting cultural atmosphere. Framed by dramatic mountains, golden beaches and lush rainforest, Rio de Janeiro offers and unforgettable blend of iconic landmarks, rich heritage and vibrant Brazilian life, making it one of the South America's most captivating destinations.

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