Rio de Janeiro is located in the Southeast of Brazil and is probably one of the most famous and culturally diversified cities in the country. The capital of Brazil until 1960, Rio, as it is commonly known, offers both its visitors and residents alike a whole world of natural beauty, urban landscapes and incessant activities.
The southern zone of the city is home to some of the most famous beaches in the world such as Copacabana and Ipanema which offer visitors the full beach experience form fantastic waters to all the beach activities that you would expect. Copacabana is also home to the famous Copacabana hotel, probably the best in all of Rio.
Downtown is home to the historic centre of the city with fantastic examples of architectural landmarks placed by the Portuguese on their formation of the city.
The Urban landscape of Rio is made up of stark contrasts between social classes and this is never more evident than in the poverty stricken Favelas. Rocinha, one of the Favelas, is nestled on the cliff side with panoramic views across the city, a contrast to most other cities in the world where the wealthy look down over the poor. Guided tours of The Favelas are the new tourist craze in Rio but be sure to only enter these areas with a trusted guide and remember that these can be very dangerous places.
Rio de Janeiro is not only about the urban landscape of the city. Some of the most prominent sites of Rio are embedded in some of the most spectacular scenery known to man such as the famous statue of Jesus, Christ the Redeemer atop Corcovado Mountain looking out over the city. Take a cable car ride up Sugar Loaf Mountain and wonder at the breathtaking panorama across the bay. Rio is also home to the largest forest in an urban area, Tijuca Forest which makes a welcome retreat when the city becomes a little too much.
Rio is a city that likes to party, so much so that it has probably the most famous carnival in the world. The Mardi Gras Carnival in Brazil lights up the streets for two weeks with costumes, dance and music throughout the day and night. Rio also hosts some of the largest New Years festivities in the world.
The city of Niteroi is located right next to Rio and can be reached via the Rio Niteroi Bridge.