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Rio De Janeiro
There are other cities in the world that have grown up backed by mountains and fronted by the sea, but none where the play of light, the shifting of shadows, the mix of colours and hues are so vibrant and mobile. Each day in Rio is slightly different from the previous one and all are strikingly beautiful.
Since its discovery in 1502 by the Portuguese explorer Amerigo Vespuccio, Rio has had a turbulent history. Wars with the French in the 16thcentury, the largest exporter of sugar in the 17th, whilst gold was the main export in the 18thcentury. It became the capital city in 1889 instead of Salvador, then in 1960, the ultimate humiliation; the capital was transferred to Brasilia.
Though no longer Brazil’s capital, it is undoubtedly the country’s most colourful city, where everything from its spectacular landmarks to its glitzy beach scene, must be seen to be believed. Nothing quite prepares you for Rio, not the postcards, not the films, not the comments, nothing. THINGS TO SEE AND DO
Below are some suggestions regarding what can be seen and done in Rio. However we do recommend talking to us to get a more comprehensive idea of a specific itinerary.
Corcovado Mountain. Corcovado is one of two images that are synonymous with Rio de Janeiro. The statue of Christ the Redeemer overlooking Rio’s beach life, standing with his arms outstretched atop Corcovado Mountain. The best way to reach the summit is by Corcovado rail that goes 3.7km up to the 2,340ft summit. The trip offers superb views over Guanabara Bay with Sugar Loaf Mountain below. Pao de Azucar. Known to the world as Sugarloaf, this infamous mountain the Indians called Pau-nd-acuqua, meaning high, pointed, isolated peak, which was bastardised by the Portuguese. The peak is accessible by cable car with a 360 degree view of Rio from the top.
City tour. A half day trip taking in some of Rio’s museums and colonial districts including the Santo Antonio Monastery, the new Cathedral and the museum of fine arts.
Beaches. The world famous beaches of Copacabana, Ipanema and Leblon, which line Rio’s Atlantic coastline, are worth exploring at your own leisure. Favela Tour. This is a full day tour by 4x4 that takes you through some of the lesser visited districts of Rio. The shanty towns that you will pass and stop in show the real life of Rio de Janeiro, the life of the cariocas, the life away from the glitzy beach front.
Recommended lodges in this area:
Rio de Janeiro
Despite its location away from the beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema, this is one of our favourite hotels in Rio. What was once a coffee plantation mansion has been transformed into a beautiful hotel
Rio de Janeiro
This boutique, Philippe Starck designed hotel is a gem. The rooftop pool is one of the best places to have your evening drinks and watch the sun set on Rio, whilst the restaurant is probably the best in the city.
Rio de Janeiro
Located in the heart of Copacabana, the Porto Bay Rio Internacional Hotel boasts modern stylish rooms, a beautiful waterfront setting with gorgeous views, and easy access to the world famous Copacabana Beach.
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