TRAVEL TO RIO DE JANEIRO

RIO DE JANEIRO

There is much more to see in Rio than just Copacabana. From Lapa and Santa Teresa to Christ the Redeemer and the Sambodrome, Rio de Janeiro has it all. Located between huge mountains and beautiful beaches, you will certainly enjoy this city. 

It hosts numerous interesting museums, some great colonial buildings and impressive churches. A must-see is Sugar Loaf Mountain (Pao de Acucar). There are also numerous galleries with good works of Brazilian artists.

The best way to explore the city is by foot, as you will get a good taste of what Rio is all about. Public busses are generally good, but they are difficult to navigate as there is no route map. Prefer the air conditioned ones (with the words "Ar Condicionado" written on the front side). If you are visiting for a short period of time, it might be worth making longer trips by taxi; they are not very expensive. But be aware that the taxi drivers (especially during Carnival) do not always charge the correct fare for the desired destination. Most Cariocas do not take taxis, unless it is an emergency, it is raining, or they are late for something. The subway (Metro) is another good and safe option for getting around the touristy areas.

There are also vans (white) with destinations written on a sign in the front window used mainly by the locals to move about the city rapidly. These vans are not recommended for tourists who are not familiar with Rio, or who cannot speak any Portuguese.

For a city as old as Rio de Janeiro, it has its fair share of amazing culture preserved in its museums. Rio's central role during the Portuguese colonial rule for 59 years and, subsequently as the capital of independent Brazil for 138 years, gifted the city with stunning Brazilian art and historical attractions that speak volumes of its rich culture. The wide array of museums in Rio presents something for everyone!

National Historical Museum

If Latin America history is of interest, then the National Historical Museum that houses over 287,000 items of Latin American history is worth a visit. The museum also houses the largest collection of numismatic items in North American history. Modern history lovers can revel in Paço Imperial for it not only was the home of 7 colonial governors and housed the royal family, it was also witness to signing of Lei Áurea in 1888 signaling the end of Brazilian slavery before becoming a museum.

By Air

There are hundreds of flights from all continents and South America to Rio. Domestic flights arrive or leave from Santos Dumont airport. International flights go to Antonio Carlos Jobim International Airport (earlier known as Galeao). There are taxis and busses running into town from both airports. Some taxi companies have fixed rates, but it is rather expensive. You pay for the car and not for the number of passengers, so if you can share a taxi you