15 Best Rio de Janeiro Tours to Book in 2024
LOOKING FOR THE BEST TOURS IN RIO DE JANEIRO
You are in the right place because this article includes all of the best Rio de Janeiro tours.
🇧🇷 Living in Rio de Janeiro since 2016, I am constantly amazed with how much there is to do in this incredible city. From market visits, icononic landscapes, rich history to beautiful beaches, you can never be bored in the ciudad maravillosa (marvelous city).
Don’t have time to read the whole article?
One of the best Rio de Janeiro tours is this Private Custom Full-Day Highlights in Rio, with a perfect ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating 😊❤️.
So as there are so many things to do in Rio de Janeiro, you can also expect as many amazing Rio de Janeiro guided tours that fulfill every type of want and need. And I have chosen the best of the best — they are all listed here.
Here are 15 of the best Rio de Janeiro tours to ensure you find the perfect tour of Rio de Janeiro to fit your needs and interests. Ready? 🇧🇷🇧🇷 Vamos (or let’s go in Portuguese).
Top 3: Best Christ the Redeemer Tours
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15 Best Rio de Janeiro Tours
1. Christ the Redeemer Early Access and Sugarloaf
⭐️ RATING: 4.7 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 8.5 hours | 🚠 BOOK NOW
Experience the awe-inspiring journey to the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue on this early access tour brings you to the top Corcovado Hill. You will also get to enjoy panoramic vistas from the summit of the Sugar Loaf.
The day will start at Copacabana Beach. You will then visit Botafogo Beach and the Palácio Guanabara. You will also see the old mansion houses in the Laranjeiras and Cosme Velho districts. After this tour of Rio, you will head up the hill to see the Christ the Redeemer statue.
Sabina was amazing. She was very knowledgeable, passionate about the history of Rio, and just a wonderful tour guide.
— PETRA (READ MORE REVIEWS)
From this point, the Brazil Rio de Janeiro tour can be tailored to your preferences. You can be dropped off on Sugarloaf Mountain or take the cable car up. There is also an option to include further exploration of Rio’s downtown.
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30 things you need to know before you go to Rio de Janeiro…
Best Rio de Janeiro Tours
2. Private Custom Full-Day Highlights in Rio
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 8-9 hours | 🚠 BOOK NOW
Go on a personalized adventure through Rio de Janeiro on this Private Custom Full-Day Highlights in Rio Tour. Make a list of things to see in Rio de Janeiro, and off you go.
Your exclusive group can opt for a nature-focused exploration or dive into the city’s rich history. When booking this tour, you can select from attractions like Sugar Loaf Mountain, Christ the Redeemer, or the famous Selaron Steps in Lapa.
We had an amazing tour with Igor. He customized it for us and was so personable, including taking us to one of his favorite restaurants.
— KAREN (READ MORE REVIEWS)
This is a full day tour from Rio de Janeiro private tour guide included. It lasts eight to nine hours and allows for an in-depth Rio de Janeiro City tour.
Your pick up and drop off are also customizable, whether it’s your hotel, the port, or the airport. This is one of the best private tours in Rio de Janeiro for an experience perfect for you and your needs.
Best Rio de Janeiro Tours
3. Helicopter Flight Over Sugar Loaf & Christ
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 30 minutes | 🚁 BOOK NOW
For an exhilarating and unforgettable journey, explore Rio’s wonders on this Panoramic Helicopter Tour that will allow you to soar above the city.
You will fly over Copacabana, Ipanema Beach, Maracanã, Sugar Loaf, and Christ the Redeemer. You’ll also head west and explore Reserva Beach, Barra da Tijuca, and other landmarks.
This was a great experience and much better value than other trips available. With 30 mins you really got the helicopter experience and a good overview of the city.
— DOMINIQUE (READ MORE REVIEWS)
The helicopter is meticulously maintained. The company adheres to international safety standards, ensuring a secure experience. All of the pilots are internationally certified.
Witness the breathtaking landscapes of Rio on one of the best Rio de Janeiro excursions available.
Best Rio de Janeiro Tours
4. Rio de Janeiro Hang Gliding Experience
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours | 🪂 BOOK NOW
Experience the thrill of soaring above Rio de Janeiro on this hang-gliding adventure.
You will take off from Tijuca Forest National Park and glide over the stunning Atlantic Forest.
You will be able to see iconic landmarks and have breathtaking views of Sugar Loaf Mountain, Rocinha Favela, and Christ the Redeemer.
I love a good and safe adventure. This experience superseded my expectations. The instructor/pilot was so helpful and patient with me. He was so friendly and encouraging.
— MALISSA (READ MORE REVIEWS)
The ride in the hang glider usually lasts around five minutes, and you will land on Sao Conrado Beach.
You will have a certified instructor with you for the entire experience. And the cherry on top? At the end, you’ll take home a DVD of the experience for your turismo Rio de Janeiro memories.
Best Rio de Janeiro Tours
5. Rio de Janeiro: 6-Stop Highlights of Rio with Lunch
⭐️ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 8 hours | 🚠 BOOK NOW
Rated as one of the most comprehensive day tours, this Rio de Janeiro: 6-Stop Highlights with Lunch offers an unforgettable journey through the heart of Rio.
Your adventure begins with a scenic drive through Tijuca Forest up to the iconic Christ the Redeemer. Snap unforgettable photos before moving to the legendary Maracanã Stadium to discover Brazil’s football craze up close.
Very good from start to finish. Every attraction was sufficiently timed out and we didn’t feel rushed at all. Lunch was a buffet restaurant, they’ll be something for everyone
— RAHUL(READ MORE REVIEWS)
Next, visit the Sambadrome and climb the famous Selarón Steps, an artistic landmark filled with tiles from over 60 countries. Then, head to the stunning Metropolitan Cathedral, known for its conical shape and beautiful stained-glass interior.
Enjoy a delicious all-you-can-eat buffet lunch to recharge. The day caps off with a cable car ride to the summit of Sugarloaf Mountain, providing panoramic views of Rio, the Bay of Guanabara, and beyond.
This tour is your ticket to experiencing Rio’s top sights in one day—a perfect snapshot of Rio’s vibrant life and landscapes.
Best Rio de Janeiro Tours
6. Sunset Sailing Tour in Rio de Janeiro
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | 🌅 BOOK NOW
This beautiful Sunset Sailing Tour in Rio de Janeiro lets you glide along Guanabara Bay.
You will start from Marina da Gloria, the hub of the 2016 Olympic Games sailing competition. During the three-hour tour, you will glide by Sugarloaf Mountain and the picturesque Urca neighborhood.
Clariss and the rest of the crew were great! We had a wonderful time and would recommend this cruise to anyone visiting Rio!
— BRENT (READ MORE REVIEWS)
Christ the Redeemer can be seen on the horizon throughout the journey.
The Museu de Arte Contemporanea de Niteroi is the final landmark of the tour. The beautiful museum has very distinctive architecture. This is a great way to experience the city.
The tour is for small groups and is a fantastic tour en Rio de Janeiro to experience it from another angle. Another perk? 🥂 Complimentary drinks and snacks.
Best Rio de Janeiro Tours
7. Samba Class & Samba Night Tour in Rio
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 4 hours | 💃 BOOK NOW
Experience the rhythm of Rio de Janeiro on this Samba Class & Samba Night Tour in Rio, one of the best Brazil tours if you love to dance 💃.
During the tour, you will learn the samba and forró dances for beginners. Your skilled instructor will guide you through the basics in a lively atmosphere.
10 out of 10. Our instructor was helpful and patient with me as we learned to Samba. Afterward we were able to use out dance moves at a street party.
— litaonpoint395 (READ MORE REVIEWS)
After the lessons, you will head to a local club. With this tour, entry to the club is included. You also get to skip the line out front. Then you can join the dance floor, showcasing your newfound skills.
Your guide will help you safely get a taxi home when the night finishes.
The dance studio is near Ipanema. Whether solo, with a partner, or a group of friends, everyone is welcome and this is a must do in Rio de Janeiro.
Best Rio de Janeiro Tours
8. Tijuca National Park Caves and Waterfall Hiking Tour
⭐️ RATING: 4.8 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 5 hours | 🌊 BOOK NOW
Rated as one of the top eco-adventures in Rio, this Rio: Tijuca National Park Caves and Waterfall Hiking Tour takes you on a mesmerizing journey through the world’s largest urban forest.
Begin your exploration with a scenic walk to Cascatinha Taunay, the park’s tallest waterfall. Capture stunning photos at the breathtaking Vista Chinesa viewpoint before learning about Tijuca’s unique flora, fauna, and conservation efforts from your expert guide.
Omg! Such a cool experience!
— JADE (READ MORE REVIEWS)
Explore hidden caves and refreshing falls on a hike before winding down at São Conrado Beach, where hang gliders and paragliders soar gracefully overhead.
For these types of tours Rio, your guide, hotel pickup and drop-off are included.
Best Rio de Janeiro Tours
9. Half-Day Rio Experience: Christ the Redeemer & Sugarloaf
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 5 hours | 🚠 BOOK NOW
Step out for a morning adventure on this Half-Day Tour of Rio de Janeiro. On this half-day tour, you will summit both the Corcovado and Sugar Loaf mountains. This tour gets you out early before the crowds arrive.
After your hotel, you will head through the Tijuca National Forest to Christ the Redeemer. Your guide will teach you about its history.
Gabo & Voldemort were excellent guides & drivers. Everything was on time and according to plan. Great way to learn a lot about Rio as you see the classics
— ALEXANDER (READ MORE REVIEWS)
From there, you will take a cable car ride to Sugar Loaf Mountain. At the top, you can see panoramic city views as Rio wakes up. Other iconic landmarks you will pass on this guided tour include Palácio Guanabara, and Largo do Boticário.
You can also visit Copacabana and Botafogo Beaches. Finally, you will be able to explore the neighborhoods of Ipanema and Leblon.
Best Rio de Janeiro Tours
10. Boozy Brazilian Cooking Class with Market Tour
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3.5 hours | 🧑🍳 BOOK NOW
Rated as a culinary feast not to be missed, Rio’s Cookin’ Good: 9-Dish Fiesta w/ Market tour & Caipis Galore serves up an unforgettable taste of Brazil.
Your evening starts in Ipanema at a cozy cooking studio, where you’ll join an expert instructor and fellow food enthusiasts for hands-on learning.
Whether a kitchen novice or a seasoned chef, you’ll master iconic Brazilian dishes like picanha steak or a Bahian seafood moqueca, plus classic appetizers and caipirinhas.
Excellent fun learning experience! Friendly atmosphere, really good food and a very patient chef Alex!
— FRED (READ MORE REVIEWS)
Guided step-by-step, you’ll create these traditional recipes using easily sourced ingredients so that you can recreate the magic back home.
Once everything is ready, you’ll sit down with your instructor and new friends to savor your creations. An optional market tour beforehand is highly recommended for anyone looking for gifts or fresh local ingredients.
👩🍳 Beginner and experienced chefs are welcome on these Rio de janeiro tour packages for chefs.
Best Rio de Janeiro Tours
11. Football Match in Rio de Janeiro
⭐️ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 6 hours | ⚽ BOOK NOW
Discover the thrill of a soccer match in Rio on this Maracana Soccer Experience.
Join the passionate, local crowd at one of the city’s iconic stadiums. Your local guide will help you learn the cheers and anthems. You can also gain insights into the history and traditions of futbol in Rio.
My family had an amazing time going to the match! Michael, our tour guide, was terrific and helped us weave through the mass of fans outside and inside the stadium.
— MIKE (READ MORE REVIEWS)
This experience includes a general admission ticket. You will also have convenient round-trip transportation from your hotel sorted out for you.
This is one of the amazing day tours from Rio de Janeiro if you want to embrace the local football fervor. You will be surrounded by over 100,000 fans, all enjoying the excitement of the game.
Best Rio de Janeiro Tours
12. Pedra do Telégrafo Hiking & Relax in a Wild Beach
⭐️ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 6 hours | 🏖 BOOK NOW
Ready to dangle on the edge of a rock and get an epic picture? It’s time to head out on this hike to Pedra do Telegrafo.
You will climb through the lush forest to reach the renowned viewpoint. There, you can take photos. Make sure to get one with the optical illusion of hanging over the edge. Don’t worry; it only looks like you are hanging. There is actually a piece of rock right underneath.
The hike on the way up is easy to medium and has some great lookout points, Telegrafo obviously being the best!
— SANORA (READ MORE REVIEWS)
You will be able to see the breathtaking panoramic vistas of Rio de Janeiro. This includes the coastline, beaches, and ocean.
After the hike on this Rio day trip is complete, you will have time to pause at the pristine Grumari Beach. Enjoy the soft sand and dip into the ocean before returning to your hotel.
Best Rio de Janeiro Tours
13. Sailing Experience in Rio
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | ⛵ BOOK NOW
Looking for a unique perspective of Rio’s landmarks? Go for a sail on a 40-foot yacht on This Sailing Experience in Rio de Janeiro.
This is one of the best Rio de Janeiro boat tours. You will see Christ the Redeemer, Sugar Loaf, and more. You will also pass Oscar Niemeyer’s masterpiece, the Contemporary Art Museum.
The views and the friendliness of the crew. Would definitely recommend this sailing experience in Rio.
— JOYCE (READ MORE REVIEWS)
On this three-hour journey, you will start with a welcome drink. There are some snacks to enjoy throughout. As you cruise, you will learn more about Rio’s history.
The boat tour is intimate, limited to just 20 passengers.
Best Rio de Janeiro Tours
14. Rocinha Favela Walking Tour with a Local Guide
⭐️ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | 🚶 BOOK NOW
Enjoy a comprehensive local experience on this Guided Walking Tour through Rocinha. Rocinha is not only one of Rio’s favelas but the largest favela in Brazil, home to around 200,000 residents.
During the walking tour, your local guide will share unique insights into daily life and discuss the challenges confronted by these communities.
Incredible morning with a fantastic guide. I cannot recommend Alberto highly enough! Probably the best guide I have ever had on any tour in any country.
— EMM (READ MORE REVIEWS)
Your Rocinha favela walking tour is an opportunity to understand the complexities of life in Rio’s slums. One of the best Rio de Janeiro favela tours, this tour also includes the cost includes a contribution to the community.
Best Rio de Janeiro Tours
15. Pub Crawl in Lapa with Cachaça Tasting and Live Samba
⭐️ RATING: 4.9 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 4 hours | 💃 BOOK NOW
Want to explore Rio de Janeiro’s nightlife and immerse yourself in the local culture? Look no further than this Pub Crawl in Lapa with Cachaça Tasting and Live Sambal, an exciting adventure through the city’s bohemian district.
The tour begins at a classic cachaça bar, where you will sample at least four flavors of the classic drink. Then, you will go to the iconic Arcos da Lapa, where you can have a Caipirinha and explore the famous food stalls.
I highly recommend. The tour was much better than expected. Pietro is a great guide and he is also a local DJ who knows many people in the area.
— Malgorzata (READ MORE REVIEWS)
This Rio de Janeiro city tour also brings you past the famous Selarón staircase. Finally you will head to see live Samba at a local bar. Then you’ll head to a Brazilian nightclub, dancing until the early hours.
For a personalized experience, this tour includes a knowledgeable local guide with a limited group size, making this one of the best nightlife Rio de Janeiro city tours.
Best Rio de Janeiro Tours
Rio de Janeiro: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Rio Worth The Hype?
Absolutely, Rio de Janeiro lives up to its reputation. The city is known for its breathtaking landscapes, culture, and lively atmosphere.
It offers a unique blend of natural beauty and city excitement. Of course there are the iconic landmarks, such as Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain. This all makes Rio a must-visit destination.
What do tourists typically do when visiting Rio de Janeiro?
There are many activities for tourists in Rio de Janeiro. The most famous activity in Rio is hands-down visiting the Christ the Redeemer statue atop Corcovado Mountain, which offers panoramic views of the city.
But that is not the only thing to do in Rio de Janeiro. You can spend time at famous beaches like Copacabana and Ipanema, known for their golden sands and beach culture.
Once you are done at the beach, you can explore the city’s historical sites, such as the São Bento Monastery or the cobblestone streets of Santa Teresa.
Additionally, if you love outdoor activities, you can go hiking, hang gliding, or surfing at Prainha Beach.
There is so much to do in Rio de Janeiro, whatever your travel-style.
How many days do you need to see Rio de Janeiro?
While any time spent in Rio is valuable, a stay of at least four to five days is a good amount. This allows you to fully appreciate Rio’s diverse offerings.
You can explore major landmarks. You can also take part in cultural experiences. And, of course, there will be time to enjoy the nightlife without feeling rushed.
What is the best time of year to go to Rio de Janeiro?
Rio de Janeiro welcomes visitors with open arms all year round. Whether you’re a sun seeker or prefer milder temperatures, there’s something for everyone.
Summer, from December to March, brings warm temperatures averaging between 21°C to 29°C (70°F to 85°F), perfect for beach days and outdoor adventures.
🥵 Be aware that temperatures can get very hot in the summer. Although no normal, there have been instances in the past where daytime temperatures reaching highs of 58°C (136°F) — that’s hot.
Plus, it’s the season of celebrations like New Year’s and the world-famous Carnival, adding an extra spark to your visit.
On the other hand, winter, from June to September, offers a slightly cooler climate ranging from 18°C to 25°C (65°F to 77°F). It’s still beach weather but with fewer crowds, making it a great time to explore Rio’s attractions at your own pace.
Whether you’re drawn to the excitement of summer or the laid-back vibe of winter, Rio de Janeiro is a year-round destination.
Is Rio expensive for tourists?
Rio de Janeiro offers various budget options for travelers, catering to different spending levels from budget to luxury.
For budget travelers, daily expenses average around R$423 (USD 78), including food, local transportation, and entertainment. On average, mid-range travelers spend around R $ 667 (USD 123) per day, covering accommodation, meals, and activities.
For travellers looking for a luxury experience, daily expenses can rise significantly, averaging around R$1,000 ($185 USD) or more, depending on the choice of finer dining and higher-end hotels.
Is Rio de Janeiro safe?
It can be! While Rio has areas with higher crime rates, the city has been actively working to become safer. It is a good idea to stay in well-traveled areas and make sure to stay vigilant at all times.
So, is Rio de Janeiro safe for tourists? The answer is a resounding YES. I always feel like many people compare Rio to the movie The Purge, where rules don’t exist, and everyone is running around with guns and shooting at each other.
But that’s far from the truth. Most tourists who visit Rio have a great time and don’t run into trouble. Most of the time, in terms of crime, tourists may encounter petty theft. Your cell phone might be snatched from your hand, for example. Although violent crimes do happen, they aren’t common.
🤔 If you want to learn more about some safety tips for Rio de Janeiro read this article: Is Rio de Janeiro Safe? 10 Safety Tips To Stay Safe.
Final Thoughts: Best Rio de Janeiro Tours
Exploring these Rio de Janeiro tour packages can be lots of fun. Rio de Brazil has a lot to offer. Rio de Janeiro tourism includes iconic landmarks like Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf. Having a private tour guide will make your experience so much better.
Still, Don’t Know Which Tour To Book?
One of the best Rio de Janeiro tours is this Private Custom Full-Day Highlights in Rio, with a perfect ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating 😊❤️.
Tours like hang gliding, sailing, and exploring favelas are great way to explore the city. Whether it’s a hop on hop off Rio de Janeiro tour, a helicopter flight, or a pub crawl in Lapa, the city caters to various preferences.
If you’re looking to explore more of South America, don’t miss excursions to nearby Angra dos Reis and Ilha Grande. So make sure to find the Rio de Janeiro city tour that is best for you.
