Rio de Janerio
Dec. 21 - 24, 2023 (4D3N): At the end of our Antarctica journey, we took advantage of being in South America by visiting Rio before flying back to JFK from Buenos Aires. Known for its iconic beaches, vibrant Carnaval, and breathtaking landscapes, Rio offers travelers a mix of natural beauty and urban culture. Visiting the Santa Marta Favala was one of the most humbling experiences. Don’t forget to drink as many caipirinhas as possible!
*Highly Recommended for food & drinks
Day 1
Afternoon arrival at GIG from AEP (direct via LATAM)
3 pm: Check-in @ Airbnb* (Atlantico Flat Service; Uber ride took about 1.5 hr during rush hour but very affordable - $18)
Early dinner @ Novo
Sunset @ Mureta da Urca
Day 2
9:30-12 pm: The best Free walking tour in Rio
Gelato @ Confeitaria Colombo*
Lunch @ Amor Quiosque in Copacabana
Ipanema:
Dinner @ Boteco Belmonte*
Gelato @ Momo Gelato Ipanema
Shop @ Havaianas
Day 3
9 am: Christ the Redeemer*(High Season R$122.5; 8 am to 5/6 pm; suggested duration 1.5hrs including train ride; must visit in the morning to avoid the crowd and be able to see the statue)
40 mins RT Train ride from Cosme Velho (map Uber ride here) to Cristo Redentor
Chocolate & coffee @ Lugano Gramado*
Mirante Dona Marta* (free; a beautiful view of Christ the Redeemer and an overlook of the city)
Sugarloaf Mountain* (R$185; 8 am - 9 pm; suggested duration 1 hr)
Snacks @ Praia Vermelha
Lunch @ Gato Cafe*
2 - 4:30 pm: Favela Santa Marta Tour* (or Rocinha Lucky Tour - free walking tour to see Rocinha)
Funicular to the top
Church
Local bar
Sunset @ Praia do Leme
Lapa:
Dinner @ Boteco Belmonte
Cocktails @ Cafe Cultural Sacrilegio* (good samba music)
Cachaca shots @ Bar da Cachaca* (for the cachaca shot lovers)
Day 4
Morning flight to JFK from GIG via Delta (access airport lounges via Priority Pass - Gol Smiles Lounge*)
Other points of interest & food:
Drinks @ Bar Carioca da Gema; Acadenua da Cachaca
Dine @ Cafe Lamas; Joaquina; Restaurante Shirley; Terra Brasillis; Plage Cafe; Árabe Urca
Shop @ Gilson Martins Copacabana
Tips:
For first-time visitors, an accommodation in Ipanema would provide a younger vibe.
Be wary of handling your cell phones in public
Rio is located in the Southern Hemisphere, so hit up the beaches between December and March for some heat.
To avoid crowds at Christ the Redeemer, look for a helicopter tour.
Make sure you only go up to Sugarloaf on a clear day; sunset is the best time to visit but we enjoyed it during the middle of the day.
If you are looking for the best souvenirs, grab some pairs of Havaianas!!
