Rio de Janeiro, or “the river of January”, owes its beautiful name to a mistake! In fact, as Portuguese explorers saw the large jagged bay they thought it was the mouth of a river… Instead, it was just a bunch of beautiful islands facing the shore, that would become the symbol of the liveliest city in Brazil. Today, Rio is synonymous with samba, carnival and sunny beaches. But those who will explore it more deeply will also discover much (much!) more.
Best period to visit Rio de Janeiro
Brazil does not have any real seasons. There is a “rainy” period and a “hot” period. The latter is from December to March and is characterized by very hot days (temperatures even over 40°C ) that may seem bad for a vacation. But the alternative is to visit Rio in the months of heavy rains and floods. So, even if it will be hot, we recommend the period between December and March. Or if you want to avoid hot days, try the beginning of December or the beginning of April.
Travel documents
If you plan your trip to Brazil in particular, you need a passport, with residual validity of at least 6 (six) months from the day of entry into the country and 2 blank pages left. An entry visa is not required for stays up to 90 days.
What to pack for your trip to Rio de Janeiro
Since Brazil, and Rio in particular, should be explored in the warmer season, it is a must to pack light, short-sleeved clothing, even short trousers and skirts are fine… and of course swimsuits and beach gear. Don’t forget hats, tennis shoes and sandals, sunscreen and mosquito repellent.
In this regard, Brazil records mosquito-borne diseases (such as Dengue) every year so make sure you have VERY good repellents with you, even more than one, if needed. Talk to your doctor about this, before you leave and make sure to bring a first-aid kit and to take out good medical insurance beforehand.
Elegant clothes are not a “must”. In Rio you can go to ceremonies even in casual clothes… and it is not a problem to mix bright colors. Here, the “carioca fashion” is almost a citizenship symbol!
How to get to Rio de Janeiro
Two international airports do serve Rio de Janeiro and its region: Rio de Janeiro Airport (GIG) and Dumont Airport (SDU).
Rio de Janeiro’s main airport (Rio-Galeão – GIG) opened in 1923 as an aviation school and developed as a military airbase during World War 2. But it was only in the 1950s that, in order to help the old airport supporting the increase in air traffic, it was converted into a civilian airport. Modernized during the 20th century, today it is one of the most important airports in Brazil and handles national, international and regional flights. It uses 2 terminals and 2 runways, serving about 10 million passengers per year.
Rio de Janeiro-Dumont Airport (SDU) has a long history that starts from 1934 and is linked to seaplanes at the beginning, to then continue in the following decades with airplanes. It handled both domestic and international flights for the city of Rio before being overtaken by the new hub. Today, mainly domestic flights depart and land here, but it is not uncommon for some South American companies to also be hosted here. The airport has 1 large terminal building and 2 runways. The annual passenger traffic is 7 million people.
If you are already in Brazil, or neighbouring nations, you can reach Rio by bus. There are interregional bus companies that connect the most important cities and capitals of the continent. Bus trips can be tiring, anyway, even though they are much cheaper.
How to move through Rio de Janeiro
Rio de Janeiro offers a good choice of public and private transfers. Rio’s buses are cheap and easy to find, in the city, but they are often late and “badly frequented”… so be careful of taking with you money and precious objects. Rio has got a metro train working from early morning up to midnight, all 7 days in the week. On Sundays the metro runs on reduced hours.
Taxis are everywhere in the city, they are a comfortable and easy way to travel around. Be careful and do not trust “any car” showing the word “taxi”… take good information about the official taxi companies in the city.
If you want more independence and convenience, just find a car rental agency: but make sure you know how to drive on the streets of a difficult and high-traffic city as Rio! Your better choice could be a private transfer, such as Transfeero. You will have the possibility to travel by taxi with chauffeur or by navette, and decide your vehicle and rates.
Tourists can enjoy traveling through Rio by the old traditional tram line, still existing, or by tourist buses.
What to see
Nestled between lush mountains and the sparkling Atlantic Ocean, Rio de Janeiro boasts some of the most beautiful urban beaches in the world, including the world-famous Copacabana and Ipanema. The golden sands and azure waters invite relaxation and recreation, while the nearby National Parks offer a verdant escape with hiking trails through the world’s largest urban rainforest.
Beyond its natural and festive attractions, Rio’s cultural scene thrives with museums, art galleries, and theaters. Delve into the history at the National Museum of Brazil or appreciate contemporary art at the Museum of Modern Art. When it comes to cuisine, treat your taste buds to a culinary journey through Rio’s diverse food scene, sampling traditional dishes like feijoada and fresh seafood, all while enjoying the city’s laid-back beach culture. Keep curiosity high as you admire historical buildings (Old Cathedral of Carmel, New Cathedral, Sambadrome), or the temple of football Maracanã Stadium, or the Ruinas Park, while eating some very delicious recipes and enjoying the music of samba! You cannot miss a visit to the great statue of Christ the Redeemer, overlooking the whole bay from above.
February is a warm summer month in Brazil’s area, so the Carnival here is a celebration of freedom and happiness. Join the euphoria during Rio’s Carnival, an explosion of color, music, and dance that epitomizes the city’s infectious energy. Witness as samba schools compete in the Sambadrome, showcasing intricate costumes and vibrant floats, an experience that remains unparalleled in its grandeur and excitement.
What to do and NOT to do in Rio de Janeiro
When you come to visit Rio de Janeiro you know your “must do” things are: sunbathing on the beaches, dance samba, take a selfie with the city view behind you from the Christ the Redeemer’s balcony, enjoy the typical brazilian food. And, of course, take part in the magic Carnival, in February.
In Rio you better don’t:
- walk alone through desert streets;
- walk alone at night;
- show cash money and jewels on local buses;
- walk alone – or in couple – through Copacabana, Santa Teresa, Lapa districts and the whole western area of the city, especially at night;
take your papers and documents with you (much better a photocopy);
- argue, fight or reply to aggressive or provocative people in the streets, clubs and suburbs.
(PHOTO BY ASSY – Pixabay )