6 best things to do in Rio de Janeiro
Rio de Janeiro is as sexy, curvy, and exotic as its ladies who sway in its annual carnival. While you most certainly will end up dancing till the wee hours of the morning, you will also walk through lush forests and parks right inside the city and hang out with monkeys and toucans, something you can do in few cities. Everyone knows about the ostentatious parades, costumes, and dances, but we doubt you know these interesting things to do in the city.
Rio’s Carnival
For every true-blue party lover, there’s only one party that’s the real deal — Rio de Janeiro’s annual Carnival. The carnival starts on Friday and ends on ‘Fat Tuesday’ with music blaring and beer flowing, anyone can join in and dance for five days straight. The origins of Rio’s famed carnival can be traced back to the 18th century when it was introduced by Portuguese immigrants. Then called ‘Entrudo’, it was celebrated by energetic crowds by playfully throwing limes, water, flour and mud at each other.
Tijuca Forest
Tijuca has cover over 32 sq.km it is one of the largest urban forests in the world. This wonderfully preserved jungle is abounding with lush trees, waterfalls, and mountains. Wandering on the forest’s well-marked trails, you’ll bump into Capuchin monkeys, quatis (Brazilian raccoons), butterflies and plenty of colorful birds. The adventurous can climb up the 1,012m high Pico da Tijuca peak.
Metropolitan Cathedral of Rio de Janeiro
Metropolitan Cathedral of Rio de Janeiro is unlike any church you’ve seen. It was designed by Edgar Fonseca in a modern architectural style based on Mayan pyramids. From inside, the church seems like a futuristic technicolor pyramid. Don’t forget to check out the Museu de Arte Sacra in the basement.
Sugar Loaf Mountain (Pão de Açúcar)
No place can offer better views of Rio than Sugar Loaf Mountain. Take two cable-car rides up to its top, preferably at sundown. Once atop, you’ll know why Rio’s anthem is aptly titled Cidade Maravilhosa (Marvelous City). It really is breathtakingly marvelous! On your west lies the Cristo Redentor (Christ the Redeemer) while the famed Copacabana beach is on the south.
Copacabana Beach
Few cities can boast of a 4km long white sand beach right in the heart of the city. Rio de Janeiro is one of them. The beautifully scalloped beach of Copacabana is where Rio comes to chill. Abuzz with activity, here, you’ll find locals and tourists sun bathing, energetic football players, and plenty of beach vendors.
Museu Historico Nacional
Museu Historica Nacional is a must-visit for all those interested in Brazil’s history. Learn about the country’s past, right from its founding to its initial period as a republic through a series of interesting historic relics. Make sure to check out the Imperial throne of Dom Pedro II of Brazil, the Royal throne of King John VI of Portugal, and paintings depicting the war with Paraguay.
