TRAVEL | A JOURNEY THROUGH RIO DE JANEIRO

TRAVEL |  A JOURNEY THROUGH RIO DE JANEIRO

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Rio de Janeiro, a city often synonymous with Carnival, samba, and stunning beaches, has much more to offer beyond its world-famous festivals. My recent trip to this vibrant city revealed a multifaceted cultural and historical experience that goes far beyond the typical tourist attractions. From the colorful streets of Santa Teresa to the profound history of Little Africa, Rio’s dynamic mix of old and new left me in awe. In this blog post, I’ll take you through the highlights of my journey, giving you a glimpse into the activities and places I explored during my time in the marvelous city of Rio..

Escadaria Selarón  santa teresa rio lapa

Day 1: The Colorful Charm of Escadaria Selarón and the Carnival Spirit

My trip began with a visit to the famous Escadaria Selarón, or the Selarón Steps. Created by Chilean artist Jorge Selarón, this staircase is one of Rio’s most iconic landmarks. It connects the neighborhoods of Lapa and Santa Teresa and is a work of art in itself, made from over 2,000 tiles collected from more than 60 countries. Walking up the steps, I couldn’t help but marvel at the sheer vibrancy and detail of this evolving masterpiece, which has become a symbol of Rio’s rich cultural diversity. It’s a must-see spot for anyone visiting the city, and it made for the perfect start to my adventure.

After capturing some photos at Escadaria Selarón, I headed to the Carnaval Experience. If you’ve ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes of Rio’s legendary Carnival, this is the place to find out. The tour took me through the history of the festival, from the elaborate costumes to the samba rhythms that define Carnival. The experience even included a visit to one of the city’s samba schools, where the magic happens year-round as performers prepare for the next big event. The energy was contagious, and I left feeling more connected to the culture and history behind this world-famous celebration.

carnaval experience rio

Before wrapping up the day, I explored the Santa Teresa neighborhood, a hilltop district known for its bohemian atmosphere. Santa Teresa is home to narrow, winding streets lined with art studios, galleries, and beautifully preserved colonial mansions. The artistic vibe and the stunning views of downtown Rio make this neighborhood a favorite among locals and tourists alike. 

museum of art rio de janeiro

 Day 2: A Dive into Rio’s Art and Innovation

On my second day, I focused on exploring Rio’s museums, starting with the Rio Art Museum (Museu de Arte do Rio). Located in the revitalized port area of Praça Mauá, the museum houses an impressive collection of works that span from colonial times to contemporary pieces. What sets this museum apart is its emphasis on Rio’s identity and its transformation over time, offering visitors a chance to explore how the city has evolved socially, culturally, and historically. The exhibitions were thought-provoking and offered a deep dive into the city’s artistic heritage.

museum of tomorrow rio

Next on my itinerary was the Museum of Tomorrow (Museu do Amanhã), a futuristic science museum designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava. Located in the Porto Maravilha area, the building itself is a stunning piece of architecture, with sleek lines and a design that complements its message of sustainability and forward-thinking. The museum’s interactive exhibits focus on the challenges facing humanity, such as climate change and biodiversity, and invite visitors to think about what kind of future we want to create. It was both inspiring and humbling to see how technology and innovation can help shape a better tomorrow.

rio black culture history

 Day 3: Discovering the History of Little Africa

My third day in Rio took me to a deeply significant part of the city’s history: Little Africa. This area, once home to many Afro-Brazilian communities, is a place where Rio’s African heritage comes alive. I started my day at the Museum of Afro-Brazilian History and Culture (MUHCAB), which highlights the contributions of African descendants to Brazil’s culture, economy, and society. The exhibitions were powerful, offering a nuanced understanding of Brazil’s complex racial history and the enduring impact of African cultures on the country.

rio museum culture explore history

From there, I visited Valongo Wharf (Cais do Valongo), a UNESCO World Heritage site. This was the main entry point for more than a million enslaved Africans during the 18th and 19th centuries, making it one of the most important archaeological sites connected to the transatlantic slave trade. Walking through this historical area was a somber yet important experience, reminding me of the resilience and strength of the Afro-Brazilian community.

what to do in rio de janeiro

I continued my journey with a visit to the Research and Memory Institute of Pretos Novos (IPN), which preserves the history of the Cemitério dos Pretos Novos, a burial site for enslaved Africans who died soon after arriving in Rio. The IPN is dedicated to research and memory, and my visit was both educational and emotional, shedding light on a part of history that is often overlooked. My day ended with a visit to the Open Laboratory of Human Archaeology, where I learned more about the ongoing research into the lives of enslaved Africans in Brazil.

dining at Dois de Fevereiro, led by the renowned Chef João Diamante

At the end of the day I had the pleasure to be dining at Dois de Fevereiro, led by the renowned Chef João Diamante. The restaurant blends traditional Brazilian flavors with modern techniques, offering a culinary experience that is both innovative and rooted in Brazil’s rich heritage. Chef João Diamante’s story is as inspiring as his cuisine. Rising from humble beginnings, he trained at the prestigious École Alain Ducasse in Paris and worked at Le Jules Verne in Paris, France, at the Eiffel Tower. Beyond his talent in the kitchen, João is passionate about social impact, founding the Diamantes na Cozinha project, which provides culinary training to underprivileged youth in Brazil.

Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain

 Day 4: Iconic Views from Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain

My final day in Rio was dedicated to exploring two of the city’s most iconic landmarks. I started with a visit to Christ the Redeemer, the 30-meter-tall statue of Jesus Christ that stands atop Corcovado Mountain. The panoramic views from the summit were breathtaking, offering a stunning vantage point over Rio’s beaches, mountains, and urban landscape. It’s no wonder this site is considered one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Another culinary gem I experienced in Rio was Aprazível, nestled in the hills of Santa Teresa. After soaking in the views at Christ the Redeemer, I enjoyed a leisurely lunch at Aprazível, where the food was delicious and the setting serene—a perfect way to recharge before my next adventure. The restaurant is known for its breathtaking scenery and focuses on using organic, locally-sourced ingredients to create traditional Brazilian dishes with a contemporary twist.

Although Aprazível has not earned a Michelin star, it is featured in the Michelin Guide for its outstanding quality and memorable dining experience. Its inclusion in the guide highlights its reputation as one of Rio’s top dining destinations, making it a must-visit for anyone wanting to indulge in the city’s vibrant food scene while enjoying stunning views.

Aprazível dining in rio Michelin star, Michelin Guide

I wrapped up my trip with a visit to Sugarloaf Mountain (Pão de Açúcar), where I took the famous cable car ride to the top. The 360-degree views of Rio from Sugarloaf are simply unbeatable, and watching the sunset from this vantage point was the perfect way to end my journey. As the sun dipped below the horizon, I reflected on everything I had experienced in this incredible city—from its vibrant art and culture to its deep history and stunning natural beauty.

Rio de Janeiro is a city that truly has it all: rich culture, profound history, and breathtaking landscapes. My journey took me from the lively steps of Escadaria Selarón to the heights of Sugarloaf Mountain, and along the way, I learned so much about the people, traditions, and stories that make this city unique. Whether you’re drawn to Rio for its Carnival festivities or its world-class museums, there’s something here for everyone. Rio’s spirit is contagious, and I can’t wait to return and explore even more of what this vibrant city has to offer.