Favela Tour: Discover Rio's Art, Culture, and Daily Life

Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Rio de Janeiro’s favelas on a private tour. Discover the local way of life and support a meaningful social project called ‘Harvesting the Future’.

Duration: 3 hours
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights
  • Mirante Dona Marta - Guided tour by a guide who lives in the favela, learning about all the art, culture and social projects that boost the community and the well-being of the favela!
  • Michael Jackson Statue - They will visit the statue of Michael Jackson, which became a tourist attraction in Rio de Janeiro, after the pop star came to the…
What's Included
  • Train ride
  • Visit Michael Jackson statue
  • Social Project visit
  • Neighborhood Association tour
What's Not Included
  • Dinner
Additional Information

A unique opportunity for tourists who want to experience the true essence of Rio de Janeiro. With a guide who is a resident of the community, you will have access to an authentic and enriching perspective, getting to know the art, culture and daily life of the locals up close. During the tour, you will visit iconic landmarks, such as the famous statue…

Location
R. Mal. Francisco de Moura, 7
Rua Marechal Francisco de Moura
Tourist Information Stand at Favela Santa Marta
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
5.0
(36 Ratings)
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Nickce8950yy
Nov 2, 2024
fantastic tour - Was in Rio de Janeiro in mid-October and found this tour on Tripadvisor. I met Mario at the designated location right on schedule and ended up being the only person on the tour. We took the cable car to the top of the Favala and then walked down to the bottom of the neighborhood. Along the way Mario talked about the history of the area, and its people. We met some of the residents along the way who were all very friendly. Mario was very knowledgable and passionate about his community. I felt very at ease on the tour being with someone who was not only from the neighborhood but knew so many of his neighbors. I would highly recommend this tour
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Aladdiin
Oct 9, 2024
Keywords are "unique" & "reality" - Been to Rio 4 times but this was the first time visiting the favela. This is probably among the best things I've done in Rio, ever! Although one sees an unfortunate and surreal reality, another side of community and familiarity is seen (plus stunning views of Rio!) With people singing och socializing. In addition to showing his home in the favela of Santa Marta, Mario also gave the historical context of the favela while we walked the typical (and fascinating) labyrinth-like steps and hallways. It was like walking through Brazilian history...it doesn't get much more real than this! The keywords here are "unique" and "reality".
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Paradise19929914818
Sep 5, 2024
A great experience!! - We took this tour out of curiosity and actually the experience was amazing, getting to know more of these famous and named places was great and especially the person who made the tour, as it provided us with the confidence and safety of the neighborhood. 100% recommended!!!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Nazanin_j
Jan 3, 2024
The best tour we had - discover the real Brazil and feel safe! - I rarely write reviews but this tour was so heart-warming that I would like to share it with all. We were staying in copacabana and very worried how safe it will be to go to favella. To our surprise, our guide was the sweetest person who made us feel safe at every moment. It was even safe to have our mobile phones with us and take pictures. The guide is well-respected in favella and they are like community where everyone knows each other. You will see colorful, real Brazil and leave with good memories. Our guide was actually born and raised in this Favella and we even visited his house. I highly recommend the tour regardless if you are female solo traveller, couple, or family - The best tour we had of all!
Review provided by Viator
Mariagondo
Sep 28, 2022
Favela de Santa Marta with Marco - Marco gave me and my friend a private tour of the Santa Marta favela. He was born and raised there and he currently lives there, that made the tour even better because he new all about it. It was a great tour. He’s very nice and kind. I highly recommend this tour and Marco as the guide.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Ebony_l
Mar 10, 2022
Our guide was an actual... - Our guide was an actual resident of the Santa Marta Favela. You will explore this favela with him as he shows your around every little nook and cranny. It is very safe but this is a true-to-life tour. You will see "everything".
Review provided by Viator
Torianna
Jul 1, 2021
Great experience! - Marco gave me a private tour of the Santa Marta favela. I felt safe with him. He was born and raised there and he currently lives there. It was a great tour. I was able to understand his English. He’s very knowledgeable and kind. I highly recommend this tour and Marco as the guide.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Bashalla
Sep 29, 2020
Recommended - Wonderful , friendly guide, real insight into the history of a favela! Highly recommended. Felt safe at all times; make sure you wait outside travel information booth- are ended up a little confused.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Ludipin
Mar 5, 2020
Real and safe experience in Santa Marta - We had a great tour in Santa Marta favela thanks to Marco. He gave us a good insight of what it's like to live in a favela. We could feel he was really proud of being born here and sharing his knowledge of the favela. He took his time and was happy to answer any questions we had. We were lucky enough to see a samba show too!!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Florin
Mar 6, 2020
Very interesting tour of favela Santa Marta, in safety with a local guide - We had a very interesting 2 hour tour of the very colorful Santa Marta favela in Rio de Janeiro, with Mario Sergio. Mario is a registered local guide, born and living in this favela, and made us see and understand the place and the people living there. Do not hesitate to visit, we felt very safe with him. Highly recommended!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
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up to 15 guests
1 Adult
December 2024
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