Vidigal Favela Tour: Experience Real Rio with Local Guide Russo

Embark on a Vidigal Favela Tour with local guide Russo and experience the real Rio. Explore the Sitiê Ecological Park, Vidigal Olympic Village, Arvrão viewpoint, Pope’s Chapel, and vibrant graffiti art.

Duration: 3 hours
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights
  • Leblon Beach - Venue Location: Sheraton Hotel
  • Vidigal Beach - Venue: Sheraton Hotel
  • Morro Dois Irmaos - The Favela where the tour will be held is located at Morro Dois Irmãos
What's Included
  • Licensed tour guide
What's Not Included
  • Drinks and Meals
Additional Information

Get a genuine taste of the past and present Favela!
With two decades of experience rooted in Vidigal, Russo Guia spent 17 years operating a local business and has been a guide for over two years now. With him, you get a unique perspective only a local can offer, while also contributing to appreciating local culture.
Equipped with training from the…

Location
Sheraton Grand Rio Hotel & Resort
Avenida Niemeyer
We will contact you with your reservation with more details about the meeting point.
Cancellation Policy

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

Customer Ratings
5.0
(300 Ratings)
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David_s
Feb 15, 2025
Must do!! Excellent tour with Russo - Excellent Tour! We had a fabulous time with Russo. Was an authentic experience!! Would highly recommend
Review provided by Viator
Cmoseley
Jan 28, 2025
Colorful Neighborhood Tour - Wonderful Tour with Russo that brought the neighborhood to life, not just with his stories but the personal interactions with friendly people. Recommended!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Jenna_p
Jan 27, 2025
Great experience! Very... - Great experience! Very knowledgeable and would recommend to others. It was a lot of stairs walking so be prepared before.
Review provided by Viator
Jose
Jan 27, 2025
Recommended 100% - Was great, you’ll have great views of Rio, plus live the experience of a Favela. Definitely worth it. Russo takes great pictures.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Danakavictoria_m
Jan 25, 2025
Must Do Tour in Vidigal - If you’re looking for a truly unique and authentic experience in Rio, the Vidigal Walking Tour with Russo Guia is an absolute must! This was one of the most exciting and memorable parts of our trip, and we left with a deeper appreciation for Vidigal and its vibrant community. Our adventure began with a small hiccup—our Uber dropped us off at the wrong place. Pro tip: head straight to the Sheraton Hotel to meet Russo, as it’s the easiest and most reliable spot. Once we connected with him, the tour began, and it was incredible from start to finish. Russo is a phenomenal guide who speaks perfect English and Portuguese, making the tour accessible and enjoyable for everyone. As a lifelong resident of Vidigal, Russo’s deep connection to the area and his engaging storytelling made every stop on the tour feel personal and meaningful. The tour highlights were unforgettable. We explored the Sitiê Ecological Park, a former dump turned into a beautiful garden and educational space, admired the colorful Olympic Village graffiti court, and marveled at the stunning panoramic views from Arvrão, home to some of the best bars in Vidigal. The Pope’s Chapel added a serene, historical element, while the graffiti art at the Arts Shortcut was a creative showcase of local and international talent. We enjoyed Vidigal so much that we came back the next day on our own. This time, we took a taxi to the top of the hill to explore the iconic bars. First, we checked out Bar De Laje, which had great music, good vibes, and a luxurious look and feel. Next, we headed to Mirante do Arvrão, where we snagged a cozy corner spot offering a 5-star view of the city—absolutely breathtaking! The bars were lively, filled with energy, and accepted credit cards and Apple Pay, which was super convenient. For the way down, we hopped on a local van, which was another fun experience, and then caught an Uber back to our hotel in Copacabana. One thing to note: you’ll pay a small security fee to local kids, so be sure to bring small bills, as no one ever seemed to have change. This tour is about so much more than sightseeing—it’s a cultural journey filled with laughter, stunning views, and a deep connection to the heart of Vidigal. Thank you, Russo, for giving us such a memorable experience! Don’t hesitate—book this tour and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Rio!
Review provided by Viator
Gailene_b
Jan 23, 2025
Bravo!!!!! - This tour did not disappoint at all. The tour guide was very knowledgeable and patient.. Must see!!!
Review provided by Viator
Darren_h
Jan 19, 2025
Great quick little trip... - Great quick little trip and informative, would recommend to anyone wanting to learn more about the culture and community here
Review provided by Viator
K2930uzcristianec
Jan 16, 2025
Sensational - Wonderful tour, I went with my daughter, on 13/01/25. The Russian is very nice, the view is wonderful, the best of Rio. I recommend!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Lucassk7321nm
Jan 16, 2025
Very good! - Sensational walk! Calm and safe. We know the history of the community and the daily life of Vidigal. Russian is very friendly and a great guide. I highly recommend the experience.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Anonymous
Jan 24, 2025
goog tour, good guide. - Good detailed tour. English level 6/10. Good detailed tour. English level 6/10. Good detailed tour. English level 6/10.
Review provided by Viator
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up to 15 guests
1 Adult
March 2025
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