TRANSKRIBEERI 🔗
WEBVTT
00:00:00.000 --> 00:00:05.360
If you're traveling to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, there are some things you need to know before you get here.
00:00:05.519 --> 00:00:13.599
I just spent a week exploring every corner of Rio with a local guide, and these are my 20 most important Rio travel tips.
00:00:13.759 --> 00:00:19.359
And stick around to the end because I'm sharing the biggest mistake people make on their first trip to Rio.
00:00:19.600 --> 00:00:24.960
Welcome to the Alex Travels Far podcast, where I take you around the world one adventure at a time.
00:00:25.120 --> 00:00:32.799
I'm Alex, I'm a traveler on a mission to explore the best destinations, uncover hidden gems, and dive deep into local cultures.
00:00:33.039 --> 00:00:36.719
We're going beyond the guidebooks and into the real heart of travel.
00:00:36.880 --> 00:00:40.560
So sit back, relax, and let's travel far together.
00:00:40.799 --> 00:00:43.520
Is Rio de Janeiro safe for tourists?
00:00:43.679 --> 00:00:44.479
Absolutely.
00:00:44.640 --> 00:00:46.560
Based on my experience, yes.
00:00:46.799 --> 00:00:49.679
This was probably the biggest surprise of my trip.
00:00:49.840 --> 00:00:54.079
Coming from the United States, I expected Rio to feel much more dangerous.
00:00:54.240 --> 00:01:01.600
Instead, I personally felt safer walking around Rio than I have in parts of New York or Los Angeles.
00:01:01.759 --> 00:01:04.959
And I saw police everywhere in the main tourist areas.
00:01:05.120 --> 00:01:15.599
Obviously, use common sense, don't flash valuables, pay attention when using your phone, and don't wander into unfamiliar neighborhoods or favelas without somebody who knows the area.
00:01:15.760 --> 00:01:20.319
But after five days all over Rio, I never personally felt threatened.
00:01:20.480 --> 00:01:22.799
Do Americans need a visa for Brazil?
00:01:22.959 --> 00:01:23.359
Yes.
00:01:23.519 --> 00:01:29.680
If you're traveling on an American passport, you need to get your Brazil e-visa before your trip.
00:01:29.840 --> 00:01:33.040
The application is online, but don't wait until the last minute.
00:01:33.200 --> 00:01:38.879
Approval could take several business days, and they're surprisingly strict about the photo requirements.
00:01:39.040 --> 00:01:41.200
Get it done early and then forget about it.
00:01:41.359 --> 00:01:43.680
Where should you stay in Rio de Janeiro?
00:01:43.840 --> 00:01:44.480
Ipanima.
00:01:44.799 --> 00:01:49.120
Most first-time visitors are probably choosing between Copacabana and Ipanima.
00:01:49.280 --> 00:01:55.840
Copacabana reminded me of South Beach in Miami, famous, busy, and packed with tourists.
00:01:56.079 --> 00:02:03.040
Ipanema felt more laid back, more local, and a little more upscale without being dramatically more expensive.
00:02:03.200 --> 00:02:05.840
Visit Copacabana, stay in Ipanima.
00:02:06.000 --> 00:02:08.879
Should you stay in a hotel or an Airbnb in Rio?
00:02:09.120 --> 00:02:10.479
I choose Airbnb.
00:02:10.560
Load full transcript
--> 00:02:15.840
When I searched Empanima, there were way more Airbnb options than hotels that worked for me.
00:02:16.000 --> 00:02:22.159
My flight also landed at 4 in the morning, so I booked the Airbnb starting the previous night.
00:02:22.319 --> 00:02:27.199
I can go directly there, leave my luggage securely in my room, and start exploring.
00:02:27.360 --> 00:02:35.360
I basically paid for an extra night just to avoid dealing with my suitcase at four in the morning and baggage storage worth it.
00:02:35.520 --> 00:02:38.159
How do you get from Rio Airport to your hotel?
00:02:38.319 --> 00:02:41.120
What's the best way to get from Rio Airport to your hotel?
00:02:41.360 --> 00:02:41.840
Uber.
00:02:42.000 --> 00:02:49.599
I landed at the International Airport at four in the morning, followed the airport signs to Uber pickup area, and had no problem getting a ride.
00:02:49.680 --> 00:02:56.719
You'll probably have people approach you offering you transportation and a taxi and asking you if they're or telling you they're better than an Uber.
00:02:56.879 --> 00:03:01.439
No matter how friendly they are, politely say no and order your ride through the app.
00:03:01.599 --> 00:03:04.240
What is the best way to get around Rio de Janeiro?
00:03:04.479 --> 00:03:05.120
Motorbike.
00:03:05.280 --> 00:03:11.039
You need to get comfortable riding on the back of a motorcycle because Rio traffic can be brutal.
00:03:11.280 --> 00:03:16.000
A motorcycle can cut a long trip sitting in traffic just dramatically.
00:03:16.159 --> 00:03:20.639
And even if you're traveling with someone else, have each person order their own motorcycle.
00:03:20.719 --> 00:03:23.360
They give you a helmet, you hop on, and you go.
00:03:23.520 --> 00:03:33.439
The expectations, it's a little crazy, but maybe the metro for a huge event like a football match, and obviously ride with your driver if you hired a private guide.
00:03:33.599 --> 00:03:41.520
But other than that, or to get tuned from the airport with their suitcases, I wouldn't waste my time sitting in a regular Uber car in all that Rio traffic.
00:03:41.680 --> 00:03:43.520
Is Rio de Janeiro expensive?
00:03:43.680 --> 00:03:46.080
Not compared with a major US tourist city.
00:03:46.240 --> 00:03:54.800
A typical lunch can run$5 to$14 US dollars, dinner$10 to$24 US dollars, and coffee maybe$3 US dollars.
00:03:54.960 --> 00:04:00.159
For hotels, a typical double room averages around$130 a night.
00:04:00.319 --> 00:04:04.960
Although you can find options significantly cheaper or much more expensive.
00:04:05.199 --> 00:04:07.919
Transportation is also relatively inexpensive.
00:04:08.080 --> 00:04:14.159
You can absolutely spend a fortune in Rio if you want luxury hotels and expensive activities.
00:04:14.319 --> 00:04:18.160
But normal day-to-day travel can be surprisingly affordable.
00:04:18.319 --> 00:04:20.079
How many days do you need in Rio?
00:04:20.399 --> 00:04:25.920
Seven days, five days to actually explore, and two days as weather backups.
00:04:26.079 --> 00:04:32.000
Rio has too many weather-dependent experiences to book yourself solid for five straight days.
00:04:32.240 --> 00:04:35.600
Give yourself seven and move things around depending on the weather.
00:04:35.759 --> 00:04:38.639
What is the best time of year to visit Rio de Janeiro?
00:04:38.800 --> 00:04:42.879
I would go during Rio's winter, roughly summertime in the United States.
00:04:43.040 --> 00:04:45.600
I went in August and it was already pretty warm.
00:04:45.839 --> 00:04:52.560
Rio's summer is hotter, more humid, and includes carnival, which means massive crowds and higher prices.
00:04:52.720 --> 00:04:56.800
Unless you're specifically going to Rio for carnival, go during the cooler months.
00:04:56.959 --> 00:04:59.199
Do you need to speak Portuguese in Rio?
00:04:59.279 --> 00:04:59.600
No.
00:04:59.759 --> 00:05:06.399
Rio is a major tourist city, and I got by perfectly fine with English and all the major tourist areas.
00:05:06.560 --> 00:05:09.279
But learn a few basic greetings in Portuguese.
00:05:09.439 --> 00:05:12.160
It takes five minutes and locals appreciate the effort.
00:05:12.319 --> 00:05:17.839
Once you leave the tourist areas, that's when having someone who can translate becomes much more useful.
00:05:18.079 --> 00:05:19.920
Do you need a tour guide in Rio?
00:05:20.079 --> 00:05:21.839
Yes, but only a good one.
00:05:22.000 --> 00:05:31.920
A great guide lets you see more in less time, removes a lot of logistical stress, and gives you access to local interactions you'd probably never have on your own.
00:05:32.160 --> 00:05:37.439
For me, Miguel translated so much and just was a huge, huge advantage.
00:05:37.600 --> 00:05:38.800
But do your research.
00:05:38.959 --> 00:05:45.199
You want someone who helps you experience Rio, not someone who simply drives you between tourist attractions.
00:05:45.439 --> 00:05:49.920
I would 100% recommend my guide, Miguel, his information's in the description.
00:05:50.079 --> 00:05:52.399
Where should you go for authentic Rio nightlife?
00:05:52.560 --> 00:05:54.160
Get outside the tourist areas.
00:05:54.319 --> 00:05:58.639
One of my favorite nights was Ballet Charme de Marunia.
00:05:58.720 --> 00:06:03.680
It's an RB hip hop, soul, and just a huge group of locals dancing together.
00:06:03.839 --> 00:06:06.480
And personally, I'd skip Pedro de Sau.
00:06:06.720 --> 00:06:09.199
When I went, it was unbelievably crowded.
00:06:09.360 --> 00:06:14.639
There was barely enough room to move, and I did not feel comfortable in a crowd that dense.
00:06:14.879 --> 00:06:16.720
Ballet was much more memorable.
00:06:16.879 --> 00:06:20.000
Which Rio Beach is better, Ipanima or Copa Cabana?
00:06:20.240 --> 00:06:20.879
Ipanima.
00:06:21.120 --> 00:06:21.600
Easily.
00:06:21.839 --> 00:06:26.959
You absolutely need to visit both, but Ipanima felt more relaxed and less touristy.
00:06:27.120 --> 00:06:33.839
Copacabana
was fun to experience, especially at night, but it was much busier and more chaotic.
00:06:34.000 --> 00:06:36.879
Go see Copacabana, then go back to Ipanima.
00:06:37.040 --> 00:06:38.639
What food should you try in Rio?
00:06:38.959 --> 00:06:43.360
Start with Brazilian coffee and then go to the local market and start eating.
00:06:43.519 --> 00:06:48.319
Try the street food, fresh tropical fruit, and Portuguese-style egg tarts.
00:06:48.480 --> 00:06:52.800
And at least once, go to a real Brazilian steakhouse.
00:06:52.959 --> 00:07:00.800
It's basically an all-you-can-eat, just mega, mega steakhouse where the meat doesn't stop coming until you surrender.
00:07:00.959 --> 00:07:04.079
Is Guanabara Bay sunset cruise worth it?
00:07:04.240 --> 00:07:06.000
Yes, 100% worth it.
00:07:06.160 --> 00:07:13.279
Guanabara Bay, Rio's famous harbor, is commonly included on the list of the seven natural wonders of the world.
00:07:13.439 --> 00:07:18.399
My sunset sailing trip was around 50 US dollars with drinks and snacks included.
00:07:18.560 --> 00:07:22.560
We sailed through the bay, watched the sunset, and even jumped in for a swim.
00:07:22.879 --> 00:07:25.279
Don't just look at Rio's Harbor from above.
00:07:25.439 --> 00:07:27.920
Get out on the water and see it firsthand.
00:07:28.160 --> 00:07:30.879
What should you know before visiting Christ the Redeemer?
00:07:31.040 --> 00:07:35.839
Book the earliest tram ticket you can get on the clearest day possible.
00:07:36.000 --> 00:07:38.560
Even first thing in the morning, expect crowds.
00:07:38.879 --> 00:07:42.480
For pictures, have your photographer get extremely low on the ground.
00:07:42.639 --> 00:07:47.040
It'll help frame you with Christ while cutting out most of the people behind you.
00:07:47.199 --> 00:07:49.759
But once you have your pictures, put the phone away.
00:07:49.920 --> 00:07:57.199
You know, Christ the Redeemer is one of the new seven wonders of the world, and the spiritual energy was something I wasn't expecting.
00:07:57.439 --> 00:08:00.000
Get your photos, then actually experience it.
00:08:00.079 --> 00:08:02.319
And don't leave without giving Christ a hug.
00:08:02.480 --> 00:08:04.879
What are the best adventure activities in Rio?
00:08:05.279 --> 00:08:09.600
Three, doors off helicopter, paragliding and repelling.
00:08:09.759 --> 00:08:13.519
The helicopter was around$350 and easily the least scary.
00:08:13.680 --> 00:08:16.319
Pay extra for the doors off and a window position.
00:08:16.480 --> 00:08:21.839
Then paragliding, which was around$300 with all the extras like uh video.
00:08:22.079 --> 00:08:29.519
Definitely scarier, but sunrise repelling at Mordo Dozy Moes or Two Brothers was the craziest.
00:08:29.680 --> 00:08:36.799
Lowest fear factor was the helicopter, middle was paragliding, highest was repelling, but all three were worth it.
00:08:36.960 --> 00:08:39.120
Can tourists visit Rio's favelas?
00:08:39.279 --> 00:08:42.960
Yes, and I think you should, but only with a reputable local guide.
00:08:43.120 --> 00:08:52.960
I visited four Travises Bastos, some others, but Sidra Dija Dijos, the City of God, was a completely wild experience.
00:08:53.120 --> 00:09:00.799
So City of God is much further away, but if you want to see a side of Rio most tourists never experience, I thought it was worth the trip.
00:09:00.960 --> 00:09:07.600
Very little filming is allowed, but lots of culture, lots of drug dealers with guns, and lots of unique memories.
00:09:07.840 --> 00:09:10.159
Just don't wander into these communities alone.
00:09:10.320 --> 00:09:15.519
Use somebody who lives there, follow their rules, and know when the camera needs to disappear.
00:09:15.679 --> 00:09:17.440
Should you go to a football match?
00:09:17.679 --> 00:09:18.399
Absolutely.
00:09:18.559 --> 00:09:22.399
I've been to sporting events all over America, and I used to live in Wisconsin.
00:09:22.559 --> 00:09:25.120
But Brazilian football is different.
00:09:25.279 --> 00:09:29.200
Buy your tickets ahead of time, take the metro, and arrive early.
00:09:29.360 --> 00:09:34.559
We had assigned seats and couldn't even reach them because we arrived too close to kickoff.
00:09:34.639 --> 00:09:41.679
At Manaraca, nah, the crowd like stands, they sing, they chant the entire match.
00:09:41.840 --> 00:09:47.200
And when somebody scores, beer goes flying and strangers start hugging each other.
00:09:47.360 --> 00:09:49.840
If there's a match while you're in Rio, you gotta go.
00:09:50.000 --> 00:09:56.399
And for a bonus, here's the biggest mistake tourists make in Rio: spending way too much time in Copacabana.
00:09:56.639 --> 00:09:59.679
Rio is a massive, incredibly diverse city.
00:09:59.840 --> 00:10:09.759
Of course, see Copacabana, Christ the Redeemer, and Sugarloaf Mountain, but don't just check those three boxes and think you've experienced Rio or understand Brazil.
00:10:10.000 --> 00:10:15.919
Explore the neighborhoods, visit the markets, eat the food, experience football, meet the people.
00:10:16.080 --> 00:10:17.840
Copacabana is one beach.
00:10:18.080 --> 00:10:20.080
Rio is an entire city.
00:10:20.240 --> 00:10:21.279
Go experience it.
00:10:21.440 --> 00:10:25.279
And those are my 20 biggest tips for visiting Rio de Janeiro Brazil.
00:10:25.440 --> 00:10:27.919
I also have a full vlog for my time in Rio.
00:10:28.000 --> 00:10:32.080
So if you really want to see what all these experiences are like, make sure to check that out.
00:10:32.240 --> 00:10:35.360
If you've been to Rio, leave a comment with your best travel tip.
00:10:35.440 --> 00:10:38.559
And if this video helped you out, hit the like button and subscribe.
00:10:38.720 --> 00:10:41.600
Hopefully this makes planning your Rio trip a lot easier.
00:10:41.759 --> 00:10:47.440
Now, if this video has inspired you to travel, check out my Ask Alex travel planning sessions.
00:10:47.600 --> 00:10:49.039
The link is in the description.
00:10:49.200 --> 00:10:54.960
I'd love to help you plan an unforgettable adventure and save you hours of research.
00:10:55.279 --> 00:10:58.480
Thanks for watching, and as always, travel far.
00:10:58.879 --> 00:11:02.399
That's a wrap for today's episode of Alex Travels Far Podcast.
00:11:02.559 --> 00:11:04.000
Thanks for coming along on this journey.
00:11:04.080 --> 00:11:08.000
If you've enjoyed this, make sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode.
00:11:08.320 --> 00:11:09.600
Want more travel stories?
00:11:09.759 --> 00:11:15.759
You can find me on YouTube at Alex TravelsFar Vlogs, where I share even more adventures and in-depth travel guides.
00:11:16.000 --> 00:11:18.639
Want exclusive travel tips and behind-the-scenes updates?
00:11:18.879 --> 00:11:21.440
Sign up for the Alex Travels Far newsletter.
00:11:21.600 --> 00:11:27.120
You'll get exclusive vlog updates, exact Google Map locations, expert travel tips.
00:11:27.279 --> 00:11:31.519
It's free, no spam, just real travel insights straight to your inbox.
00:11:31.759 --> 00:11:34.399
Sign up now at alextravelsfar.com.
00:11:34.559 --> 00:11:39.360
Until next time, keep exploring, keep traveling, and as always, travel far.