Tour of Rocinha Favela in Rio de Janeiro
Overview
Join me for a locally guided walking tour through Rocinha, the largest favela in South America. This experience takes you through everyday streets, alleys, and viewpoints while exploring the community’s history, social dynamics, and daily life from the perspective of someone who grew up here.
I’m Luiz, a local guide born and raised in Rocinha, with over 12 years of experience guiding visitors through my community. Unlike general tour agencies, this tour is led by someone who lives the reality being explained. The focus is on clarity, context, and honest conversation, without dramatization or stereotypes.
The route is carefully planned and follows established local access points, allowing visitors to move safely and respectfully through the favela while learning how the community actually functions beyond media narratives. This is not a performance or a scripted show, but a grounded walk through a living urban space, guided by practical knowledge and lived experience.
If you’re looking for a direct, respectful, and no-nonsense introduction to Rocinha, this tour offers exactly that.
This activity includes:
- Rocinha
- Mirante Rocinha
- ROCINHA RUA 1
- Novo Visual Restaurante - Rocinha
Meeting point
Estr. da Gávea, 250 - Gávea, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 22451-262, Brazil
On arrival
The meeting point is Centro Municipal de Saúde Dr. Albert Sabin, a blue public health building located at the top of Rocinha, on Estrada da Gávea. I will be waiting outside the entrance, wearing a red mask, so I’m easy to recognize.
We meet at 10:00 AM and the tour begins at 10:15 AM.
Due to local access rules, it is not possible to join the tour once it has started, so please plan to arrive on time and wait at the meeting point even if you arrive early.
Uber, taxi, or the 99 app are the easiest ways to get there.
If arriving by subway, get off at São Conrado – Acesso A, then take a short moto taxi ride to the meeting point (10 reais per person, cash only).
Things to note
• This is a small-group, walking tour guided by a local resident.
• The tour lasts approximately 1.5 to 2 hours and follows a downhill route.
• Wear comfortable shoes and bring water, especially on warm days.
• Phones and cameras are welcome throughout the tour.
• Shops along the route accept cash, and many also accept card.
• Please follow the guide’s instructions at all times to ensure a smooth and respectful experience.
Free Cancellation
Free Cancellation up to 24 hours before the activity starts. Late cancellation or your non-arrival is not refundable.
