Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Brazil December – March (peak), or May – October (drier, quieter) $$

Rio de Janeiro

Beaches, samba and mountains in the same view

Rio has the most dramatic city setting on earth. Stay near the beach, take the Sugarloaf cable car at sunset, and don't flash valuables in public.

Where to stay

Ipanema or Leblon for the best beaches and safest streets. Copacabana for old-school charm. Skip Centro and Santa Teresa at night without a taxi.

How to get there

Direct from London Heathrow on BA in 11.5h to GIG. From Galeão airport, take an official taxi or Uber — about £20 to Ipanema.

Don't miss

Sunset on Arpoador rock. The Trem do Corcovado up to Christ the Redeemer first thing. A samba night at Pedra do Sal on a Monday.

Highlights

  • Sugarloaf cable car
  • Ipanema sunset
  • Tijuca forest hike
  • Lapa nightlife

What to pack for Rio de Janeiro

Tried-and-tested kit. Links go to Amazon UK.

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