The Time for Rio (and Brazil) is Now!
by Geoffrey Ravoire, Vice President at Huffman Travel
With visa restrictions lifted until April 2025 and the city preparing to host the G20 (November 18 and 19, 2024), the time for Rio (and Brazil) is now! Who's Rio de Janeiro for? The young at heart, the seekers of extraordinary design and beach vibes. Did you know that Brazil is larger than the contiguous US? From the Amazon forest to sand dunes, tropical islets to wetlands, Brazil boasts an incomparable richness. Easily accessible via Houston, Dallas, and Miami, here's how to spend a long weekend in Rio, or add it to your next South American adventure.
First, let's pick a hotel—Copacabana Palace, a Belmond Hotel, or Fasano. If you're looking for the grande dame, then the Copa is for you: elegant service, a large oasis pool, excellent dining, and sophisticated rooms. Should you prefer an upscale boutique feel, Fasano offers warm hospitality, trendy décor, and fabulous views of Ipanema from your balcony.
Day 1
Upon arrival in Rio, I love to take the cable car up to Sugar Loaf for a first panoramic view of the city and beyond. The nearby marina is a popular launching spot for cruises on the bay; a warm Carioca welcome, and a good dose of fresh air after a long flight. You may choose a sunset cruise or prefer to be back on solid ground and join locals as they gather on the rocks of Arpoador. In this daily ritual, you may find yourself joining the ensemble, clapping at sunset!
Day 2
Wake up to gorgeous beach views, and maybe enjoy a run on the famous black and white boardwalk before breakfast. Next, head out to explore plants from all over the world. Founded in 1808, Rio de Janeiro's Botanical Garden is one of the world's great tropical botanical gardens and arboretums. Return to the beaches for a casual lunch at Arpoador Bar or one of the baracas that dot the promenades. This afternoon, continue enjoying the city like Cariocas do – beach, walks, people watching, and shopping. The best shopping is at Shopping Leblon and around Nossa Senohara. Check out local brands like Osklen, Reserva, Veja, Farm, and many more, most of which are created with sustainability in mind. Tonight, board a private helicopter and soar high above the city. A thrilling experience if you're comfortable with this mode of transportation. For dinner, Uber to the heart of Leblon and discover the most vibrant part of the city.
Day 3
We suggest an early morning towards the end of your trip to visit Corcovado Mountain (the Art Deco statue of Christ the Redeemer) before the crowds. The highest point in the city, it boasts some of the best views of Rio. Should an early wake up not be your thing, venture to Santa Teresa to enjoy the colorful streets, art galleries, and colonial architecture. When in the area, lunch at Aprizavel is a must. Alternatively, back to the beach, it is, for lunch at Belmonte or Pato com Laranja Praia. Ipanema is where it's at. This afternoon, more shopping, more beach walks, or, if you're feeling intrepid, attempt the hike to the top of Two Brothers mountains. Hike behind a favela and up the iconic mountain behind Ipanema Beach to get stunning views over Rio. Not for the faint of heart, but so rewarding when you summit at sunset (or sunrise!). Back in town, enjoy a local cocktail at your hotel or hang out with locals at Bar Jobi. What will your final Rio dinner be? Michelin-star? Meats? Asian fusion?
Time to head back already or to continue your adventure in South America. A last breakfast along the beach, pack, and you're at the airport 35 minutes later. Till next time, Rio!
Best Museums to Visit
Museum of Tomorrow is one of the city center's major stars. It features technological attractions inviting visitors to reflect on the future based on human actions' environmental impact.
Museum of Modern Art (MAM) is one of Brazil's most important cultural institutes. It illuminates the great modern and contemporary artists of recent times.
Museum of Art of Rio (MAR) provides a transversal reading of the city's history, social fabric, symbolic life, conflicts, contradictions, challenges, and social expectations.
CCBB Rio is a cultural center with exhibition rooms, three theaters, a library, a cinema, and a video room. It is housed in an art deco-style building in what used to be Rio's financial district.
Royal Portuguese Reading Room is a historic cultural institution. Founded in 1837, it has an impressive collection of Portuguese literary works.
Weather and Nearby Destinations
Brazil is a warm, year-round destination, with most of the country located in the tropics. Based on which destinations and experiences you’re interested in, ask your Huffman Travel Advisor which season is best.
Rio pairs well with:
Punta del Este is known as the St. Tropez of Uruguay, with beautiful beaches, upscale resorts, and a vibrant nightlife.
Salvador de Bahia boasts picturesque views of the Atlantic Ocean, historic architecture, and vibrant street life.
The Iguazu Falls are formed by 275 falls, 80% of which are located in Argentina. The Brazilian side offers beautiful panoramic views of the falls, and it is certainly worth a visit.
More Brazil inspiration from Huffman Travel Client Experience Manager Samantha Lanna.
On Safety…
Rio de Janeiro has always been famous for petty crime and dangerous favelas (shantytowns in or near a city). Although both exist, you can enjoy your visit in Rio without fear if you follow simple tips:
Keep jewelry and watches at the hotel, unless driving to a restaurant and back
Be mindful of your surroundings like in any other city
Prefer touristic areas where the police presence is high
Avoid leaving your phone exposed for too long and within easy reach of anyone