Cruises from Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro is world renowned for its beaches, iconic monuments and carnivals. Being the second biggest metropolis of Brazil after São Paulo, this city is home to no less than 6 million inhabitants and receives thousand of tourists from around the world each year. Take the time to visit this wonderful city before starting your cruise along the Brazilian coast.

The main tourist spots in Rio de Janeiro

Located on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean, in the southwest of Brazil, the city of Rio de Janeiro is frequently used as a starting point for cruises in South America. Capital of the state of the same name, Rio is full of mysteries and unexpected riches that you can discover before embarking on the Costa Pacifica boat. Christ the Redeemer is one of the essential monuments of the city. Perched at the top of the Corcovado mountain, more than 700 meters high, this statue with outstretched arms watches over the city and its inhabitants. Considered the symbol of Rio and one of the new wonders of the world, each year this monument receives many visitors (tourists and natives), to admire its beauty and enjoy the marvelous view at the top of Mount Corcovado. From the top of this mountain, you can admire the infinite turquoise sea, the city and the Guanabara bay.

The Sugar Loaf, located at the entrance to Guanabara Bay, is also one of the most visited places in the city. This granite peak culminating at more than 390 meters offers you a panoramic view of the most beautiful beaches of Rio de Janeiro and its districts like Botafogo. You will reach its summit via cable car which leaves from the base of Morro da Babilônia before progressing to Morro da Urca. From there, you will take a second cable car to reach the summit of the Sugar Loaf.

Take a tour on the most beautiful districts of the city

Before starting your cruise, do not miss the Centro district, the historic center of the city. You will be able to see the Cathedral of San Sebastian, with its architecture inspired by the Mayan pyramids. When you visit the interior, you will be amazed by its spectacular stained glass windows. Then take advantage of your walk to go to Cinelândia Square, one of the most important political and cultural centers of Rio de Janeiro. And if you are an art lover, a tour of Passeio Publico is absolutely necessary. Considered the oldest public park in Brazil, it is full of sculptures, statues, fountains and paintings by famous artists.

Among the essential places of the city, the district of Santa Teresa is to visit absolutely. It particularly seduces by its bohemian side and its location on a hill offering a beautiful view of the impressive Guanabara Bay. Strolling through its cobbled streets lined with 19th century buildings, you can discover the atypical charm of the district through its small shops, cafes and craft stores. You can also reach the Gloria district from Santa Teresa via the famous Selarón stairs. These magnificent staircases have 215 steps covered with colored tiles of astonishing contrasts.

Unmissable beaches and natural sites

Rio de Janeiro is a veritable mosaic of landscapes that never ceases to amaze tourists. Whether you want to enjoy a pleasant swim in the sea or get lost in lush vegetation, you will discover a wide variety of majestic places worthy of a postcard. Rio is famous for Copacabana Beach, jealously guarded by two historic forts at its ends. This white sand beach stretches for more than 4 kilometers. Crossing the Arpoador district, you will reach the equally legendary Ipanema beach. Made famous by the famous song “Garota de Ipanema” by Antonio Carlos Jobim, this beach delights in its dynamism. If you want to relax in the middle of nature, you should definitely visit the Rio Botanical Garden. This 140 hectare garden constitutes a veritable oasis by bringing together nearly 40,000 plants from 6000 different species.You can relax in this haven of peace, surrounded by the sweet scent of orchids and the song of exotic birds. Tijuana forest is also one of the city’s must-see natural sites. Declared a World Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO, this 3,200 hectare tropical forest located in the heart of the city is home to diverse flora and fauna. This green cathedral also has impressive waterfalls, including Cascatinha Taunay.