Rio de Janeiro

Cidade Maravilhosa

On the southern coast of the state of Rio de Janeiro is the city of Rio de Janeiro, land of the tiny bikini and even tinier speedo and one of most scenic and well loved cities world wide.

Locals are known as "Cariocas" and pronounce Rio as "Heeo Je Han-ear-ho", wear Havaianas (flip flops/thongs) all the time, let the days slip by on the beaches and party the nights away.

Highlights
 • Christ the Redeemer
 • Sugar Loaf mountain
 • The beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema
 • The Mardi Grais Carnival in February
 • Maracana Stadium - the largest soccer/football stadium in the world
 • Lapa's amazing night-life
 • New Year's Eve at Copacabana beach
 • The favela tour

Best time of year to visit
Any - though most popular and crowded is December to February - when prices double.