Rocinha Favela

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Jeremiah and I took a Jeep tour through the largest favela in Rio. These shanti towns are completely self-sustaining aside from government trash and sewage services. The drug lords live at the top and control the entire community. They are seen more as businessmen than criminals and have far more respect from the people than the local police. The tour is completely safe and sanctioned by the drug lords so that tourists can see the truth about this way of life. They want outsiders to know that their conditions are very bad, but that the people are vibrant and retain dignity despite being ignored and shoved under the rug by the government. These towns are erected by the people in any space available and the electricity is cyphoned from surrounding businesses and communities. This favela houses 150,000 people practically on top of each other.

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Comments

[Vanessa]

I'm so jealous!
Your pictures are great and the country looks beautiful. Be sure to keep posting photos. Maybe you boys could smile in the next round?

[Sarah]

holy moly
You're having the time of your life. Myself (and my co-workers) are quite envious of you and your travels to these gorgeous countries. Machu Picchu (I hear Cusco is AMAZING) is on the top of my list of life time goals. I hope you enjoy that hike and take many, many photos of the ruins so I can live vicariously for a moment or two. Happy travelin, Sarah