Rio de Janeiro state’s awe-inspiring scenery spreads out in all directions from the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue. Discover hills draped in lush rainforest and a coastline dotted with lively cities and old fishing towns. Sweeps of pristine sand stretch for miles and tropical islands sit in piercing-blue waters. This, accompanied by the rhythmic sounds of bossa nova and samba, make Rio de Janeiro state one of the highlights of a vacation in Brazil.
Rio de Janeiro, the Cidade Maravilhosa (Marvelous City) or simply Rio, is the perfect introduction. The beach suburbs of Copacabana, Ipanema and Leblon are famous for their style, swagger and watersports. Enjoy the action while sipping on caipirinhas and cold beers at beachside bars called botecos. Get a bird’s-eye view of the city from Sugarloaf Mountain and the huge statue of Christ, which dominates Mount Corcovado.
Head to Centro to visit museums and ride a historic streetcar to the bohemian district of Santa Teresa. Get your groove on at the outdoor samba parties in Lapa. The pace slows down at the beaches of Niteroí and traffic-free Ilha de Paquetá island. Hike to waterfalls and spot birdlife in Parque Nacional da Tijuca urban rainforest.
Buses depart constantly for the state’s meandering coastline. Cabo Frío, on the Costa do Sol, excites with snorkeling, surfing and superb seafood. Hop between almost 20 beaches on the Búzios peninsula. To the west, the Costa Verde dazzles with its fjord-like landscapes. Take a boat from Conceição de Jacareí to explore the snorkeling spots and jungle hikes of Ilha Grande.
See a slice of Brazilian colonial history in Paraty. The hill towns of Petrópolis and Teresópolis offer a break from the coast. Between these towns, Parque Nacional da Serra dos Órgãos has excellent treks in a dramatic mountain range.
Reach the state of Rio de Janeiro by flying to Rio from major worldwide cities. The infectious Brazilian charm hits you the moment you step out of the plane. Experience Brazil’s love for parties by joining in the Rio Carnival and Réveillon (New Year’s Eve) celebrations.