Rio de Janeiro, Brazil is one of the most visited cities in the Southern Hemisphere. The “marvelous city” (cidade maravilhosa) is home to beautiful beaches such as Copacabana, Ipanema, and Leblon, the Christ The Redeemer statue atop Corcovado Mountain, and Sugarloaf Mountain. Other travelers find themselves in Rio for major events including the 2014 World Cup, 2016 Olympics (both at the Maracanã Stadium), and the annual Carnaval celebration.
The spectacular geography and warm climate make Rio one of the world’s unique running cities. Running highlights include various beach runs, a lagoon loop run with views of the Christ The Redeemer statue, and a route through the quaint neighborhood of Urca and a run up the cobblestone hills of Santa Teresa.
We have also provided a guide to the major Olympics venues. A spectacular new 2.5 mile elevated bike path, the Tim Maia Ciclovia, has been built connecting alongside the coastal expressway between two of the main Olympic centers: the south zone in Lebron, which will stage the rowing and triathlon, and the main Olympic Park in Barra de Tijuca. Unfortunately, a huge wave tore down a section of the path in April 2016. Hopes are it will be repaired in time for the Olympics.
Note: Crime is unfortunately a major issue in Rio. We recommend seeking advice and talking to your hotel in order to learn the right precautions and areas to avoid. Leave the valuables at your hotels and take a partner with you.
In Rio de Janeiro, buses are the main form of public transportation. Nearly 440 municipal bus lines run frequently and serve over four million passengers every day. The system is relatively safe by day but less so at night. Additionally, there are two Metro lines in Rio. The two lines serve the city seven days a week. The first line runs from General Osório in Ipanema to Uruguai Station in Tijuca. The second line runs from Botafogo, sharing ten stations with the first line, terminating at Pavuna in northern Rio. The Metro runs services from 05:00 am to 12:00 midnight, Monday to Saturday, and from 07:00 am to 11:00 pm Sundays and public holidays.
Map of Public Transport
