| Located on Brazil's Atlantic southern coast, Rio de | | | | adventurous traveler, this is an experience not to be |
| Janeiro is a vibrant place that remains an abiding | | | | missed. |
| favorite amongst travelers and backpackers. From the | | | | 4. A helicopter tour. Ok, so it might be a bit on the |
| famous Rio Carnival to the spectacular beaches and | | | | expensive side, but, with its spectacular landscapes |
| the breathtaking landscapes, Rio is a time-honored | | | | and bustling urbanity, a bird's eye view of the city Rio is |
| destination for backpackers looking to let their hair | | | | a memorable sight. |
| down and have a bit of fun. | | | | Stay safe in Rio: |
| Things to Do in Rio | | | | While Rio as dangerous as some make out, the |
| The incoming visitor is simply spoiled for choice when it | | | | backpacker nonetheless needs to keep their wits |
| comes to things to do in Rio. There are some things, | | | | about them in order to ensure they do not fall prey to |
| however, that you definitely should not miss out when | | | | criminals who consider tourists to be soft targets for |
| planning your trip here. These include: | | | | mugging or robbing. |
| 1. Days spent lazing around on the city's sun kissed | | | | The most important tip here is probably to avoid |
| beaches. The Copacabana and the Urca, for example, | | | | downtown Rio after dark, especially if you are alone or |
| are famous beaches that have become an attraction | | | | accompanied by just one or two friends. As ever |
| in their own right for backpackers locals alike. Spending | | | | when traveling, carrying as little cash as possible and |
| time here is simply a must while staying in Rio. | | | | not wearing expensive jewelry are advisable while |
| 2. The Rio Carnival. If you happen to be in town during | | | | exploring Rio. |
| the week of the Rio Carnival, you're in for a treat. One | | | | While traveling around Rio, sticking to the subway |
| of the most famous carnivals of the world, Rio's | | | | when possible is a good maxim, as it proves |
| become awash with a riot of colors during the festival, | | | | significantly safer than the buses, where pickpockets |
| and you will find people dancing, singing and drinking into | | | | tend to ply their dubious trade. |
| the wee hours of the morning. Simply not to be | | | | Where to stay in Rio? |
| missed. | | | | Thankfully, there are many good hostels in Rio de |
| 3. Paragliding. With high hills and great winds throughout | | | | Janeiro that the backpacker can choose from, and |
| the year, Rio has emerged as one of the ideal places | | | | they all provide a safe haven should you feel the |
| for paragliding and hang gliding. If you are an | | | | outside get a little too 'edgy' for your liking. |