tour favela santa marta

5 Best Favela Tours in Rio: A Complete Guide to Visiting a Favela

LOOKING FOR THE BEST RIO FAVELA TOUR?

You are in the right place, as we will be talking all about favela tours in Rio de Janeiro. Back in 2016, I lived in the Vidigal favela for about six months. I also volunteered for a company called Favela Experience, which granted me the ability to visit several favelas in the Zona Sul.

The reality is that Rio de Janeiro favelas are an inescapable part of the Rio landscape and are synonymous with the city itself. Rio is home to around 600 different favelas, most of which are not safe to visit. However, there are a couple that do offer tours. So how do you choose the right favela tour?

Following the pacification of the favelas that began in 2008, tourism grew in popularity, and there are many companies that offer tours to visit them. But how do you choose the right one?

Top 5 Favela Tours in Rio

Above all else, if you are interested in visiting a favela, I’d recommend sticking to Vidigal, Rocinha, and Santa Marta; those are the ones that have tours run by locals. Here are a couple of my favorite favela tours in Rio that are ethical, responsible, and run by locals that live in the favela itself.

⚠️ Note: Please avoid calling favelas Rio de Janeiro slums or Rio slums. Instead, opt for the word communities or urban spaces.

1. Rio De Janeiro: Half-Day Rocinha Favela Walking Tour

⭐️ Rating: 4.7 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Tour time: 4 hours |  📍 Check rates & availability

Venture into the heart of Rio’s largest favela, Rocinha, on a half-day walking tour that challenges stereotypes and provides an authentic perspective on local life.

Organized by local, English-speaking guides and favela hosts , this walking tour is designed to be respectful and non-intrusive to the residents.

This experience was amazing, the guide really knew where to go and what to see. This is a must-do cultural experience for anyone visiting Rio! — SIMON (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

Unlike other tours that merely drive around in jeeps, this walking tour allows you to stroll the streets in small groups, interact with the locals, and hear their stories firsthand. You’ll learn about the favela’s history, its social and economic challenges, and the vibrant community that calls it home.

The cost of the tour also includes a contribution to the favela community, adding an element of responsible tourism to your visit.

2. Rio de Janeiro: Favela Santa Marta Tour with a Local Guide

⭐️ Rating: 4.9 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Tour time: 2.5 hours |  📍 C heck rates & availability

Experience a slice of authentic Rio de Janeiro with a guided tour of Favela Santa Marta . Led by a local resident, Thiago Firmo , who was born and raised in Favela Santa Marta, this tour offers an authentic exploration of the favela’s vibrant culture and daily life.

From the panoramic views of iconic landmarks such as Christ the Redeemer and Sugar Loaf Mountain, reached by the Santa Marta cable car, to the bustling streets that have hosted famed guests like Queen Elizabeth II and Michael Jackson, you’ll experience the favela from a truly unique perspective.

This was an incredible tour – I’m recommending it to any and all of my friends who come to Rio. — CHRISTINE (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

The tour also offers a chance to visit local artisan shops, revealing the favela’s creative spirit. You’ll walk away with a richer understanding of Rio’s favelas, making this an unforgettable experience for any traveler seeking a deeper connection with the city’s diverse communities.

3. Rio de Janeiro: Vidigal Favela Tour & Two Brothers Hike

⭐️ Rating: 4.6 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Tour time: 5 hours |  📍 C heck rates & availability

Embrace an off-the-beaten-path adventure in Rio de Janeiro by exploring the captivating Vidigal favela . This community, which emerged around 1940, offers a unique blend of history, culture, and stunning Atlantic Ocean views.

Your journey begins in Vidigal, where you’ll immerse yourself in the community, using local transport and engaging with residents.

The walk through the favelas of Vidigal was an impressive experience and Eduardo took us to a nice bar with an amazing view. — REVIEWER (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

Follow your guide in a group through the forest and head to the first viewpoint. Continue to the next viewpoint for a breathtaking view of Pedra da Gávea and Pedra Bonita . See Corcovado in the other direction before going to the summit of Two Brothers Hill (Morro Dois Irmaos) .

The summit reveals a panoramic vista of Rio’s famous beaches, including Leblon, Ipanema, and Copacabana. This 4.5-hour hike is a true adventure, while also providing travelers a deeper understanding of Rio’s social divisions.

4. Favela Tour Rocinha and Vila Canoas in Rio de Janeiro

⭐️ Rating: 4.5 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Tour time: 3 hours |  📍 C heck rates & availability

Experience an intimate look at local life in Rio de Janeiro through a guided tour of Rocinha and Vila Canoas, two of the largest favelas in the city.

You’ll begin in Rocinha, where you’ll learn about the favela’s unique architecture , public services, and cultural aspects, stopping at the Rocinha handcraft center and a local terrace for breathtaking views.

A highlight of the tour is the visit to community schools like Moranguinhos or Saci Sabe Tudo . Funded by Favela Tour, these schools offer local kids classes in computer skills, English, music, capoeira, and ballet.

With the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off included, this tour offers a rare and valuable insight into a side of Rio few visitors get to see.

5. Favela Tour in Rio with Transfer service

Uncover the complexities of life in Rocinha Favela, Latin America’s largest favela, during this 3-hour educational tour.

Guided by a local, you’ll navigate the vibrant community, engage with its residents, and delve into the rich history of Rocinha’s establishment. This tour is more than sightseeing – it’s an opportunity to gain a profound understanding of the economic and political factors shaping Rio’s society.

It was not like what you see in the movies you really got a feel for how the other half of Brazilian life goes on. — TY (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

With round-trip transportation from Rio hotels included, this Rocinha favela tour is a convenient and insightful exploration of a side of Rio often unseen by visitors.

The History of Rio Favelas

But before you book your favela tour in Rio de Janeiro , it’s best if you know a couple of key things, like the history behind Rio favelas.

Favelas first appeared in the 19th century, built by displaced soldiers from Bahia who named them after a plant native to that region which irritates the skin and grows freely in the Bahian shantytowns. Favelas were later occupied by fugitive and then freed slaves, earning them the early nickname bairros africanos or African neighborhoods.

These communities were historically low-income and nowadays suffer from the stigma of being associated with the drug trade and violence. However, roughly 23% of Rio’s inhabitants, around 1.5 million people, live in favelas.

But they are also known as hives of creativity. Samba was invented in a favela, and so was pagode. Favelas are also home to culture and art, such as the  moon sculpture  in Providência,  the Maze  cultural space in Tavares Bastos, and  the murals  that line the walls of Cantagalo.

Are Favela s safe?

But what about favela safety? Are favela tours safe? The answer to that question depends on the audience. For many people living in these communities, violence is a real and present danger, whether it be from warring drug gangs or the military police.

For tourists, the answer is quite different . When tourists talk about favelas, they mean Santa Marta, Vidigal, and a few others in the south zone of the city. These only make up around 2% of the total of Rio’s favelas.

These communities, such as Santa Marta and Vidigal, are Rio’s so-called safe favelas. Both have undergone drastic processes of urbanization and even gentrification, with poorer residents no longer able to afford to live there.

Santa Marta Favela

Santa Marta, in the neighborhood of Botafogo, became famous when Michael Jackson filmed his music video for  “They Don’t Care About Us”  there in 1996.

Since then, it has been visited by a number of celebrities, including Madonna, Beyoncé, and Alicia Keys, as well as being used as a film set for the fifth installment of the Fast and Furious film franchise.

Vidigal Favela

Vidigal, on the slopes of Morro Dois Irmãos and in between the swanky neighborhoods of Leblon and São Conrado, has also undergone significant urbanization and gentrification since the 2000s, with its superb views of the city and privileged location driving up the price of real estate. There is no longer any significant drug dispute there, and one of the biggest industries in these areas is, in fact, favela tourism.

Rocinha Favela

Rocinha Favela, Latin America’s largest favela , is a vibrant community nestled between the districts of  São Conrado  and  Gávea . Home to around 200,0000 thousand residents, Rocinha’s narrow alleyways and multi-tiered buildings paint a vivid picture of life in Rio’s urban fringe.

Despite its socioeconomic challenges, Rocinha boasts a resilient community spirit and a thriving cultural scene. Its streets are alive with music, food stalls, and local businesses, reflecting the industriousness of its inhabitants. Rocinha is a testament to the stark economic disparities in Rio, yet it’s also a symbol of resilience, community strength, and the vibrant culture of Brazil’s urban spaces.

Why do some people disagree with Favela tours in Rio?

Some people believe that favela tours in Rio, or poor neighborhoods, can harm the communities. They worry about poverty tourism , saying it treats people like exhibits and can take advantage of them. They argue that some tours just let visitors gawk at the residents instead of promoting a true cultural exchange, which can upset the people who live there.

Critics also say that favela tourism can shock visitors and make them see the communities in a bad light. This criticism is especially aimed at companies not based in the favelas, as they might not care about showing the good sides of these communities or explaining the unique challenges and benefits of living there. As a result, these favela tours in Rio might spread negative ideas about favelas worldwide.

How to Choose The Best Tour Operator

Local people and tour operators have capitalized on people’s fascination with Rio de Janeiro’s favelas, and in Santa Marta, Rocinha and Vidigal they run a huge number of tours around the community, claiming they offer the reality of the slums and an enriching cultural experience.

Unfortunately, many of these tours can seem like sightseeing trips for people to see how less fortunate folks live. But if you do want to go on one of the favela tours in Rio mentioned above, there are specific things that you should take into consideration when choosing a tour.

1. Choose a Local Operator

A company that is based within the favela itself and only employs local residents offers one of the most sustainable ways of doing a tour. Guides from outside the area are not able to speak authentically for the inhabitants about life within the favelas.

Local guides are also able to delicately advise tourists on etiquette to ensure their visit isn’t too disruptive. This includes preventing photography which might include people who would not appreciate it.

This in-depth knowledge, tact and respect is what sets apart the best companies and is one of the most important aspects in minimizing the degree to which a tour becomes an annoyance for the locals.

2. Community Impact: Who benefits from Favela tours in Rio?

Favela tourism can be beneficial for the communities it touches. Many of the tour companies were founded within the favela itself and only employ guides that live there. Whilst this increases the safety and authenticity of the tours, it also ensures that the money is used to boost the local economy.

Increased exposure to the daily lives of the thousands of people that call favelas their home helps to dispel the myth propagated by the media that they are constant warzones to be avoided at all costs.

3. provide Educational Value

Beyond just sightseeing, a tour should provide a deep understanding of the favela’s history, culture, and the socio-economic dynamics that shape the community. It should cover the establishment of the favelas, their evolution over time, and the challenges they face today.

The tour should also highlight the resilience, creativity, and community spirit that thrive amidst these challenges. By fostering understanding and empathy, the tour can help dispel stereotypes and misconceptions about favela life.

4. Safety Concerns

Make sure to only book a tour led by experienced guides who are familiar with the area. They know the local customs and rules and can navigate the intricate layout of the favela, ensuring the tour avoids any potential areas of concern.

A reputable tour operator will prioritize guests’ safety, provide clear instructions, and address any concerns before the tour. It’s also advisable to read previous guests’ reviews to ensure the operator has a strong track record of safety.

Remember, safety also involves respecting the community’s norms and privacy to ensure a positive and respectful interaction between visitors and residents.

5. Smaller Group Size

The size of the tour group can significantly impact the quality of your experience during a favela tour. Smaller groups tend to offer a more intimate and personalized experience. With fewer people, you have more opportunities to interact with your guide, ask questions, and gain deeper insights.

It’s also less intrusive to the local community , reducing the feeling of being a spectacle. Additionally, smaller groups are more manageable, allowing guides to ensure everyone’s safety and comfort.

Warning: Avoid jeep Tours

On the other end of the scale, it is wise to avoid the controversial favela jeep tour companies, which ferry visitors through the favelas in safari jeeps. Not only are they almost exclusively based outside the favelas, but they also align the visit with adventure tourism.

Aside from being sensationalist, this has the potential effect of making residents feel like they’re in a zoo. These tours are satirized by the Rio-based comedy group Porta Dos Fundos  in this video  entitled ‘Poor’.

Favela Tours in Rio: Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to visit favelas in Rio?

Yes — it’s generally safe to visit favelas in Rio, especially with a guided tour. These tours are typically led by experienced local guides who understand the community and its dynamics.

However, like any urban area, favelas can have safety concerns, so it’s recommended to always be respectful, stay aware of your surroundings, and follow the guidance of your tour leader. It’s also advisable to choose a reputable tour operator with positive reviews regarding safety.

Which favela is best to visit in Rio de Janeiro?

Rocinha, being the largest favela in Brazil , is often recommended due to its vibrant culture and stunning views.

Vidigal is also popular, thanks to its friendly atmosphere and the breathtaking hike to the top of the Two Brothers Mountain.

For a cultural immersion, Santa Marta offers colorful buildings and street art, making it a favorite among visitors. Always choose a reputable tour for the best experience.

So the best favela to visit is a toss-up between Rocinha, Vidigal, and Santa Marta — depending on what you are looking fro.

Do people take guided tours of favelas in Brazil?

Yes — many people opt for guided tours when visiting favelas in Brazil. These tours are led by experienced guides, often locals who have a deep understanding of the community’s history and culture.

Guided tours not only provide important context and insights but also ensure visitors navigate these areas safely and respectfully.

They can also often contribute to the local economy, supporting community projects and businesses. Always opt for a tour that prioritizes ethical practices and community respect.

Is it safe to visit Rocinha favela?

Visiting Rocinha is generally considered safe when done responsibly, particularly through a guided tour.

These favela tours in Rio are conducted by experienced guides who are well-versed in the community’s dynamics. However, as with any urban area, it’s important to stay alert, follow the guide’s instructions, and respect local customs.

What favelas to avoid in Rio?

There are around 600 favelas in Rio de Janeiro. However, many of them, particularly those located outside of the Zona Sul (South Zone), are less frequented by tourists and may not be as prepared for visitors.

For safety and to respect the local communities, it’s not generally recommended to visit these favelas, specifically ones located in the North Zone of Rio de Janeiro. The Rio most dangerous favela are usually the ones in the North Zone.

Which favelas are the safest to visit?

When considering safety, the favelas in Rio de Janeiro most commonly visited by tourists are Rocinha, Vidigal, and Santa Marta .

These communities are more accustomed to visitors and often offer guided tours led by local residents or individuals with deep knowledge of the area.

These favela tours in Rio are designed to respect the community’s privacy and dignity while also providing a safe and enriching experience for tourists. However, safety can vary, so it’s always advisable to do research, read reviews, and choose a reputable tour operator.

Final Thoughts: Favela Tours in Rio

Favela tours in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil are not for everyone, but they offer vital insight into the city’s diverse culture and social fabric. When done with consent, respect, and a knowledgeable tour guide, these tours provide a deeper understanding of the living conditions in favelas.

Approached with an open mind, these tours can shed light on the realities beyond media portrayals, revealing the resilience and vibrancy within these communities. Becoming a key part of any Rio de Janeiro city tour, they offer unique perspectives often overlooked.

However, the choice to partake in a favela tour in Rio should be considered carefully, ensuring it’s done ethically and responsibly. In essence, if approached with the right attitude, favela tours in Rio can significantly deepen your understanding of this multifaceted city.

Yvonne Ivanescu, founder of Now in Rio, is a writer and editor with a decade of experience. Passionate about storytelling, she shares the magic of Rio with the world.

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A walk through the Santa Marta Favela, Rio de Janeiro

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We were slightly apprehensive at the prospect of a trip to the favelas in Rio. We wanted to check out another side of the city but in our minds the favelas were a no go zone for tourists, our perception fuelled by news reports detailing drug wars, gun fights and unpoliced towns.

We were intrigued and, after a bit of deliberation, decided that we would be fine. Our reasoning being they probably wouldn’t offer tours if this was not the case! Blind faith is probably a better description but at that point the tour was booked and we were off to visit the favela Santa Marta in Rio’s South Zone.

Santa Marta Favela

As our car approached the top of the mountain where Santa Marta is located we passed through a police checkpoint to enter the favela. It was amazing to consider that 10 years ago it would have been unthinkable to visit Santa Marta yet here we were ready to take a walk through the community.

Santa Marta was the first favela to undergo a pacification program where control of the favela is passed to the police who then set up a permanent presence in the favela in an effort to remove drug gangs and reduce crime while implementing social change projects.

Having been blessed with endless blue skies and sunny days since we arrived in Rio, our favela tour took place on a drizzly and foggy morning and visibility was limited early on. Somehow it seemed fitting to witness normal Rio life with a bit of realistic Irish weather!

The favela was a maze of stacked houses and narrow alleys tumbling down the steep Rio hillside.

As the weather cleared we were able to see the sprawling favela in its entirety. There’s a huge contrast between the towering skyscrapers further down the hill and the stacked wooden and brick houses of the favela. The massively unequal distribution of wealth is startling to witness.

As we made our way down through the favela I was blown away by what we saw. Santa Marta is colourful and vibrant and the sense of community is incredible. Kids played happily on the street, the soccer skills were phenomenal and upbeat music was being played around every corner. Everyone knew each other and seemed mostly welcoming of our small tour through their favela.

We passed by crèches, supermarkets, bakeries and bars inside the favela. There’s even a samba school and a few football pitches.

The local supermarket:

 Too early for drinks, the bar was shut!

Favela street art:

Santa Marta is held up as the model favela and it was interesting to see modern housing elements such as satellite dishes, sewage tanks and electricity wires. As a result of the pacification a new road and tram line were installed to make the trip to the top easier for residents.

That’s not to say that Santa Marta is not without its infrastructure problems. There are many parts where the terrain is uneven and muddy and it must be difficult for the older residents to navigate. Some of the alleys are crammed full of rubbish and sewage and the tram is frequently out of action. But the improvements are there to see and the inside of the houses are much more modern and comfortable than the exteriors suggest.

 Michael Jackson

I definitely wasn’t expecting to find a Michael Jackson tribute in the corner of a favela in Rio but there it was!

It turns out that Michael Jackson filmed part of the video to ‘They Don’t Care about us’ in the Santa Marta favela in 1996. Initially the government didn’t want the music video to be filmed in the favela as it was not an image of Rio they wanted to present to the world. They relented and it’s still a huge part of the favela’s culture today.

A bronze statue of Michael Jackson, arms outstretched, commands prime position overlooking the Santa Marta favela and the city of Rio below.

Behind the bronze statue a giant Michael Jackson mosaic adorns the wall:

A little gift shop in the courtyard plays the video on loop for the tourists and sells some memorabilia and local arts and crafts.

Getting into the spirit of things!

The Santa Marta favela is located high above Rio and the views over the city are spectacular. Ipanema and Leblon are visible in the distance and the infamous Christ the Redeemer Statue stands arms outstretched keeping a watchful eye over the favela atop the Corcovado Mountain.

The Favela Painting Project

As we reached the bottom of the favela we were met with a sea of houses painted in a stunning rainbow of colours. As part of a project to boost community pride, 34 houses were painted in bright greens, yellows and pinks. Two Dutch artists were the driving force behind the project and local youths were employed to complete the project. It’s such a simple yet effective way to boost the image of the favelas and a really positive and cheerful end to the tour.

We felt very safe at all times and the police presence was noticeable with checkpoints when we entered and left the favela. The residents were friendly and seemed to welcome our tour through their town. Tourists were easily identified with a tell-tale camera but everyone seemed relaxed and comfortable. We were respectful of people’s property and the fact we were in their community and were careful not to take any pictures of the locals or the children to avoid causing any offence.

There is a definite edge of tension in some parts of the favela and new faces were looked upon with a little distrust. I’m not sure I would be comfortable wandering through these parts of Santa Marta without the accompaniment of a guide. The favela is a steep maze of narrow alleyways down the hill and I’d imagine it is pretty easy to take a wrong turn and end up very lost.

Navigating through the favela:

Poverty Tourism

One issue we struggled with was the concept of poverty tourism, where wealthy tourists pay to take tours in poor areas, basically a form of voyeurism. I’m not sure this concept is even relevant any longer in a community like Santa Mara. Far from being a crime ridden and miserable favela it’s amazing to witness the spirit and vibrancy of the community and there are many who live there by choice rather than move somewhere considered more prosperous. We viewed the tour as an opportunity to understand another part of Rio and experience the culture of the city.

One thing we do feel strongly about is the importance to seek out a tour run by local residents rather than large corporations in the belief that this benefits the local community directly. The Brazilian government launched Rio Top Tour, a scheme to teach locals English and encourage them to become guides and some of the Santa Marta tours are run by trained guides from this scheme. As well as being a part of the local community the local tour guides are unlikely to gloss over the realities of life in the favela.

Visiting the favela was an incredible experience. The favelas are such an integral part of Rio de Janeiro and it was amazing to experience the rich culture and strong sense of community. Everything is so vibrant: the colours, the music and the children playing. The Santa Marta favela is not a place of misery and despair. Housing is basic by Western standards but the pacification has helped build a stronger infrastructure. There are problems. The biggest seems to be waste disposal, understandably difficult at the top of a steep mountain. It’s not perfect, but then where is?

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Santa Marta Favela Tour

Over one million Rio de Janeiro residents live in the hundreds of favelas across the city and Santa Marta is home to over 5,000 people. Organised tours are available through local tour groups and it is encouraged to find a tour that benefits the local community directly.  Thiago Firmino is a local resident offering tours of Santa Marta in both Portuguese and English.  

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5 of the Best Rio de Janeiro Favela Tours

Tours of Rio de Janeiro’s favelas with local guides are a great way to ensure support for the local community while learning about its vibrant culture. Here are five of the best options.

(Photo: Getyourguide.com)

Perhaps it was the film “City of God,” the World Cup, the Olympics or a combination of all three, but Rio de Janeiro’s favelas have gained something of an absurd romanticism. The resulting plethora of tours have, in turn, brought fresh tourism revenue right into the heart of poorer areas of the city. Some estimates suggest that 1.5 million people inhabit the city’s favelas, and these top five tours are the best way to get educated on, and fully understand, the unique culture and lifestyle of them.

Favela Santa Marta local guide tour

High above the main city, the Santa Marta favela has some incredible views out towards Ipanema and Sugar Loaf Mountain. During the course of this two-hour walking excursion, you will explore the mazey streets with a local resident, who knows all the best viewpoints, local craft shops and intriguing nooks of the neighbourhood. This tour is overwhelmingly loved by previous guests and runs from Monday to Saturday every week. From $32 per person.

Book at Getyourguide.com

Rocinha favela walking tour

Rio de Janeiro’s biggest favela is Rocinha, with around 70,000 residents. This local guide-led trip is aimed at giving people an insider’s perspective on the daily life and ongoing challenges of poverty and overcrowding that the locals face. See murals and hillsides covered in ramshackle buildings. See local commerce in action, as well as the efforts of local organizations to improve living conditions in the favela. As with the other tours on this list, the tour fee includes a small contribution to the local community. From $35 per person.

Book at Viator.com

Rio: Half-day Rocinha favela walking tour

With the aim of debunking myths and breaking down stereotypes, this four-hour walking tour in Rocinha is another one run by a local resident that aims to be respectful and non-intrusive to the neighbourhood’s residents. This tour takes you to meet locals who are happy to tell their stories about life in the favela. This is among the most highly rated favela tours in Brazil and offers the chance for a view of the cityscape from a good vantage point. From $36 per person.

Vidigal favela tour and Two Brothers hike

Vidigal favela is fast transforming into an up-and-coming neighbourhood in Rio de Janeiro, with hip bars and vibrant street art. It’s testament to the potentially transformative power of encouraging visitors to come from the outside to spend their money on local commerce. This tour combines an exploration of Vidigal favela with a guided hike up the verdant Two Brothers hill, where expansive views of the city are the reward for your efforts. Daily departures. From $36 per person.

Rio de Janeiro favela Jeep tour

Getting around the favelas, which often dot steep hillsides, is not always an easy task, so a Jeep tour makes neighbourhoods such as Rocinha much more accessible. With pick-up and drop-offs at select hotels, your tour guide will convey you around Rocinha, heading to viewpoints and visiting local institutions such as Samba School Academicos de Rocinha. On certain days, you’ll also get to explore bustling street fairs on foot, where you can buy local crafts and food. From $75 per person.

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Santa Marta Favela Tour

When planning my trip to Rio de Janeiro, numerous people warned me of the dangers of the city and discouraged me from visiting the favelas. Not only was I advised not to visit because of safety concerns, but also due to the fact that these ‘tours’ can be seen as ‘poverty tourism’- a somewhat controversial topic. As this was my first solo trip and Rio was the first destination on my travels, I was over-cautious and felt slightly apprehensive about the prospect of visiting a favela.

After a lot of research and discussions with locals who outlined the importance of the tours and encouraged me to take one, I was eager to challenge the preconceptions surrounding the favelas and experience the different sides of Brazil for myself. I booked a tour of ‘Santa Marta favela’ with a small local company for a reasonable price. The company I used was recommended by a friend who had taken tours with this company on her visit to Rio. They can be found on Facebook or Instagram- RX Real Rio Experience.

Favelas- What are they?

Favelas are settlements of working-class communities which live in the steep hillsides. In English, the world favela translates to ‘slum’ or ‘shanty town’, although these terms can portray negative connotations and therefore the word ‘favela’ should be used. Every favela is different and therefore the architectural design differs, however most favelas are typically flat-roofed houses stacked on top of one another. Often many families will live in the same ‘block’ which can be 3 or even 4 stories high; as the families expand, the buildings will be built higher in order to house everyone. Due to the landscape of Rio, the favelas are easy to spot, having been built high up into the hills.

History of the favelas

Favelas have a long history in Rio and date back to the 1800s. When migrant workers came to Rio in search of employment, they found it increasingly difficult to find affordable housing so began to settle in the hillsides and create their own. The government tried many times to move these settlements, but failed and as a result the communities expanded. Over the years, the number of people living in favelas has increased dramatically. Rio is now home to an estimated 1000 favelas. With more than ¼ of Rio’s population living in favelas, these communities play a significant role in the city of Rio de Janeiro. Like all communities, the favelas differ significantly. Some favelas are cut off from the rest of the city and lack basic amenities such as irrigation and waste management systems, whilst others have good infrastructures and electricity.

Favelas are typically stigmatised as places of poverty with high levels of criminal activity. Due to the fact the government basically ignored the presence of the favelas, the communities took it upon themselves to set their own rules and create a living, often through organised crime groups and drug trafficking.

After many years of conflict between the police and gangs for control of the favelas, the government implemented a new approach in an attempt to control, or at least reduce the violence, crime and gang-controlled operations and introduce social change projects. The (UPP) ‘Pacifying Police Units’ programme began in 2008 and was rolled out across many favelas. Santa Marta was the first favela in Rio to be pacified and now there are approximately 44 pacified favelas in Rio de Janeiro.  

Santa Marta Favela

Santa Marta favela is located in the Botafogo neighbourhood and is home to more than 8000 residents. It would be classified as one of the smaller favelas, with others such as Rocinha housing over 70,000 residents. Once upon a time, Santa Marta was a violent favela in Rio and a tour there would definitely not have been a possibility. As a result of the pacification project, it is now one of the safer favelas and has had a lot of modern elements installed such as sewage tanks, electricity and a tram line to allow transportation up and down the hills.

In 1996 Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie put ‘Santa Marta’ on the worldwide map by choosing to film their music video ‘They don’t care about us’ there. The government initially rejected the project; however, they won the support of the community and completed the video, hiring local residents and dancers to be part of it. The film gave an insight into favela life and demonstrated the vibrant, community spirit and the injustice that marginalized communities across the world face. From then on, Michael was regarded a hero by the community and a statue and mosaic mural were created in his honour. In the little gift shops, there are TVS showing the music video and selling Michael Jackson memorabilia.

My experience in Santa Marta Favela

I met the guide David and the rest of the group at 11am at a local history museum in Botafogo neighbourhood- ‘Fundacao casa de Rul Barbosa’. There were 4 of us in the group in total so it was a nice small group. From the museum we walked to the favela where we met the local guide. He had lived in the favela all of his life and therefore had first hand experience.

We started the tour by taking the funicular to the top of the hill to admire the views over Rio. The higher up we went, it was apparent the differences in the houses. The majority of houses were made from concrete and brick, but some had been built with mud, wood and other corrugated materials. It was also a noticeable difference between the pacified favela and another ‘un-pacified’ favela which was very closely located higher in the hills.

During the tour, we had the opportunity to explore the windy alleys, browse in the little shops and bakeries and see the Michael Jackson mural and statue which overlooks Santa Marta and the city of Rio. When walking through the favela, there was an uplifting sense of community and a vibrant feel with street art on the walls and sides of buildings, music being played everywhere and children happily playing.

Before the tour, David asked us if we enjoyed playing football. Being a big football fan myself, I said ‘yes, of course, why?’. Little did we know, we would have the opportunity to play against the Brazilians! Half way through the tour, we met the local children who invited us to play a game of football against them. We played for around 30 minutes with them and I was exhausted- they were phenomenal (even with no shoes on- typical Brazilian style of course!)

As more of the community noticed we were playing, they began to join in. By the end of the match there were adults, children and toddlers playing; it was a fantastic experience and a great opportunity to engage with the community. Half way through the game we shared some snacks and drinks with the children whilst they chatted to us about football and how they played every day. I was amazed at how good the children were, even the really young children. They had clearly been taught to play as soon as they could walk!

A reality check hit when we came around the corner and walked past a young man in his mid-20s casually carrying a hand gun like it was a bag of shopping! I instantly looked at the guide and he assured me not to worry. He stated that previously the favela was 90% controlled by gangs, however nowadays it was between 5-10% due to the pacification and therefore this person would probably have been part of this percentage. Nevertheless, it surprised me!

Afterwards we were invited into the local guides house to make caipirinhas (a traditional Brazilian drink). He showed us around his house and the different floors. It was fascinating to see how a house which looked so small and somewhat basic from the outside had been transformed inside. We climbed up the narrow staircase to the third floor to begin the drinks class. We watched the demonstration of how to make the drink and then we had the chance to give it ago ourselves. Although it was very tasty, I had already experienced the effect of the caipirinhas so I went steady on the cachaca!

We spent some time talking with the guide whilst he told us stories about growing up in the favela and the different social projects that had been introduced to improve the outcomes for the local people. He was extremely knowledgeable and passionate about his community and eager to share the improvements that had been made over the years.

On our exit towards the favela, we were lucky enough to meet the ‘president’ of the favela. He invited us inside his little office building and we were given the opportunity to ask him any questions we had. When I said I was visiting from England, he was eager to show me a picture of one of the royal princesses that had visited and the photo they had taken together. Living in the favela all of his life, he explained how things had changed since it had been pacified and discussed rules and regulations in the favela. He was a very friendly and approachable man who was happy to share his experiences and answer any of our questions.

During our discussion, the president was interrupted by a middle-aged man who requested his attention stating he had an emergency. The president politely excused himself to speak with the man. Heartbreakingly, the man’s son had just taken his own life and the police needed to be called. Within seconds of leaving the building, the alley was filled with numerous armed military police carrying assault rifles, whilst 3 police carried the body bag through the favela. As we walked behind the group, residents lined the streets to pay their respects to the young man. This was a very tragic and emotional moment for everyone in the community. We were informed by the guide that this was a very rare occurrence and they had never experienced anything like this on a tour before. Sudden and unforeseen deaths happen in all communities and this could have happened anywhere, it had nothing to do with the fact we were in a favela.

As we left the favela, I reflected on the morning and although I felt speechless of what we had just witnessed, the rest of the favela experience had been very positive and exceeded my expectations. I felt very thankful for the opportunity to take the tour and learn about the community, the people and their lives.

I booked the tour with David through his Instagram page- RX Real Rio Experience and the price was 100 Brazilian reals which is approximately £15.00 GBP. This was in 2019 so the price may have changed since then.

The tour was on a morning, beginning at 11am and it took around 2-3 hours in total.

Are they safe?

To be truthfully honest, I felt safe at all times when visiting Santa Marta favela. The residents were friendly and welcoming and our guide assured us that the local people are very happy for tourists to visit, learn about life in the favela and bring money into the community.  As I took the tour with a local guide, I felt safe knowing that he was well-respected and well-known by the local people. He was very eager to show his community in a positive light and tell us all about the social change projects that were taking place there.

It would be crazy to assume that all crime has been abolished in Santa Marta; crime does still exist and you need to exercise precautions when walking around. Although I felt pretty safe, I don’t think I would have felt comfortable venturing into the favela alone.

Here are a few recommendations for keeping safe when in a favela:

• Use a local tour guide.
• Don’t wear fancy things- clothes, jewellery.
• The children will probably ask you for money. Don’t give money to them.
• Be careful when taking pictures with expensive cameras/ top of the range smartphones. 
• Respect the people and their houses. You are on a tour and it is fine to take photographs, but you do not want to offend anyone so be careful taking photos of people or inside their homes. If you are unsure whether you can take pictures, ask your guide.

Should you visit a favela when visiting Rio?

Yes, visiting the favela was a fantastic experience and one which I would totally recommend doing. As I mentioned earlier, I was very hesitant before and I am so glad I decided to take the tour. It is an eye-opening and educational experience which will broaden your awareness and cultural knowledge and allow you to see the real Rio de Janeiro, not just the affluent areas, ‘boujee’ 5-star hotels and the sandy white beaches.

If you decide to take a tour, I would recommend seeking out a tour ran by a local resident.

Do you need a tour guide?  No, it is possible to visit alone without a guide if you would prefer, however using a local guide (one that actually lives in the favela) means you are giving something back to the community. You can gain an insight into their lives, hear stories about the community and develop an understanding of the harsh realities and economic struggles that the favela has been through. I would never have learnt so much about Santa Marta if it had not been for our amazing guide. Also, it was like a maze, so I would have probably ended up completely lost!

Have you taken a favela tour before or would you like too? Share your experiences in the comments below.

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If you are looking for a guided experience in a favela with a company that is from within the favela then you are in the right place. Promote your tour with who knows the favela and was raised in it. Ensure your seat in this tour! Contact +55(21)99177-9459 (whatsapp) or [email protected]

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How far is Krasnodar from Santa Marta?

The distance between Santa Marta (Simón Bolívar International Airport) and Krasnodar (Krasnodar International Airport) is 6778 miles / 10908 kilometers / 5890 nautical miles.

Simón Bolívar International Airport – Krasnodar International Airport

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Distance from santa marta to krasnodar.

There are several ways to calculate the distance from Santa Marta to Krasnodar. Here are two standard methods:

• 6778.153 miles
• 10908.379 kilometers
• 5890.054 nautical miles

Vincenty's formula calculates the distance between latitude/longitude points on the earth's surface using an ellipsoidal model of the planet.

• 6770.246 miles
• 10895.655 kilometers
• 5883.183 nautical miles

The haversine formula calculates the distance between latitude/longitude points assuming a spherical earth (great-circle distance – the shortest distance between two points).

How long does it take to fly from Santa Marta to Krasnodar?

The estimated flight time from Simón Bolívar International Airport to Krasnodar International Airport is 13 hours and 20 minutes.

What is the time difference between Santa Marta and Krasnodar?

The time difference between Santa Marta and Krasnodar is 8 hours. Krasnodar is 8 hours ahead of Santa Marta.

Flight carbon footprint between Simón Bolívar International Airport (SMR) and Krasnodar International Airport (KRR)

On average, flying from Santa Marta to Krasnodar generates about 824 kg of CO2 per passenger, and 824 kilograms equals 1 816 pounds (lbs). The figures are estimates and include only the CO2 generated by burning jet fuel.

Map of flight path from Santa Marta to Krasnodar

See the map of the shortest flight path between Simón Bolívar International Airport (SMR) and Krasnodar International Airport (KRR).

Airport information

Krasnodar, Russia

Tours, Attractions and Things To Do in Krasnodar

Here we are in the South of Russia. Welcome to Krasnodar, a major economic and cultural center of North Caucasus, also called “the capital of Kuban”. Krasnodar, perhaps, is one of the most interesting resort towns of the Russian Federation. It is a relatively young city founded by the Cossacks in в 1793 on the lands granted by Ekaterina II (hence its former name was Ekaterinodar). Later, when the Soviet system rose to power, the city was re-named to Krasnodar in 1920, and it preserved this name up to date.

Krasnodar is a center of the Russia’s southern touristic zone, located of the right bank of the Kuban River, 120-150 km from two warm seas – the Black and the Azov. It is an interesting fact that the city is located in the golden section of the Earth, almost in between the equator and the North Pole, right on the 45th parallel, also called “the Golden Line” or “the Life Line”. There exists an opinion that the living conditions in these latitudes are most favorable for human.

In spite of the city’s “youth” Krasnodar has many historical landmarks, while its architectural look is various and represented by different styles from Baroque and Classicism to late Modern. In Krasnodar, there is one of the largest Russian churches – Saint Catherine’s Cathedral, built as early as in 1914 and survived by a miracle under the Soviet power. It is also worth while visiting the Krasnodar main Orthodox Church – Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. Interesting and dramatic, was the fate of this, one of the Russia’s most beautiful churches, an example of Russian and Byzantine templar style. Alexander Nevsky Military Cathedral was erected in April 1853, but later on, in year 1932 it was blown up by the Communists. And it was not until May 2006 when the inauguration ceremony of Alexander Nevsky Cathedral built anew took place.

Nowadays the Krasnodar architectural variety combines the harmony of old and modern structures. Now, next to the churches there are also modern high-rise buildings (the Marriott Hotel”), shopping and entertainment centers (“Red Square”), modern concert halls (Palace of Arts “Premiere”), restaurants, and night clubs. The city also strikes with its numerous museums, theaters, art galleries. Particularly, if you find yourself in Krasnodar, we recommend you to visit the Krasnodar Regional Art Museum named after F. A. Kovalenko to enjoy a rare collection of Russian avant-garde and Dutch art of XVI century, and also attend concerts of SSAI “Kuban Cossack chorus” to listen to Kuban Cossack, Russian and Ukrainian folk-songs.

Two Krasnodar unusual landmarks enjoy wide popularity among tourists and local community: the Monument to a purse and the Monument to the doggies in love. Do you want to turn round? Then you are to the purse. It is enough to rub your purse over it, and you will have more money. But if you are unlucky in love, then the loving couple of dogs will help you, you should stroke their small paws and love will certainly come to you.

Explore Krasnodar

Plan Your Trip to Krasnodar: Best of Krasnodar Tourism

Essential krasnodar.

Krasnodar Is Great For

Concerts & shows

Eat & drink

• Hilton Garden Inn Krasnodar
• Crowne Plaza Krasnodar - Centre
• Rimar Hotel Krasnodar
• Villa Italy Hotel
• Platforma 9 3/4
• Balkan Grill
• Galitskogo Park
• Krasnaya Ploshhad Shopping Mall
• Monument to Catherine the Great
• Lagonaki plateaue - day trip to mountains, UNESCO World Heritage site
• Romantic tour in Krasnodar
• Krasnodar City Tour-the southern capital of Russia
• Magic Christmas tour in Krasnodar
• Wine tour to Russian Champagne House Abrau-Durso