Rio in One Day: Full-Day Private Sightseeing Tour
About this activity
Highlights
- Visit the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue
- Ride the cable car up Sugarloaf Mountain
- Explore the vibrant Selarón Steps
- Discover downtown Rio's historic sites
- Enjoy panoramic views of Copacabana Beach
Full description
Included / Excluded
- Private transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off
- Professional English-speaking guide
- Admission fees to Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf Mountain, and Selarón Steps
- Meals and beverages
Itinerary
Pass by: You'll be met at your hotel by your private guide and head to the base of Corcovado Mountain by car, passing by Rio's beaches and the Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon on the way.
Reaching the Cosme Velho district, you'll take a unique Swiss cogwheel train that climbs the mountain from its base to nearly the summit. The very top is reached by climbing a flight of stairs to arrive at the iconic Christ the Redeemer Statue. The view, from this vantage point, with the surrounding Tijuca National Forest spreading below and a circle of mountains closing the horizon at the very back of the Guanabara bay is truly spectacular. After some time to walk around and take photos, we make the way back down.
We then head towards to the bohemian Santa Teresa neighborhood, home to a collection of local boutiques and galleries. The charming area of Santa Teresa also features many trendy bars and restaurants offering several options of snacks and dishes, not to mention its breathtaking views. Don’t miss out on it!
From Santa Teresa to Lapa, there is the famous Selaron steps, a stairway decorated with colorful tiles. Known for its energetic bohemian vibe, “Lapa” is the most buzzing area in town day and nighttime.
Pass by: Have you ever heard of the Lapa neighborhood? If not, it should! It's very easy to know that you've arrived in Lapa. There is a famous monument that is the official image of Lapa, the large white arches aqueduct postcard of Rio.
Walk through Rio’s downtown through some of the coolest touristic areas catching sights and culture until Mauá square. The walk passes by historic attractions, lots of bars and restaurants, arriving at Mauá square where all tribes and people get together.
See a different side of Rio in its up-and-coming Porto Maravilha area symbol of the renewed Rio after the Olympics.
Mural painted by Eduardo Kobra listed by the Guinness Book of Records as the largest graffiti in the world.
Admire the gorgeous cutting-edge museum structure, designed by famous architect Santiago Calatrava.
The Metropolitan Cathedral of Rio de Janeiro stands out among the buildings in the Center of the city. Its unique architecture catches the attention of everyone passing by and surprises those who visit it! Its appearance and history are unconventional and make it one of the most curious spots in the wonderful city!
Pass by: The Sambodrome is the home to the Rio Carnival, where the parades take place during three nights every year, a concrete structure built specifically for the Carnival. It's an avenue with bleachers on both sides divided into sectors.
Pass by: Beautiful building and preserved architecture. It's one of the most important Brazilian theaters.
The most important Brazilian football temple. Scenery of important Brazilian football classic and facts, like hosting the final matches for the 1950 and 2014 football World Cup and the Olympics final football match in 2014.
Pass by: Beach that inspired the composition of the famous song "Ipanema Girl”. Beautiful beach that deserves all the fame and admiration.
We will then go up the Sugarloaf Mountain. A series of two cable cars will take you to the top of Sugar Loaf. At the top, again some of the most breathtaking views of Rio, this time from a different vantage point than at Corcovado. After that, tourists may want to enjoy lunch at a very nice “all-you-can-eat buffet” steakhouse restaurant (not included).
Pass by: Pass by Copacabana beach that was inspiration of songs and poetry, and one of the most famous postcards in Brazil. Copacabana is also stage of one of the biggest New Year's Eve in the world, the neighborhood of Rio de Janeiro has a lot of history, cultural life and bohemia.
Important information
Know before you book
- This tour is wheelchair accessible; please inform the operator in advance if assistance is required.
- Children under 6 years old must be accompanied by an adult; booster seats are available upon request.
- The tour operates rain or shine; in case of severe weather, certain attractions may be rescheduled or substituted.
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a hat or sunscreen for sun protection.
- Carry a camera to capture the stunning views and vibrant street art.
- Be prepared for varying weather conditions; a light jacket may be advisable.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Accessibility
- Infant Seats Available
Traveler reviews
Christ the redeemer, sugarloaf mountain
Private touring the only way to go, with a guide who knows how to adjust to your request. Edwardo was the best. Be prepared for a good education.
Thanks Marcio!! Best guide experience
We came to Rio for Carnival 2026 — just me and my 19-year-old son — and having Marcio Briggs from Greg Tour with us made the whole trip something we’ll never forget. Rio during Carnival is intense, wild, beautiful, a little crazy… and Marcio just made it all feel easy. He didn’t feel like a “guide.” He felt like a friend who happens to know absolutely everything about the city. The history, the culture, the real-life stories, the things locals think but don’t say out loud — he shared all of it in a way that was fun and natural. And somehow… everywhere we went, doors opened. We were welcomed with smiles. Things flowed. It just worked. He knows people, and people clearly like him. As a dad traveling with my son, what meant the most was how safe and comfortable we felt the entire time. Marcio was calm, attentive, always one step ahead without ever making it feel controlled or rigid. He just took care of us. He read the vibe perfectly — when to explain, when to move, when to let us just stand there and take in the magic of Rio. This trip gave my son and me memories we’ll talk about for the rest of our lives. And Marcio is a huge reason why. Thank you, Marcio — for your kindness, your care, your energy, and your big heart. Rio is special… but you made it unforgettable.
Great day in Rio de Janeiro
Vitor was an amazing guide who took us around the sights and giving really good information. His knowledge was so great. I would thoroughly recommend him and the tour.
An Unforgettable 10-Hour Private Tour of Rio
This 10-hour private tour of Rio was absolutely incredible and it was all thanks to the amazing guide Camila. She is exceptionally knowledgeable, full of enthusiasm, and truly passionate about her city. Her energy was contagious and she genuinely made me fall in love with Rio. The entire day was perfectly organized and timed. Every stop was carefully planned so we could enjoy the sights without heavy crowds, which made the experience even more enjoyable and relaxed. We have covered most of the sights and I have been treated to real gastronomical delights too! The car was comfortable and the driver very polite and helpful, making the long day feel effortless. I couldn’t have asked for a better way to explore Rio. This tour exceeded all expectations, and I would wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone visiting the city. A truly five-star experience!
Excellent and highly recommend
My daughter and I spent 5 days in Rio de Janeiro, which we loved Our travel Agent had organised a 10 hour private tour via Rio Caroca Tour Ltd. We were picked up and dropped off from our hotel on Copacabana beach. The driver (sorry cannot remember her name) was brilliant. A fantastic driver knew the areas and we both felt very comfortable with her driving skills. A lovely lady and very friendly. Our tour guide (Camila) was also brilliant, seemed to have a good rapport with tour site, vendors and was very knowledgeable is Rio’s past and present. The day was beautiful which made it extra special. We explored both tourist spots and local areas, which we believe shows the real Rio de Janeiro. We visited so many places including Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf Mountain, Copacabana Beach, Santa Teresa, the Cathedral of Saint Sebastia, Boulevard Olimpico and Selaron Steps We highly recommend to tour