The 7 Rio de Janeiro History Tours to Book First

1.Rio: Tijuca Forest Small Group Hike to Caves and Waterfalls

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 536 reviews · 6 hours · from $69Our pick

Hike Tijuca Forest to waterfalls, caves, ruins, and a historic chapel with a bilingual guide, hotel pickup, and a refreshing waterfall swim.

“It is a little bit disappointing that we haven’t seen any animals. The whole hike was fine, but not so much interesting to see in the forest. A few waterfalls and a cave didn’t impress, and there are a lot people there. So far Vinnie was ok.”

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2.Historic Rio and Santa Teresa Half-Day Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.4 · 228 reviews · 4 hours · from $47

Explore Rio’s historic center, Lapa, and Santa Teresa on a four-hour guided tour with hotel pickup and views from Parque das Ruínas.

“Jaqueline was amazing with us, she made all the efforts possible to gets us to every point even though it was raining. We enjoyed it so much”

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3.Little Africa Heritage Walking Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 177 reviews · 2h 30m · from $40Best value

Explore Rio’s Little Africa on a moving 150-minute walk through samba, Afro-Brazilian culture, slavery, art, and the port district’s key sites.

“Nathalia was wonderful! Definitely recommending this tour to friends!”

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4.Ancient Rio and Santa Teresa Tour with Hotel pick-up and drop-off

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 154 reviews · 4 hours (approx.) · from $55

Review of Rio’s Ancient Rio and Santa Teresa tour, with historic sights, hotel pickup, practical tips, guide notes, value, and drawbacks.

“Ut us Very useful to be drop off at thé hôtel Thé guide was sympathic and thé trip was cool and interesting”

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5.Rio: Olympic Boulevard, Museum of Tomorrow & History Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.1 · 47 reviews · 4 hours · from $67

Review of Rio’s four-hour Downtown tour, with the Museum of Tomorrow, Kobra mural, Valongo Wharf, Olympic Boulevard, and Confeitaria Colombo.

“Pedro was very much dedicated with the history of Brazil. I enjoyed the tour with him. He was very informative . We learned so much about the history of Brazil. Thank you Pedro for all that you taught us about the history of Brazil.”

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6.Historical Downtown and Lapa Walking Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.4 · 32 reviews · 3 hours · from $60

Explore Rio’s historic downtown and Lapa on a three-hour small-group walk with local guides, grand buildings, café stops, and practical city tips.

“A perfect way to connect with Brasilian history and the foundation of Rio. No questions unanswered by our guide in excellent English. Many historic events and the transformation of city center through centuries covered in a interesting way. All with a well timed pitstop at Colombo café. Our only good advice for the organizer is to be more precise with the meeting point and reachable on phone in connection with the activity. Grateful for all we now know!”

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7.Rio: Historical Walking Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 32 reviews · 4 hours · from $79

Explore Rio’s historic center by subway and on foot, with grand churches, cultural centers, Colonial squares, and expert local guidance.

“Monique was a pleasure! Enjoyed our time with her!”

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