Rio de Janeiro is one of the most perfect places for a couple to take a vacation. It boasts warm, tropical weather and a vibrance that is unmatched. The festive feeling never leaves you while you’re roaming the streets.
Whether you’re taking your honeymoon or planning a spontaneous romantic getaway, Rio de Janeiro will be everything you want and more. There are tons of activities to make your getaway unforgettable.
With Rio being one of the most affordable travel destinations, many South Africans couples are booking their trips! Here are some romantic activities that are not to be missed:
Visit Parque Lage
This 1840s, English-style 128-acre garden has a lot for couples to see. With fountains, walking paths and endless greenery you’re sure to get some great photos. Parque Lage also has a 19-century mansion which is home to an art school. To make the visit perfect, there is also a cafe and a restaurant where you can have a relaxed, pool-side meal.
Hike up Pedra Bonita
The name Pedra Bonita means Pretty Rock; the name alone makes it a good place for a romantic activity. If you’re worried about your fitness level, there is no need! The hike is one of the easiest in Rio, it only takes about 40 minutes to reach summit.
Its level of difficulty, however, says nothing about its worthiness; the view from the top is one you won’t want to miss! If you’re looking for something to get your adrenaline pumping, there is also paragliding and hang-gliding on offer at the summit.
Explore Santa Teresa
Let your inner tourist out in the hills of Santa Teresa. Cobbled streets, vintage stores, pubs, and welcoming locals are what you’ll find in Santa Teresa. Spend a few hours walking the streets and viewing the colourful buildings. You can catch some amazing views of the city if you pick the right restaurant.
Take a cable car up Sugarloaf Mountain
The cable car starts at Praia Vermelha Beach, stops at Morro da Urca (halfway to the summit) and then makes its way to the top of Sugarloaf mountain. This is sure to be one of the most unforgettable experiences, with views you couldn’t imagine. To add an extra splash of romance, take the trip at sunset!
Visit Christ the Redeemer
You can’t visit Rio de Janeiro without visiting Christ the Redeemer. It is one of Rio’s top attractions and is one of the seven modern wonders of the world.
Watch the Samba bands in Pedra do Sal
Pedra do Sal is the birthplace of Samba! Every Monday you’ll find Samba bands and locals enjoying the music until 2am. Join in the fun for no cost at all.
Take a dip at Cachoeira do Horto
While Rio is popular for its beaches, this waterfall offers a more relaxed, secluded swimming opportunity. If you want to escape the crowds, this is a good option. Surrounded by tall trees and vegetation, Cacheoira do Horto has three rock pools in which you can cool off. To get there, you’ll have to take a short, 15-minute hike from Tijuca National Park.
A day trip to Ilha Grande
Only a 30-minute boat trip out away from Rio lies the Ilha Grande. The island is car free, giving it an untouched feel. It boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Rio and also has a variety of hikes for you to choose from. When you get hungry, make your way to one of the beach-side bars, or have a romantic dinner on the beach. Spend a day there and make the most of it!
Visit the Jardim Botanico do Rio de Janeiro
Stretching across 338 acres, this is one of Rio’s largest parks. There are more than 6500 plant species to look at, along with animals such as monkeys, birds, and reptiles. This is a great place to get some couple photos and take a romantic stroll.
Swim in the world famous Copacabana Beach
A dip in the ocean is another one of those things you must do in Rio. Copacabana is easily one of, if not the most, popular beaches in Rio. It is world famous, we’re sure you know the song! Even if you’d prefer to avoid big crowds, you should still swing by this beach. It’s a must-do for the ultimate Rio experience.
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