Favelas are part of the carioca landscape. Even if the word has a negative connotation, it is a reality in Brazil. But what does that exactly mean? Favelas aredisadvantaged neighborhoods with mostly a lack of infrastructures and means. We often associate favela with violence, insecurity, drug and traffic. Nevertheless we should look well beyond the stereotype. We share the same basics needs, feeding our family, and maintaining our home for example. Beginning in 2008, Pacifying Police Units began to be implemented within various favelas in the city of Rio de Janeiro. The UPP is a law enforcement and social services program aimed at reclaiming territories controlled by drug traffickers. Even if the program is quite controversial they did note the drop in the violence rate within Rio de Janeiro’s favelas. A new form of tourism has emerged in Rio de Janeiro, the favela tour. This new growing market of tourism has evolved in a few particular favelas. There are conflicting views on whether or not favela tourism is an ethical practice. These tours drawawareness to the needs of the underprivileged population living in these favelas, while giving tourists access to a side of Rio that often lurks in the shadows. They offer a brief portrayal of Rio’s hillside communities that are far more than the habitats often misrepresented by drug lords and criminals. However, it is strongly recommended to visit a favela with a guide. Allez Samba Riooffers you a really picturesque favela visit (in the Zona Sul). You will, with a NGO, discover interesting projects that have been carrying out by the community: theatre, dance and music. Bringing art into the favela allows those who didn’t have the opportunities to unleash their creativity and potential.

At the very top, you can enjoy a breathless and privileged view of all Rio.

Have a guava juice while enjoying the sunlight.

For those who would like to spend the night there, we selected lovely hotels for you. Just wake up with an incredible panoramic view on the sea. Simply amazing!

So don’t wait any longer and book for this unique experience and get to know another face of Brazil!

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