Rio de Janeiro, Brazil » Entertainment » Activities

Rio is located in South America and is therefore blessed with a tropical climate throughout the year. There are a number of outdoor activities which one can enjoy during their visit. Activities include nature treks, sports on sun kissed beaches, cycling & hiking paths, water sports in the gorgeous ocean and much more!

Soccer

Soccer is the national sport of Brazil and is the most popular activity played. So it is very common that you will come across a soccer match on every nook and corner in Rio.

Maracanã football Stadium

Playing soccer in Rio's hot weather can be very tiring, especially if you are playing against some of the skilful locals who are used to the heat. If you are in need of a break but still want to stick to the same activity then why not admire some soccer played at the Maracana stadium. Soccer matches are constantly played here all year round. You should try to book the lower seats i.e. the ‘cadeiras’, so that you can get a good view of the game. You can contact the stadium managers for ongoing matches, so that you book your tickets in advance.

This stadium is known to host some of the most exciting games in the world, with continuous noise from rowdy fans, singing and playing the samba drums.

Address: Av Maracana, Sao Cristovao

Tel: +55 21 22992 941

Water Sports

The coastal city of Rio offers many activities that are centred on the beach and in the sea. Some of the activities include water sports such as scuba diving, surfing, body boarding and kite surfing. You can also enjoy a game of beach volleyball with the locals or a more laid back game like fresco ball. If you enjoy surfing, then you can benefit from the sea waves of Copacabana, Ipanema, Barra, Grumari, Joá and Prainha. The main spot for scuba diving is at Cagarras Islands, near Ipanema. However, diving is only possible at the end of the summer. There are many good diving centres with English speaking instructors.

For further information, Visit Ocean Diving Centre.

For further information, Visit Diving Point.

Cycling

Cycling can be quite a fun activity in Rio. There are separate cycling routes along the beaches and throughout the city. Whether you are alone or with family, you can always view nearby spots by hiring a bicycle. For the budget conscious this can turn out to be a cheap mode of transportation and for the fitness conscious a great way to remain healthy. Some of the famous trails for cycling include those in Vargem Grande. Furthermore there are many cycling paths at the Parque do Flamengo and there is an ideal cycling track at the Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas.

For further information, Visit Season Turismo & Esporte.

Hiking, Rock Climbing and Hang Gliding

Another good activity is to go for a hike or a climb. The Tijuca National Forest is the best option is you are an outdoor nature lover. There are many medium to difficult trails available in the forest to enjoy a good hike. If you are a tourist, it is advisable that you take the help of a local guide. If you enjoy rock climbing then the mountains of Sugar Loaf and Corcovado are famous for this purpose. If you are adventurous and like to take risks then you can try Hang Gliding at Sao Conrado which is the jumping off point. You can get an aerial view of Tijuca National Park and the beaches of Rio as you soar in the air.

For further information, Visit Rio Hiking.

For further information, Visit Rio Adventures.

For further information, Visit Climb in Rio.

For further information, Visit Centro Excursionista Brasileira.

For further information, Visit Konrad Heilmann.

For further information, Visit Superfly.

Walking and Jogging

For those that enjoy exploring, walking and jogging are ideal activities in Rio. Take a refreshing stroll around the outdoors which is not only economical but also a healthy way to admire the natural beauty of Rio. The Pista Claudio Coutinho is exclusively for walkers and joggers, located between the ocean and the mountains, this area is ideal for breathtaking views.