
The real life behind the word favela
Traveler rating
4.9/5
Based on 198 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is The real life behind the word favela worth booking?
The real life behind the word favela is a 3-hour experience in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, from $71 per person. It scores 83 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 4.9/5 rating across 198 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 83 / 100
- Rating
- 4.9/5 (198)
- Duration
- 3 hours
- From
- $71 per person
The real life of a favela, forget everything you know and come to discover it yourself! Our guides Pablo and Henrique were born in Rocinha, they’ll be delighted to tell you their story. You’ll live in immersion for a day in the largest favela of Latin America. The experience begins with the famous motorcycle taxis that will take you to admire a breathtaking view. After you going to discover a typical house with once again an incredible panorama. We’ll walk inside the bécos of Rocinha (small streets of Favela). You’ll have the opportunity to learn more about a social Capoiera project. But also other cultural points + some surprises. Regarding safety, don’t panic, the Rocinha favela is a safe place and our guides will stay with you from the beginning to the end of the tour. We look forward to having you with us.
What you get
About this experience
The real life of a favela, forget everything you know and come to discover it yourself! Our guides Pablo and Henrique were born in Rocinha, they’ll be delighted to tell you their story. You’ll live in immersion for a day in the largest favela of Latin America. The experience begins with the famous motorcycle taxis that will take you to admire a breathtaking view. After you going to discover a typical house with once again an incredible panorama. We’ll walk inside the bécos of Rocinha (small streets of Favela). You’ll have the opportunity to learn more about a social Capoiera project. But also other cultural points + some surprises. Regarding safety, don’t panic, the Rocinha favela is a safe place and our guides will stay with you from the beginning to the end of the tour. We look forward to having you with us.
What's included
Included
- Private transportation
- Personal guide
- View point
Not included
- Souvenir
- Foods
What you'll see and do
Salocin Tour
Forget everything you know about the Rocinha favela and come discover this place. Rocinha is the largest favela in Latin America, it's a city within the city. We're an agency created by a local guide (9 years of experience). The idea of this tour is show the real life inside the favela. To make you live a local, social and cultural experience.
180 minutes here · Admission included
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Rio de Janeiro
São Conrado Metro Station - Exit B, Estr. da Gávea - São Conrado, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 22610-001, Brazil
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
São Conrado Metro Station - Exit B, Estr. da Gávea - São Conrado, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 22610-001, Brazil
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- pt, en, it, fr, es
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 10 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Favela Lives Tour
Know before you go
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 198 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
8 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
7 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Photo opportunities
3 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Traveler reviews
198 verified traveler reviews for The real life behind the word favela. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
BEST TOUR EVER!!!
I didn't know what to expect when I signed up for my favela tour in Rio, but during and afterwards I was incredibly happy that I booked it!! Me and my friends were picked up at our hotel by our tour guide Alex and his driver, Fabio, on time and they were very friendly and made us feel comfortable right away. On our drive to the famous Rocinha Favela in the South Zone of Rio, Alex gave us an excellent history of the city, the people and the customs of the Cariocas-- the native people of Rio De Janeiro. While we were in the favela, Alex kept us safe and made us feel at home as he guided us through the winding roads and staircases of the unique mountain community he grew up in. We were able to sample the sights and sounds of Rocinha, purchase unique souvenirs and artwork and we were treated to an awesome Capoeira demonstration that really amazed everyone who saw it in my group!! Alex even taught us how to dance Brazilian Samba before our time on the tour ended and we had to return to our hotel. What a tour!! I'm definitely going to do it again in the future and I recommend anyone interested in true Rio culture to book this tour ASAP-- You won't be disappointed!! Alex and Fabio were MUITO ÓTIMO!! 5-STARS FOR THIS TOUR!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
via Tripadvisor
Great Tour with Alexandre
We had an AMAZING time exploring the favela with Alexandre. He was quite personable, knew many local folks (constantly passing people who stopped to say hi to him); got us access to special spots without big crowds; personally demonstrated world class capoeira, found us excellent coffee, phenomenal views, and tons of insights on culture and history. His English was impeccable. Would HIGHLY recommend him as a guide.
via Tripadvisor
Amazing experience
Our experience in the favela was truly unique. Our guide shared so much with us about its history and what everyday life is like there, and was always happy to answer any questions we had. This is definitely something everyone visiting Rio should experience, as the favelas are an integral part of the city. Seeing it up close completely changed many of the ideas and perceptions we had beforehand. Thank you so much for the fantastic tour! We highly recommend it!
via Tripadvisor
10/10
This was the best thing we did our whole trip in Rio de Janeiro. The tour and also the tourguide was amazing. Its a Realy Nice expierence and verry educational. I would definitly recommend this tour!!!
via Tripadvisor
Once in a Lifetime Experience
This tour of one of the favelas of Rio was one of the most interesting and eye opening excursions I have ever done. Our guide was very knowledgeable about the ins and outs of the area and led us to several different stops. From the top of the favela with its great views of Rio to the black market area where cameras are not allowed, every aspect of the excursion was truly an experience.
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 3 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $71 to $350
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 69
- Verdict
- Exceptional
Why this scores 83
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
The real life behind the word favela: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Rio de Janeiro.
How much does The real life behind the word favela cost?
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Prices start at $71 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Rio de Janeiro usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does The real life behind the word favela take?
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Plan for about 3 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Rio de Janeiro is not rushed.
Is The real life behind the word favela worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 83 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.9/5 across 198 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Rio de Janeiro, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule The real life behind the word favela?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is The real life behind the word favela suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 3-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book The real life behind the word favela?
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Around 69 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Rio de Janeiro can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Rio de Janeiro and add a light layer if any part of the 3-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does The real life behind the word favela start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Rio de Janeiro within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Rio de Janeiro?
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On Outty we rank every Rio de Janeiro experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Pedra da Gávea hike, your best experience in Rio, Favela Tour Rio de Janeiro - Vidigal Walking Tour by Russo Guide, Rio's Full Day: Selarón Steps, Christ & Sugarloaf – Tickets & Lunch Included. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Rio de Janeiro?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Rio de Janeiro?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in The real life behind the word favela?
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Included: Private transportation; Personal guide; and View point. Not included: Souvenir; and Foods. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for The real life behind the word favela?
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São Conrado Metro Station - Exit B, Estr. da Gávea - São Conrado, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 22610-001, Brazil Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is The real life behind the word favela offered in?
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It is offered in Portuguese, English, Italian, French and Spanish. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for The real life behind the word favela?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
What happens to The real life behind the word favela if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about The real life behind the word favela?
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Across 198 reviews averaging 4.9 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, photo opportunities. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
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