Plan your visit

Plan your Visit

Prepare for your trip up the hillside. Learn how to reach the meeting point and what clothing is best for the steep stairs.

Favela Santa Marta

Praça Corumbá, Botafogo, Rio de Janeiro

GPS -22.944389, -43.196331

Open directions

Getting there

How to reach the community base.

How	Time	Cost	Notes
Tour: Book a guided tour that includes hotel pickup and drop-off from the South Zone (Copacabana, Ipanema, Leblon).	15-30 minutes from South Zone hotels	Included in tour price ($28-$40)	The safest and most informative way to visit; directly supports the local guides.
Car: Take an Uber or taxi directly to Praça Corumbá at the base of the favela.	10-15 minutes from Copacabana	$3-$6 USD	Convenient and safe for reaching the specific meeting point for your guided tour.
Bus: Take a local bus (e.g., 309) or the Metro to Botafogo station, then walk or take a short taxi to Praça Corumbá.	20-30 minutes from Centro or Copacabana	$1 USD (approx. 5 BRL)	Only recommended if you are comfortable navigating Rio and are meeting a pre-arranged local guide at the base.

When to go

QuietModerateBusyPeak

The community is open year-round. The best months to visit are the drier and slightly cooler months from May to October. This makes the steep climb more comfortable.

What to bring

Lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for Rio's tropical heat and humidity.
Sturdy, closed-toe walking shoes or sneakers with good grip for the steep stairs.
A small daypack or cross-body bag to keep your hands free during the climb.
Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated (bottled water is also available at local shops).
Sunscreen and a hat, as the upper viewpoints are exposed to direct sunlight.
Small denominations of Brazilian Reais (cash) for buying souvenirs, snacks, and tipping.
A smartphone or camera (only take photos when your guide advises it is okay).
Light rain jacket or poncho if visiting during the rainy summer season (Dec-Mar).
Insect repellent, especially useful near the forested edges of Morro Dona Marta.

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The climb involves navigating a 45-degree slope up to 352 meters above sea level.

Wear sturdy, closed-toe walking shoes with good grip.

How the day runs

Sample schedule for your visit.

A typical 2.5-hour guided walking tour covering the main sights.

9:00
Arrive at Praça Corumbá
Meet your local guide at the base square.
9:15
Ride the Funicular
Take the free cable car up the 45-degree slope.
9:45
Upper Viewpoints
See Christ the Redeemer from Mirante do Pedrão.
10:30
Michael Jackson Space
Take photos at the famous bronze statue.
11:15
Favela Painting Project
Walk past the bright houses at Praça Cantão.
11:30
Return to Base
Finish the tour back at Praça Corumbá.

Packing for the climb

Wear lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for Rio's tropical heat. Bring a small daypack to keep your hands free. You will need a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated during the tour.

Sunscreen and a hat are essential because the upper viewpoints lack shade. Bring small denominations of Brazilian Reais to buy snacks and souvenirs from local shops. What to Pack

Easiest way to do it

Aerial view of Favela Santa Marta houses against mountains

Favela Santa Marta Tour

3 h 30 min 4.9 (385)

Visit the residents' association.
The story of the favela told walking through the alleys and alleys
Visit Laje do Michael Jackson and the statue.
drink free

From$34per person

Viator$34 GetYourGuideCompare

Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.

Planning questions

How do I get to Favela Santa Marta?

The safest way is booking a tour with hotel pickup from the South Zone. Alternatively, take an Uber directly to Praça Corumbá. The ride takes 10 to 15 minutes from Copacabana and costs $3 to $6 USD.

What should I wear on a favela tour in Rio?

Wear lightweight, breathable clothing and sturdy, closed-toe walking shoes. Bring a hat, sunscreen, and a small daypack. Avoid wearing flashy jewelry or expensive watches.

Is it safe to visit Favela Santa Marta?

Yes, if you go with an authorized local guide. Do not attempt to wander the favela alone. Stay with your tour group at all times and follow instructions.