• Review by Gilles
• 1 day in Rio
• Couple's trip
• Guide: Roberto

How did your day with Véronique go?

We met up with Roberto in front of our hotel at 9 a.m. First, we explored the Santa Teresa neighborhood, then the Pereirão favela, which we reached via an old tram. The favela we visited was set up to welcome visitors, so we got a good sense of how it operated. Roberto knew people who lived there, and we got to chat with them—it was very interesting. We ended up visiting Rio’s historic district and its cathedral. Throughout the day, Roberto showed us all sorts of little details and hidden side streets. We wouldn’t have noticed those things without him.

“We wouldn’t have noticed those things without him.”

During the day, we agreed to spend an evening together. The next evening, we did just that. He took us to a market that’s only open on weekends. We went with a French couple we’d met earlier that day, and we all had dinner together. We had a great evening! The French couple later hired Roberto for a day tour; they were delighted. Roberto introduced us to local culinary specialties; we have fond memories of our dinner at a churrascaria, a typical steakhouse. We really had a great time with him; the only downside was the bad weather.

Rio’s mountain-top favela surrounded by trees and under a blue sky with Roberto

Could you describe Roberto to us?

Roberto is a very warm person who’s easy to connect with. He’s a good listener and is always there for you. I called him back once or twice while we were in Rio for some information, and he replied right away!

“Roberto is a very warm and approachable person”

He knows Brazil and its history very well. He’s been living there for quite a while. He gave us great recommendations, lots of advice, and explanations for the rest of our trip, and it was incredibly helpful.

What advice would you give to future travelers?

It was a great experience. Hiring Roberto was the key to experiencing a more authentic side of the country. I recommend everyone hire Roberto as a guide. You can explore Brazil on your own, but for first-timers, it’s really better to hire local guides—they have so much to offer!