Looking to go to Rio for the 2016 Summer Olympics? Be sure to explore the outer parts of Rio de Janeiro in Brazil when you’re not experiencing the thrilling games of the Olympics, which take place August 5 through 21 this year. Whether you take a quick day trip to some locations or take an extended weekend trip, here are a few spots to check out.
- Take an Amazon safari: If you’ve ever wanted to come up close and personal with Brazilian wildlife, now’s your chance. Don’t miss a trip from Manaus, which is situated in the center of the rainforest and acts as Brazil’s entry for Amazon safaris. This is where the Solimões and Negro rivers meet, providing you with a stellar view aboard a ferry to navigate the biggest river system in the world. You’ll want to dedicate a few days to this trip, so make sure you aren’t missing any of your favorite sports.
- Witness Christ the Redeemer, Corcovado Mountain: This is understandably the most famous statue of Jesus Christ on the planet; however, it’s only the fifth largest Jesus statue, even at 98 feet and a pedestal of 26 feet. Go early, as the crowds here are big on a normal day – let alone during the Olympics!
- Go shopping in the backstreets of Paraty: Located in Costa Verde between Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo, you must visit this charming town that played a major role in the 18th-century gold trade. The amazingly-preserved architecture is certainly a wonder to behold. Hop on board a schooner cruise to navigate the beautiful bay and the outer islands, then grab a bite to eat at a gourmet restaurant nearby.
- Take a beach day: No visit to Rio de Janeiro is complete unless you spend a day sunning yourself on the white sand beaches. Whether you choose Ipanema Beach, Copacabana Beach or Arpoador Beach, you are sure to have a relaxing time.
- Go for a hike in Chapada Diamantina National Park: The mountains of Bahia to the northeast are where you can immerse yourself in an ecotourism sanctuary. You can go hiking, ziplining, swimming, or river rafting, or spend your day exploring the many forests, caves, underground lakes and waterfalls – all accessible from the town of Capão (note: this location is farther from Rio, so you’ll want to spend a few days here to really enjoy it and not feel rushed).
- Witness wildlife in the Pantanal: Situated in west-central Brazil, you will witness the majesty of lions and tigers, reptiles, exotic birds and more as part of a beautiful combination of wetlands and savannahs. Good news is, the best time to visit is during the dry season, which runs April to October. Should be plenty dry when you visit in August!
A big part of visiting Rio for the Olympics is understanding the local language. You can achieve that with BRIC Language Systems, which connects you with teachers who actually live in Brazil. Learning Portuguese, the most widely spoken language in Brazil, is easier than ever with such a revolutionary style of remote learning direct from those who speak the language in their native land. Get in touch with us today to begin preparing for your visit to Rio de Janeiro
