Explore Little Africa : Unveiling Afro Heritage in Rio de Janeiro
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
We're a specialized incoming travel operator in Rio de Janeiro, offering the most immersive Afrotourism experiences that bring to light key sites of Black history, a legacy once erased and silenced.
Our tours provide a decolonial narrative, visiting essential places like Valongo Wharf, a UNESCO World Heritage Menu publisher-the largest slave port in the Americas, and Pedra do Sal, the birthplace of Samba. From this point, the Black community reshaped their identity, profoundly influencing Brazil's national culture and values.
What you'll experience?
Afro-Brazilian Heritage | Afro-Brazilian Art | Afro Cuisine | Black Heritage Sites | Black Cultural Icons
Little Africa is part of UNESCO's Global African Diaspora Project.
Why choose us?
- Black owned company
- Trusted partner for Embratur and Black Travel Summit
- Specialists in international Black events
- Small groups for meaningful connections
Ideal for travelers seeking authentic Afro-Brazilian culture.
Don’t wait - book your tour today!
Available options
Meet us at Little Africa Tour
Duration: 3 hours: The tour takes 3h30 minutes approximately.<br/>Muhcab; Saltstone; Valongo: (The New Black Institute is closed on Sundays)<br/>VLT Modal Transport: Includes local transport during the walking tour.
Does not include transport to the meeting point.<br/>Ticket: Entrance ticket for The New Black Institute
Meet us + Afro Food Exp
Set Menu: A set menu will be available and drinks are not included.<br/>On Sundays: On this day the New Black Institutte is not open/included.
Little Africa + Roundtrip ride
Duration: 4 hours<br/>Pick up on South Zone & Barra: Please share your hotel address with us via WhatsApp at +55 21 97949 - 5085.
Please note that the New Black Institute is closed<br/>Car or Van: The driver will pick you up at your hotel, take you to meet the tour guide, and bring you back afterward.
Little Africa + One-Way Ride
Duration: 4 hours<br/>Pick up on South Zone: WhatsApp Number + 55 21 97949 - 5085 - Please inform your hotel address. (The New Black Institute is closed on Sundays)<br/>Car ou Van: The driver will pick you up at your hotel, take you to the tour guide, and bring you back afterward.<br/>Ticket: Includes the ticket for The New Black Institute
Iconic River + Little Africa
Duration: 8 hours<br/>Afro Food Experience: Includes a lunch ina Afro-Brazilian restaurant. Does not include drinks.<br/>Rio Creative Full Experience: - Christ The Redeemer + Lapa Steps + Afro brazilian Lunch + Little Africa spots (The New Black Institute is closed on Sundays)<br/>Sedan Car / Spin / Van / Bus
What's included
All Fees and Taxes
Ticket for The New Black Institute.
Detailed itinerary
1
External visit with cultural and heritage-based content about the historical Menu publisher.
Decolonial narrative.
2
External visit to this archaeological Menu publisher.
The Institute for Research and Memory of the Pretos Novos is a Brazilian institution located in the city of Rio de Janeiro.
3
Territory Museum focused on Afro-Brazilian history and culture in the Gamboa region.
4
The Valongo Wharf is a former wharf located in Rio de Janeiro’s port district, between the present-day Coelho and Castro and Sacadura Cabral streets.
5
External visit. Pedra do Sal is a historical and religious landmark located in the Saúde neighborhood, near Largo da Prainha.
6
External visit to the square, formerly a symbolic territory of Little Africa marked by Black presence and the zungus, and today considered one of the coolest places by Time Out.
What's not included
Lunch
Tips
Available languages
Guide guide
PT
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.9
15 reviews
5★
14
4★
0
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
77 reviews
5★
77
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Not recommended for disable people.
Meeting point
In front of Santa Rita Church. Our guides will wait for you for up to 20 minutes. They will be wearing our royal blue t-shirt. If you are running late, contact us immediately via WhatsApp : + 55 21 97949 - 5085. If transport is included in your package, please provide your hotel address after booking.
About Rio de Janeiro
Rio de Janeiro, known as the 'Marvelous City,' is famous for its natural settings, Carnival, samba, bossa nova, and Balneario beaches such as Copacabana and Ipanema. It's a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, including the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue and Sugarloaf Mountain.
Top Attractions
Christ the Redeemer
One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, this iconic statue offers breathtaking views of Rio de Janeiro.
Historical/Religious
2-3 hours
R$84 (including train ticket)
Sugarloaf Mountain
A famous peak offering stunning views of Rio de Janeiro and its beaches.
Nature
2-3 hours
R$88 (round-trip cable car)
Copacabana Beach
One of the most famous beaches in the world, known for its vibrant atmosphere and beautiful sunsets.
Beach
Half day or full day
Free
Tijuca National Park
The world's largest urban forest, offering hiking trails, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.
Nature
Half day or full day
Free (some attractions may have fees)
Santa Teresa
A historic and bohemian neighborhood known for its cobblestone streets, art galleries, and scenic views.
Cultural
Half day
Free to explore
Must-Try Local Dishes
Feijoada
A hearty stew made with black beans and various cuts of pork, often served with rice, collard greens, and orange slices.
Dinner
Contains pork, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Pão de Queijo
Cheese bread made with tapioca flour, giving it a unique texture and flavor.
Snack
Vegetarian, but contains dairy.
Moqueca
A traditional fish stew cooked in coconut milk and dendê oil, with various seafood and vegetables.
Dinner
Can be made vegetarian or vegan with vegetable broth and tofu.
Açaí
A thick, creamy fruit pulp from the açaí palm, often served with granola and condensed milk.
Dessert/Drink
Can be made vegan with plant-based milk.
Popular Activities
Hiking in Tijuca National Park
Surfing in Arpoador
Paragliding in Pedra Bonita
Beach lounging in Ipanema
Spa treatments in Copacabana
Yoga in Botafogo
Visiting museums in Centro
Attending a samba show
Best Time to Visit
December to March
This is the peak tourist season with warm weather and the famous Carnival in February/March. Expect crowded beaches and higher prices.
25-30°C
77-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Portuguese
- Widely spoken: English (limited)
- English: Limited
Currency
Brazilian Real (BRL)
Time Zone
GMT-3 (Brasília Time)
Electricity
110V/220VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
Rio de Janeiro is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and violence can occur. Exercise caution, especially in less touristy areas and at night.
Important Precautions:
- • Avoid walking alone at night in unsafe areas
- • Use common sense and stay alert to your surroundings
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
Getting there
By air
- Rio de Janeiro-Galeão International Airport • 20 km (12 miles) from city center
- Santos Dumont Airport • 12 km (7.5 miles) from city center
By train
Central do Brasil
By bus
Rodoviária Novo Rio, Terminal Rodoviário da Gavea
Getting around
Public transport
Efficient and air-conditioned, the metro is a great way to avoid traffic.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, 99 Taxis
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Copacabana
Ipanema
Santa Teresa
Lapa
Botafogo
Day trips
Petrópolis
65 km (40 miles) • Full day
A charming colonial town in the mountains, known for its historic architecture and cool climate.
Paraty
170 km (105 miles) • Full day or overnight
A historic coastal town with cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and beautiful beaches.
Búzios
170 km (105 miles) • Full day or overnight
A picturesque beach town known for its stunning beaches, clear waters, and vibrant nightlife.
Festivals
Carnival • February/March (dates vary)
Rio Carnival Samba Parade • February/March (dates vary)
New Year's Eve (Réveillon) • December 31
Pro tips
- Visit Christ the Redeemer early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the best views
- Take a helicopter tour for a unique perspective of the city
- Explore the less touristy neighborhoods like Santa Teresa and Botafogo for a more authentic experience
- Try local street food like pão de queijo and coxinha for a taste of Brazilian flavors
- Learn some basic Portuguese phrases to enhance your interactions with locals
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
