Santa Marta Favela Tour

Join us on a brilliant tour of Rio's wonderful Dona Marta favela. You will see the colorful houses that characterize the neighborhood and learn all about their link to Michael Jackson.

Tour Details

We'll meet up at the indicated time in Corumbá Square before heading into the sprawling Dona Marta favela. We will then take a funicular train up to the highest part of the favela.

Then we begin walking through the streets as you hear all about the history of these colorful houses that are home to about 8,000 of the city's residents. Any negative stereotypes that you have of these neighborhoods will disappear as soon as you see some of the many educational projects that have been set up here. We will visit the Dona Marta arts center, and the favela's sports center, and see various street art murals and colorful traditional houses.

We will also stop at the Laje do Michael Jackson, a viewpoint that is home to a brilliant statue of the famous American singer. The reason for this curiosity is because this was the setting for the video of Michael's hit 'They Don't Care About Us'. You will also enjoy a spectacular view across the region's mountains.

We will finish the tour 2 hours later, returning on foot to the original starting point.

How Does It Work?

This 2-hour walking tour includes a ride on the funicular train to access the higher parts of the favela, providing a unique perspective of the surroundings. During the tour, you will visit key educational projects and community centers, giving you insight into the daily life of the residents. The key sites include the Dona Marta arts center, the sports center, and various street art murals. You will also have the opportunity to visit the viewpoint known as Laje do Michael Jackson, where you can take in stunning views of the region. This tour offers a balanced view of the vibrant culture and challenges of favela life, helping to break down stereotypes.

Included

Funicular train rideGuided walking tour

Not Included

Food and drinksTransport to the meeting point

Meeting Point

The tour begins at Corumbá Square. Please arrive on time to ensure a prompt departure.