A Digital Nomad Guide to Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro Visa

British, American and many European nationals can normally enter Brazil without a visa as a tourist, and may stay for 90 days in total. At this point, they may apply to extend their stay for a further 90 days.

On arrival in Brazil, you’ll need to satisfy the Federal Police (the Brazilian immigration authority) with your intended purpose of visit and – in theory – demonstrate that you’ll have enough money for the duration of your stay, although from personal experience, the latter is rarely required. Nonetheless, it’s wise to always be prepared should you be asked – and you’ll also be asked to provide details of your accommodation or the address you’ll be staying at, so be sure to have this arranged before you fly, even if accommodation is just for a night or two.

Your passport will need to be valid for a minimum period of six months from the date of entry into Brazil.

Culture and Food in Rio de Janeiro

Brazil is a rich and vibrant nation that is well known for its traditional love of football, Carnaval and good food – and as a nation that has brought together the cultures of Indigenous Indians along with the African, Portuguese, Italian and German influences as a result of three centuries of colonisation following its discovery, it offers an interesting mix of Brazil acquired its main language, religion and many of its customs from the Portuguese, but depending on where you are in the country, you’ll see some other dominant influences at play. In the east, where many families are of Italian descent, Italian cuisine has infiltrated the menus of many restaurants, as well as the cookbooks of many families cooking up mouth-watering dishes at home. From lasagne to cappelletti, think of the kind of hearty, comforting cuisine we all love.

In the south, which enjoys a cooler climate in the winter months, German influences are notable (strudel, anyone?), while in the north east, African customs are evident in many things – from traditional dress, to cooking (rice and beans; popular Bahian dish acaraje – crispy bean and onion cakes stuffed with a flavourful  mix of shrimp, crab, nuts and coconut milk known as vatapá), popular music and dance. Commercial and cultural imports from Europe and north America have, at times, competed with and influenced Brazil’s own cultural output, which has led some to argue that the country’s own cultural identity is being watered down – but in a nation that is already such a vibrant mix of influences, some might say that this is all part of its unique appeal.

Brazil is a religious country where around two thirds of the population are Roman Catholics. Catholicism was introduced largely by the Portuguese Jesuits who arrived in 1549 with the mission of converting indigenous people, but this was further cemented with the subsequent Italian colonisation later on.

With this in mind, it’s worth noting that the spectacular annual Carnaval for which Brazil is internationally known for  is more than just a big party, and has a religious significance, too. Held 46 days before Easter each year, it’s believed to have derived from the pagan festival of Saturnalia – which, when adapted to Christianity, became recognised as a way to say farewell to the bad, practice repentance and prepare for Christ’s death and resurrection. One of the most internationally recognised elements of Brazilian culture is its music. Samba is perhaps the most obvious of genres this relates to, but let’s not forget the chic and sophisticated Bossa Nova, the emotional Choro and dancers’ favourite Forró – the latter two of which are derived from European Folk genres between the 19th and 20th centuries. All of these kinds of music go back a long way, but are ever-present in Rio de Janeiro and wider Brazil until today – so you’ll have little trouble finding something to suit your taste, whatever it happens to be.

Rio de Janeiro Nightlife

Rio is known for its rich nightlife, but upon arrival in the city, it can be difficult to figure out how and where to find it. While the samba bars of Lapa are a mainstay and should undoubtedly be one of your first ports of call if you’re looking for a vibrant and authentic experience, those seeking out a more hedonistic party scene will need to keep their ears to the ground. Many of the city’s best nights out can be found by tracking down one-off pop-up festivals and events, with the neighbourhoods of Santa Teresa and Cosme Velho often playing host to some of the most exclusive. In Rio, it’s not always what you know, but who you know – so don’t be afraid to chat to the locals, make new friends and get the skinny on all the best places to see and be seen.

Rio Scenarium, Centro

It would almost be rude not to seek out a live samba show while in Rio, and the stylish Rio Scenarium is the place to see one of the best. Its walls lined with shelves upon shelves of unique antiques, it has become as popular amongst tourists as it is with locals over the years – but it has managed to retain all of its original authenticity nonetheless. With samba legends past and present taking to the stage at the weekends and a string of renowned DJs behind the decks in a second room for those seeking out a more international vibe, if you have only one night out in Rio, then make it here.

Website: rioscenarium.com.br

Circo Voador, Jardim Iracema

This iconic music venue is something truly special indeed, and regularly plays host to international underground bands from around the world. Whatever your musical preference, this place is certain to have something lined up that will tick all the right boxes – from 50-strong samba band Monobloco to 80s cheese band Ploc, both from Brazil – and an equally eclectic array of acts from further afield, too.

Website: circovoador.com.br

Things to do in Rio de Janeiro

If there is one thing there is no shortage of in Rio, it’s things to do. There’s a reason this vibrant and exciting city has won itself a reputation as one of the biggest bucket list destinations in the world, and from its spectacular beaches and local landmarks to its string of museums and thriving foodie and adventure scenes, you certainly won’t get bored here. These are some of the best things you’ll want to tick off your list while living in Rio – with something to suit all tastes.

• Go to ‘Carnaval’

  If you manage to time your stay in Rio right, then it might just coincide with ‘Carnaval’ – a huge and iconic annual festival that takes place in February, just before lent, and that is considered the biggest carnival in the world. With more than two million people per day taking to the streets to watch the city’s biggest and best samba schools battle it out to be crowned winners of this world famous competition, the colourful floats, bold costumes and awe-inspiring dance routines are an unforgettable experience that has made Carnaval a huge bucket list must for travellers and digital nomads from all over the world.

• Head to Rio’s iconic beaches

  Perhaps we’re stating the obvious here, but one simply cannot spend time in Rio without visiting its beautiful beaches, which sit at the heart of the city’s action and punctuate some of its most appealing neighbourhoods. From Copacabana and Ipanema to Leblon, each of these sandy stretches offers up an authentic serving of Brazilian life, with scantily clad locals playing football and volleyball on the sand, and kiosks serving up fresh coconuts, ice cold beer and salgadinho snacks throughout the day. Head to Copacabana to indulge in a spot of people watching, mosey along to Ipanema to learn to surf, or beat the crowds at Leblon, where you can kick back and relax with a good book. Heat can feel oppressive in the city during Brazil’s summer months, so you’ll no doubt appreciate the opportunity to cool off in the sea after a hard day’s work. And, with each of the city’s beaches offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and local landmarks – from SugarLoaf to Christ the Redeemer – being on the beach in Rio is an experience you won’t want to miss.

• Take the cable car to SugarLoaf Mountain

  One of the most iconic sights in all of Rio, the Pão de Açúcar – otherwise known as Sugar Loaf Mountain – is another that you’ll want to have at the top of your list. Accessed via cable car, this towering rock can get very busy with tourists during the summer months, so if you’re planning on visiting it at this time of year then be sure to arrive as early as possible. This impressive peak rises 396 metres above the ocean below, and offers spectacular bird’s eye views over the city below. If you’re coming, then don’t forget your camera, because it makes for an awe-inspiring sight you’ll want to capture forever.

• Visit the Botanical Gardens

  Rio’s leafy Jardim Botanico offers a welcome break from the throng of the beachfront and more central areas of the city, and is the perfect place to while away an afternoon wandering its shady paths and taking in a breath-taking array of flora and fauna. As well as a plethora of colourful, tropical birds flying through the trees, you can spot monkeys chattering overhead, too. The perfect place for a quiet stroll, or to relax and soak up the peaceful atmosphere with a good book.

• See Christ the Redeemer

  It’s almost impossible not to catch the occasional glimpse of this towering statue whilst walking around Rio, but there is nothing quite like seeing it in all its glory. This 98-feet tall figurine – created in collaboration by French sculptor Paul Landowskiand Brazilian engineer Heitor da Silva Costa, sits atop Mount Corcovado and is accessible via a scenic tram ride from Cosme Velho. Another spot that is popular with tourists, arrive at opening time to get the best photos. Once again offering incredible panoramas of the city below, it’s an experience you won’t want to miss out on while in Rio.

• Go behind the scenes at Mangueira’s Palácio do Samba

  One of Rio’s oldest samba schools, the Palácio do Samba holds an impressive 19 parade prizes from over the years, and with good reason. Visit late in the year to get a sneak peak of preparations for Carnaval, or secure your seat for one of the regular evening performances that take place year round. If you’re keen to get the complete inside scoop, then opt to book yourself onto a behind-the-scenes tour of the school’s practice halls and workshops, where you’ll see dance routines and parade floats beginning to take shape.

• Explore Santa Teresa

  Take the tram to Santa Teresa and immerse yourself in this authentic slice of Rio life. Here, winding, cobbled streets are lined with charming, family-run eateries and quaint boutique B&Bs, with shops selling handmade wares that make for the perfect souvenirs and gifts. Quite unlike anywhere else in the city, this hillside neighbourhood is the perfect place to while away an afternoon wandering the streets, chatting to locals and sampling some of the most authentic and traditional Brazilian fare you’ll find in the city.

• Cool of in the Museum of Tomorrow

  When all that sunshine gets too much, you might find yourself looking for an air-conditioned indoor activity or two, and the Museum of Tomorrow has to be one of the coolest in both senses. One of the most successful legacies of the 2016 Olympics, when Brazil played host to this prestigious global event, it’s a science museum set in a neo-futurist style building that dives deep into geology, smart cities, and everything in between. Ultimately, it’s a look at what the future could hold for mankind, with an emphasis on sustainability and eco-powered by solar panels.

• Immerse yourself in musical heritage at Pedra do Sal

  If you fancy immersing yourself in Rio’s vibrant musical heritage, head to Pedra do Sal. Heralded as the original birthplace of samba, here you can soak up live music set against a backdrop of colourful street art – and all washed down with a cheap caipirinha or two from one of the many stalls that line the pavements. Come down on a Monday or a Friday for a free street party and enjoy a fun and frenetic carnival vibe.

Best Time to Visit Rio de Janeiro

A hot and sticky tropical city, humidity in Rio is high all year round. Summer, which runs from December to March, sees the highest temperatures, but also the most rain – and when it’s nearing 40 degrees celsius, the downpours offer a welcome break from the often oppressive heat.

June to September, is for many, a more pleasant time to visit. Skies are blue and clear, sunshine is plentiful, and the temperature sits somewhere around the 25 degree mark. From September to December, things cool down further and the rain slowly but surely begins to creep in. Temperatures can drop as low as 20 degrees as cold fronts sweep up from the Antarctic, so you might want to wear a light jacket in the evenings.

Despite the heat, Rio can be quite a cloudy city, which can make sightseeing frustrating. If you’re looking to get clear photos of iconic monuments and landmarks like Sugar Loaf Mountain and Christ the Redeemer then early morning from June to September is your best bet.

Rio de Janeiro for Families

If you’re planning on travelling to Brazil with children, then rest assured that they will be made to feel welcome in Rio. Brazil is a very family-centric country, with many children continuing to live at home well into their twenties and until they get married, so it’s safe to say that they understand the unbreakable bond between parent and child as well as anyone.

Professional and wealthy Brazilians, who commonly have housemaids to clean and care for their homes, also often have nannies (known as babás) for their children, but given the excellent exchange rate from the British Pound, European Euro and American Dollar into Brazilian Reais, you certainly don’t need to be wealthy to take advantage of such services when visiting if you’re busy with projects, meetings and deadlines at points. A full time nanny’s salary is around $415 per month.

International Schools

There are a variety of quality international schools catering to all ages to choose from in Rio, so if you’re planning on staying longer term then you might consider enrolling children for the duration. These are some of the best:

American International School (Escola  Americana do Rio de Janeiro)

With a new and impressive unit located in Barra, this school caters to all ages and is the only one in Rio that is officially classified as being ‘international’.

Adapted American curriculum/ Exame Nacional do Ensino Médio (ENEM)/ American High School Diploma/ IB Diploma; ages 3-18.

British School, Rio de Janeiro

Spread across three separate campuses, nursery age children can attend the botafogo unit, which also caters to children up to the age of 11. The Urca campus, at the foot of the Sugar Loaf Mountain, caters to ages 11-18 and teaches the IPC, NCFE, IGCSE and IB Diploma Programme. The third campus, in Barra da Tijuca, accommodates all ages and offers the same programmes as the others.

International Primary Curriculum/ adapted National Curriculum for England/ IGCSE/ IB Diploma/ Brazilian curriculum; ages 2-18

Living in Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro Transportation

Like most cities, Rio is best explored on foot – as this is always one of the best ways to get a feel for it, catch your bearings and see things that you would otherwise miss. Thankfully, much of the city’s most note-worthy neighbourhoods are located around the beachfront and so are easily walkable, although if you’re heading from one end to the other in the daytime heat, then it can sometimes feel a bit much.

Shuttle Buses

Thankfully, there are regular air-conditioned shuttle buses running up and down the Copacabana, Ipanema and Leblon strip – simply flag one down, and let the driver know where you’d like to get off. It’s a fairly straightforward route, since it goes only up along the beachfront and back down again on the opposite side of the road, so there is little chance to get lost. Expect to pay less than $1 for a one way trip.

Taxi

If you’re planning on heading further afield, perhaps to the likes of Lapa or Santa Teresa, you might want to take a taxi – although again, these are still reachable on foot for those who prefer to take the scenic route. However, if you need to get to Santos Santos Dumont – the city’s airport for domestic flights – or take an international flight from Rio de Janeiro International Airport – then you’ll certainly want to prebook a taxi. This way, you can avoid venturing into any of the unsafe favelas – where many bus routes will take you – and arrive at your destination as promptly as the heavy Rio traffic will allow. Starting price is around $1.20, with an additional $0.60 charged per kilometre.

The Metro

Rio’s metro system is relatively efficient, and consists of five stations operating on a single line. Serving 41 stations spanning 58 kilometres, it will take you to most of the main neighbourhoods of the city – but can get busy, crowded and extremely hot. For this reason, many of the locals prefer to walk – but it’s an option if you’re in a hurry or have yet to get your bearings enough to find your own way around. A monthly pass, at under $40, will save you money in the long run.

Fitness and Health

From hiking to cycling, swimming to surfing, there are few better backdrops against which to enjoy your favourite outdoor fitness pursuits than Rio de Janeiro – and with its often hot and sticky climate, you’ll certainly work up a sweat. Sports and exercise are a fundamental part of the Carioca culture, and you’ll see locals running, cycling and rollerblading along the beachside promenade on the daily. Add to that the regular impromptu games of beach volleyball and football you’ll see taking place each week, and opportunities to meet and mix with the locals abound – but if the thought of working out in such warm temperatures doesn’t exactly fill you with enthusiasm then you’ll be glad to know that Rio is home to plenty of quality gyms and fitness centres, too. Here are some of the best:

Bodytech, Copacabana

Built around the concept of lifestyle and wellness, this trendy and modern fitness centre is fully-equipped with all of the latest equipment and offers members a packed timetable of fitness classes, too – including yoga, pilates, circuit training, Muay Thai and jiu-jitsu.

Website: https://www.bodytech.com.br

Smart Fit, Copacabana

One of the cheapest gyms in Brazil – which is great news for digital nomads on a budget – Smart Fit is still fully-equipped with a selection of modern equipment, and there are always well-qualified professional fitness instructors on hand to provide advice. In Copacabana alone, there are four branches to choose from, with a further 256 scattered across Brazil.

Website: https://www.smartfit.com.br

Open-air gyms

Wander the promenade stretching from Copacabana to Leblon and you’ll spot several open air gyms along the beachfront. Cariocas adore working out in front of the ocean, and while the equipment is a far cry from the high-tech offerings you’d get at a professional gym, it’s certainly enough to work up a sweat. You’ll find cross-trainers, pull up bars, sit-up benches and more. At the far end of Copacabana, at Praia dos Diabos, you’ll even find a selection of free weights, making for a novel outdoor fitness experience you have to try out at least once.

Rio de Janeiro People

The second largest city in Brazil, Rio is officially home to a population of 7 million, but when you include the metropolitan area, this could in fact stand much higher. 

People from Rio are known as ‘Cariocas’, and speak with a distinctive accent that makes them instantly recognisable from Brazilians from elsewhere in the country. Of course, not everyone who lives in Rio is a native Carioca, with many people from across the country opting to relocate here in search of a better life. Sadly, this isn’t always the case, and those who can’t afford the city’s prices may end up living in its favelas – the sprawling hillside shanty towns that Rio has become notorious for.

Cariocas tend to be extremely friendly, and are almost always happy to cross paths with gringos. At the very least, it’s a chance to practice their English skills – but you can expect a warm reception and an invitation into the family home for lunch if you make a particularly good impression, and some sound advice about the best local bars and restaurants should you only manage a quick chat.

Like most Brazilians, Cariocas love to socialise over food and ice cold beer and are often extraverted characters who will certainly make an impression. They invariably enjoy a slice of the good life, working to live as opposed to living to work, and tend to be very proud of their city – although many continue to feel disillusioned by the ongoing political landscape in Brazil, which has been marred by corruption and scandal for some decades.

Nonetheless, many Cariocas dislike the common stereotypes with which they are associated, and although it’s true that many adore Carnaval, football and spending time at the beach, this is not always the case – and when it is, there is much more to them than those things alone. Take the time to get to know them, and you will likely make some great friends for life – don’t be surprised if you’re going back to visit them in years to come, as their friendly and communicative nature often makes keeping in touch a cinch,

As a digital nomad or expat, you’ll be made to feel welcome. Note that most Brazilians will assume you’re American unless you tell them otherwise – but they’ll be equally glad to meet you nonetheless.

Rio de Janeiro Insurance and Medical Care

Anyone travelling to Brazil is advised to take out comprehensive travel insurance, to include medical costs. Public health services in Rio tend to be poor – although the major city hospitals are home to some of the best trauma teams in Latin America – so you’ll want to make sure you’ll have access to private healthcare during your stay should you need it.

Private healthcare in Rio is thankfully very good – in fact, you can expect the level of care you receive to be the equivalent of the standard you’d receive across North America and much of Europe. Many medical staff speak English, too.

Many doctors and clinics have arrangements with some of the best-known international medical insurance providers, which enables payments to be made directly and can save any unnecessary headache.

If you’re thinking more along the lines of elective surgery than emergency medical care, then Rio has become a hotspot for those in search of affordable cosmetic surgery, attractive people from across the globe who are looking for a quick nip or tuck. This, of course, will not be covered by any kind of medical insurance and is entirely at personal cost!

Make sure you are fully covered by reading our full Digital Nomad Travel Insurance guide.

Jobs in Rio de Janeiro

Rio enjoys a diverse culture spanning finance, manufacturing and tourism amongst its developing sectors. Rio benefits from a huge amount of natural resources – from granite to coffee, wood to tropical fruits – which continues to create a huge number of jobs, and with Brazil’s population now nearing 220 million, there is plenty of scope for scalable businesses.

If you’re considering seeking out a job while in Rio then it’s important to make sure you are both eligible and legally allowed to do so. In order to work legally, you’ll need both a residence permit and a work visa, so the standard 90 day tourist visa won’t suffice. In most cases, you’ll need to secure a job offer before you can apply for the work visa, but must not yet have commenced working. Your prospective employer will be able to start the process with the Ministry of Labour.

Mining, oil and gas are large industries in Rio and so engineering jobs are often available. Qualified education professionals are also highly sought-after, including English teachers, who can work at one of the many language schools in the city – while corporate jobs in the finance sector may also be secured with one of the many multinational companies that have a presence in Rio.

If you’re looking for something a little more short term, then try hostels, hotels and bed and breakfasts – but be aware that wages in these areas tend to be low.

Check out our Digital Nomads Jobs Postings to find the best jobs available for Digital Nomads.