It is a city high on life, a city of beach worship, football, samba and Carnaval.

Rio de Janeiro is an awe-inspiring city of contrasts. Impossibly steep granite mountains jut out of the ocean between glorious stretches of golden sand, impeccable colonial buildings nestle in between modern glass skyscrapers and verdant forests tumble down hillsides into densely populated residential areas. It is a city high on life, a city of beach worship, football, samba and Carnaval. And high above all this fun and frivolity stands Rios ever-present, iconic landmark the statue of Christ the Redeemer.

Rio boasts a wealth of attractions such as the city’s well-known landmarks of Corcovado and Sugar Loaf mountains, activities, great food, music and entertainment, enough to keep a visitor busy for any length of stay.

The beach is not merely a place to absorb the sun’s rays but also an important venue for sports, socialising and even business. It is a people-watchers paradise. Clothing is minimal and bodies are bronzed and beautiful. The famous Copacabana and Ipanema beaches are magnets for Brazilians and tourists alike.

When to travel to Rio de Janeiro

Rio’s best season is undoubtedly the summer months, between December and February, culminating with Carnaval. Temperatures can rise to around 40C or more, which is ideal weather if tourists do as the Brazilians do and visit the beaches rather than rush around.