Tours/Rio de Janeiro/10-hour Private Tour Rio In One Day: Christ, Sugarloaf, Selarón, Downtown
Viator · Private tour

10-hour Private Tour Rio In One Day: Christ, Sugarloaf, Selarón, Downtown

5.0(113)Rio de Janeiro1 hour
VIATOR5.0(7)TRIPADVISOR5.0(106)

Description

Discover Rio's most important touristic attractions on a private tour in the company of an expert guide. Visit Corcovado hill, where the iconic statue of Christ the Redeemer is located, considered to be one of the seven wonders of the modern world. Drive along beachfront area to admire the most famous beaches like Ipanema, Copacabana, and Leblon. Head to the foot of Sugarloaf Mountain and catch the cable car to the breathtaking summit of it. Pass by Maracana stadium, one of the most important in the whole world. Visit to the Sambadrome, samba venue where the famous Rio Carnival parade is held. Enter the Cathedral of Saint Sebastian, one of Rio’s numerous iconic symbols. Following this, head to the center of Rio to get a taste of the local culture, climbing the Sélaron Steps and passing the Lapa Arches. The itinerary can be totally customizable according to your personal preferences to create the best Rio’s experience. At the end of the tour, you’re dropped off at the hotel.

Tour Options

PICKUP AT ANY HOTEL IN RIO
  • Pickup included
PICKUP AT RIO PORT (PIER MAUÁ)
  • CRUISE SHIP INFORMATION : Provide cruise ship name and the estimate time you will be out at the arrivals area ready for pickup. Also cel phone number. Pickup included
PICKUP AT RIO AIRPORTS
  • FLIGHT INFORMATION : • Provide airline and flight number, drop-off location and contact telephone number. Pickup included
Monday Special Deal
  • Hotel/Airport/Port pickups:8am: Enjoy the exact same private tour experience at a special Monday reduced rate. Available only on Mondays at 8:00am. Pickup included

Itinerary

Pass by

You'll be met at your hotel by your private guide and head to the base of Corcovado Mountain by car, passing by Rio's beaches and the Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon on the way.

Admission not included40 min

Reaching the Cosme Velho district, you'll take a unique Swiss cogwheel train that climbs the mountain from its base to nearly the summit. The very top is reached by climbing a flight of stairs to arrive at the iconic Christ the Redeemer Statue. The view, from this vantage point, with the surrounding Tijuca National Forest spreading below and a circle of mountains closing the horizon at the very back of the Guanabara bay is truly spectacular. After some time to walk around and take photos, we make the way back down.

30 min

We then head towards to the bohemian Santa Teresa neighborhood, home to a collection of local boutiques and galleries. The charming area of Santa Teresa also features many trendy bars and restaurants offering several options of snacks and dishes, not to mention its breathtaking views. Don’t miss out on it!

30 min

From Santa Teresa to Lapa, there is the famous Selaron steps, a stairway decorated with colorful tiles. Known for its energetic bohemian vibe, “Lapa” is the most buzzing area in town day and nighttime.

Pass by

Have you ever heard of the Lapa neighborhood? If not, it should! It's very easy to know that you've arrived in Lapa. There is a famous monument that is the official image of Lapa, the large white arches aqueduct postcard of Rio.

20 min

Walk through Rio’s downtown through some of the coolest touristic areas catching sights and culture until Mauá square. The walk passes by historic attractions, lots of bars and restaurants, arriving at Mauá square where all tribes and people get together.

10 min

See a different side of Rio in its up-and-coming Porto Maravilha area symbol of the renewed Rio after the Olympics.

10 min

Mural painted by Eduardo Kobra listed by the Guinness Book of Records as the largest graffiti in the world.

Admission not included10 min

Admire the gorgeous cutting-edge museum structure, designed by famous architect Santiago Calatrava.

15 min

The Metropolitan Cathedral of Rio de Janeiro stands out among the buildings in the Center of the city. Its unique architecture catches the attention of everyone passing by and surprises those who visit it! Its appearance and history are unconventional and make it one of the most curious spots in the wonderful city!

Pass by

The Sambodrome is the home to the Rio Carnival, where the parades take place during three nights every year, a concrete structure built specifically for the Carnival. It's an avenue with bleachers on both sides divided into sectors.

Pass by

Beautiful building and preserved architecture. It's one of the most important Brazilian theaters.

Admission not included10 min

The most important Brazilian football temple. Scenery of important Brazilian football classic and facts, like hosting the final matches for the 1950 and 2014 football World Cup and the Olympics final football match in 2014.

Pass by

Beach that inspired the composition of the famous song "Ipanema Girl”. Beautiful beach that deserves all the fame and admiration.

Admission not included60 min

We will then go up the Sugarloaf Mountain. A series of two cable cars will take you to the top of Sugar Loaf. At the top, again some of the most breathtaking views of Rio, this time from a different vantage point than at Corcovado. After that, tourists may want to enjoy lunch at a very nice “all-you-can-eat buffet” steakhouse restaurant (not included).

Pass by

Pass by Copacabana beach that was inspiration of songs and poetry, and one of the most famous postcards in Brazil. Copacabana is also stage of one of the biggest New Year's Eve in the world, the neighborhood of Rio de Janeiro has a lot of history, cultural life and bohemia.

Highlights

Professional licensed private tour guide.
VAT, all taxes, handling charges, parking fees during stops, airport / port Greet & Meet services.
Hotel, airport or port pick-up and drop-off. (Within Rio de Janeiro City)
Transport by fully-equipped vehicle.
Private driver for groups bigger 4 people, otherwise the guide drives the vehicle themselves.

What's included

Included
Professional licensed private tour guide.
VAT, all taxes, handling charges, parking fees during stops, airport / port Greet & Meet services.
Hotel, airport or port pick-up and drop-off. (Within Rio de Janeiro City)
Transport by fully-equipped vehicle.
Private driver for groups bigger 4 people, otherwise the guide drives the vehicle themselves.
Not included
Entrance fees.
Meals and drinks.
Tips. (optional)

Pickup Locations & Times

PICK-UP INFORMATION: • Wherever place you specify at the time of the booking. As it’s a private tour, you choose the best pick-up point that suits your needs as long as it's within the city of Rio de Janeiro limits. • We DO NOT do pick-ups in the countryside or too far from the city of Rio de Janeiro. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - DROP-OFF INSTRUCTIONS: • Wherever place you specify at the time of the booking. As it’s a private tour, you choose the best drop-off point that suits your needs as long as it's within the city of Rio de Janeiro limits. • We DO NOT do drop-offs in the countryside or too far from the city of Rio. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - AIRPORT / PORT ARRIVAL INSTRUCTIONS: • Once you have arrived at the airport or seaport there will be a member of our staff waiting for you at the arrivals area holding a clear sign with your name on it, they will then escort you to your waiting private vehicle. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - HOTEL PICK-UP INSTRUCTIONS: • As soon as the tour guide arrives at your hotel, they get the front desk to call you in the room in case you are not at the lobby.

Traveller Ratings

5.0
113 reviews
5
110
4
3
3
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2
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Important Information

  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Reviews(113)

B
betty_K
March 24, 2026
Christ the redeemer, sugarloaf mountain

Private touring the only way to go, with a guide who knows how to adjust to your request. Edwardo was the best. Be prepared for a good education.

Operator response

Thank you for your wonderful feedback! 😊 We’re so happy to hear that you enjoyed the private tour and that Eduardo was able to provide such an insightful experience. We’ll be sure to pass along your kind words to him. We hope to see you again on your next adventure in Rio! 🌟

O
Olivier_S
February 15, 2026
Thanks Marcio!! Best guide experience

We came to Rio for Carnival 2026 — just me and my 19-year-old son — and having Marcio Briggs from Greg Tour with us made the whole trip something we’ll never forget. Rio during Carnival is intense, wild, beautiful, a little crazy… and Marcio just made it all feel easy. He didn’t feel like a “guide.” He felt like a friend who happens to know absolutely everything about the city. The history, the culture, the real-life stories, the things locals think but don’t say out loud — he shared all of it in a way that was fun and natural. And somehow… everywhere we went, doors opened. We were welcomed with smiles. Things flowed. It just worked. He knows people, and people clearly like him. As a dad traveling with my son, what meant the most was how safe and comfortable we felt the entire time. Marcio was calm, attentive, always one step ahead without ever making it feel controlled or rigid. He just took care of us. He read the vibe perfectly — when to explain, when to move, when to let us just stand there and take in the magic of Rio. This trip gave my son and me memories we’ll talk about for the rest of our lives. And Marcio is a huge reason why. Thank you, Marcio — for your kindness, your care, your energy, and your big heart. Rio is special… but you made it unforgettable.

Operator response

Thank you so much for the wonderful feedback! 😊 We are thrilled that Márcio made the experience even more special for you and your son. 🌟 He is one of our most dedicated guides, and it’s great to hear that you felt comfortable and welcomed throughout the tour. We are so grateful to have contributed to these incredible memories in Rio! We hope to welcome you again soon for more unforgettable moments.

C
carol_w
February 3, 2026
Great day in Rio de Janeiro

Vitor was an amazing guide who took us around the sights and giving really good information. His knowledge was so great. I would thoroughly recommend him and the tour.

Operator response

Thank you so much for your kind words! 🌟 We're thrilled to hear that you enjoyed the tour and had such a positive experience with our guide. 😊 We're dedicated to making every tour memorable, and we truly appreciate your recommendation! We hope to see you again soon! 🚗💖

E
Ekaterina L
December 26, 2025
An Unforgettable 10-Hour Private Tour of Rio

This 10-hour private tour of Rio was absolutely incredible and it was all thanks to the amazing guide Camila. She is exceptionally knowledgeable, full of enthusiasm, and truly passionate about her city. Her energy was contagious and she genuinely made me fall in love with Rio. The entire day was perfectly organized and timed. Every stop was carefully planned so we could enjoy the sights without heavy crowds, which made the experience even more enjoyable and relaxed. We have covered most of the sights and I have been treated to real gastronomical delights too! The car was comfortable and the driver very polite and helpful, making the long day feel effortless. I couldn’t have asked for a better way to explore Rio. This tour exceeded all expectations, and I would wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone visiting the city. A truly five-star experience!

T
travaller60
December 25, 2025
Excellent and highly recommend

My daughter and I spent 5 days in Rio de Janeiro, which we loved Our travel Agent had organised a 10 hour private tour via Rio Caroca Tour Ltd. We were picked up and dropped off from our hotel on Copacabana beach. The driver (sorry cannot remember her name) was brilliant. A fantastic driver knew the areas and we both felt very comfortable with her driving skills. A lovely lady and very friendly. Our tour guide (Camila) was also brilliant, seemed to have a good rapport with tour site, vendors and was very knowledgeable is Rio’s past and present. The day was beautiful which made it extra special. We explored both tourist spots and local areas, which we believe shows the real Rio de Janeiro. We visited so many places including Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf Mountain, Copacabana Beach, Santa Teresa, the Cathedral of Saint Sebastia, Boulevard Olimpico and Selaron Steps We highly recommend to tour

J
Jennifer_L
November 20, 2025
This was a great overview...

This was a great overview of the city. Our tour guide helped us navigate lines and had a thorough knowledge of the city’s history.

R
R7428MHmauroc
August 19, 2025
Excellent tour of Rio de Janeiro

We opted for a private 10-hour tour because we wanted to see as much as we could in the limited time we had. Rio is a very big city with a lot of traffic and moving from one place to another might be challenging and time-wasting. I can say this was a very good choice. The tour was very well organised (excellent contacts with the organizers and prior to our arrival I received a whatsapp message with the details of our guide). Our guide Camila and our driver Sergio picked us up at our hotel in Lapa and showed us all day around the city. Camila was super professional, she explained a lot of things and curiosities about Rio and we managed to see all we wished. In addition to this, she is a very nice and cheerful person and this made our day both interesting and amusing. Thank you! Thanks also to our patient and nice driver Sergio who often drove in Rio's traffic jams while we were visiting a place and then managed to pick us up again near the place we had just visited. I can say they have been a fantastic duo :) I highly recommend the tour!

T
thomasmV9391YI
April 26, 2025
How to take a guided city tour

We had a wonderful day, and enjoyed the sights very much. Gustavo was an excellent guide. The company is very well organized. We will recommend Gregtours. Thanks for everything! Thomas and Kerstin Meyer

Operator response

Vielen Dank für Ihre großartige Bewertung, Thomas und Kerstin! 😊 Wir freuen uns sehr, dass Sie einen wunderbaren Tag in Rio hatten und die Sehenswürdigkeiten genießen konnten. Es ist toll zu hören, dass Gustavo als exzellenter Guide den Tag unvergesslich gemacht hat. Wir schätzen Ihre Empfehlung sehr und hoffen, Sie bald wieder für weitere Touren begrüßen zu dürfen! 🌟

B
B8334LXkierans
April 21, 2025
An essential for any trip to Rio!

We took the tour with Gustavo. He really made it a fantastic experience! He kept the day to a great pace and was super informative. He was also very flexible, moving things around so that we could see Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf in the afternoon when the weather had cleared up. Overall great day with Gustavo!

Operator response

Thank you for your fantastic review! 😊 It’s great to know that and we truly appreciate your feedback and hope to welcome you again for more amazing experiences in Rio! 🌟

S
Safari67839948567
February 15, 2024
An Exceptional, Rain-Proof Tour of Rio with Junior and Camila

Our 10-hour private car tour of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, was an extraordinary experience, thanks to our exceptional driver, Junior, and our knowledgeable guide, Camila. Despite the relentless rain, this tour exceeded all my expectations. Junior, our driver, was a standout star. His promptness in picking us up and dropping us off right at the entrances of various attractions was incredibly convenient, especially given the inclement weather. His driving was safe and efficient, navigating Rio's bustling streets with ease. Junior’s sense of humor was a delightful bonus, adding a lighthearted touch to our day. Camila, our guide, was a fountain of knowledge. Her insights into the history of Ipanema, Copacabana, and other iconic Rio locales were both educational and engaging. Her expertise shone through as she narrated the rich tapestry of Rio's past and present. The rain could have been a dampener, but Camila skillfully adjusted our itinerary, ensuring we missed nothing. Her ability to secure VIP entrances to all venues was nothing short of miraculous, allowing us to bypass very long queues, a perk that can’t be overstated. A highlight was our visit to the Christ the Redeemer statue. Just as the clouds parted, Camila and Junior navigated us there, turning a potentially missed opportunity into a breathtaking experience. Furthermore, Camila's assistance in upgrading our Carnival tickets was invaluable. She not only escorted us to the ticket office but also facilitated the transaction, ensuring we were not taken advantage of. This level of service was both unexpected and deeply appreciated. In conclusion, I cannot recommend this tour enough. If you're planning a trip to Rio and want an unforgettable experience, look no further. Junior and Camila will ensure your adventure in Rio is as exciting and seamless as ours was. Whether rain or shine, they’ve got you covered!

Operator response

What an extraordinary day despite the rain! 🎉 We're thrilled to hear that your 10-hour private car tour of Rio de Janeiro exceeded all your expectations! 🇧🇷 Junior and Camila truly are exceptional, aren't they? 🌟 Junior's promptness, safe driving, and sense of humor made the journey both convenient and enjoyable, even in inclement weather! 😄 And Camila's wealth of knowledge and ability to adjust the itinerary seamlessly ensured you didn't miss a thing! 🗺️ It's fantastic to hear that you had a breathtaking experience at the Christ the Redeemer statue, especially with the clouds parting just in time! 🙌 And Camila's assistance in upgrading your Carnival tickets speaks volumes about her dedication to ensuring you have the best possible experience! 🎟️ Thank you so much for highlighting these incredible moments! 🌟 We're thrilled to have been a part of your unforgettable adventure in Rio! ☔☀️ We can't wait to welcome you back for more exciting experiences in the future! 🌴👏

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