by Emily Krause
Last updated: 6:00 PM ET, Mon September 3, 2018
When you think of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, does samba, Bossa Nova, or caipirinhas come to mind? That was definitely the case for me. I imagined it to be a great city for a couple's getaway or a girls' trip where adults could relax on the beach before heading out to the bars for a cocktail and dancing.
I never thought to add it to my list of cities to visit with my children. That all changed after experiencing the city and seeing all Rio has to offer families.
This big city is home to natural playgrounds, like verdant forests and sprawling beaches. The Carioca people, or people from Rio who embody the spirit of the city, are some of the kindest and warmest you'll meet. I observed families with young children almost everywhere we went being welcomed with open arms.
Here are the reasons I'm bringing my kids with me next time I visit Rio de Janeiro:
It's Easier than Ever to Get There
With the introduction of the e-visa, visitors can go online and apply for their visa instead of traveling to the Brazilian consulate. It only takes a few days, costs just $40 and is good for two years. This streamlined process makes travel to Rio more accessible to families than ever before.
With amenities like free Wi-Fi, power outlets, passport scanners that passengers can use to speed up the check-in process and multiple restaurants unique to Rio, the newly-renovated RIOgaleao International Airport makes coming and going a pleasant experience. Don't forget the duty-free shopping featuring local brands, or the 7 VIP areas where you can wait for your flight in luxury.
The Beaches
Rio is known for its world-famous beaches, like Copacabana and Ipanema, but there are a few hidden gems which are preferable for families. Try Leme Beach for a family-friendly atmosphere where your kids can play in the long stretch of sand, and snacks and beverages are available for purchase right on the beach.
In between Copacabana and Ipanema Beaches is Arpoador Beach-which is a quieter spot with a huge rock formation. This is a great place to have a picnic or utilize the walking trails while you watch the sunset.
Famous Landmarks
Brazil is home to one of the new Seven Wonders of the World, the Christ the Redeemer statue. As a 30-year-old who has visited 11 countries and seen many famous landmarks, I still audibly gasped when I caught my first up-close look at it. I can only imagine how awe-inspiring the experience would be for a small child.
Take the Corcovado Train up the mountainside to reach the statue and watch the forests of Tijuca National Park pass by your window. Once at the top, you'll have the chance to join the sea of selfie sticks and posing tourists to get some once-in-a-lifetime photos.
Another of Rio's main landmarks is Sugar Loaf, a peak seen from Guanabara Bay. Take a cable car first from Red Beach to Urca Hill, then from Urca Hill to the Sugar Loaf where you'll be treated to panoramic views of Rio.
Nature
Something unique about Rio de Janeiro is the amount of natural beauty found in such a large city. In fact, Tijuca National Park is the world's largest urban forest.
The best way to enjoy the rainforest with kids is a Jeep Tour, which is a guided tour through Tijuca in an open-air Jeep. You can stop at some of the most scenic and storied places in the forest for pictures and hike a few trails easy enough for even the smallest of children.
Another way to experience nature in Rio is by visiting the Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon. Rent a swan boat, canoes or bikes to enjoy some time outdoors. Families with young kids will find that it's easy to spend a day in this tranquil spot with the playgrounds, plentiful snack options and lovely vistas.
The Botanical Garden is another excellent spot to take in the diverse species of plants and animals native to Brazil.
Kid-Friendly Cuisine
Even your pickiest eater will find something to love about Brazilian cuisine. Try a churrascaria, which is a restaurant that serves meat cooked barbecue style. Waiters walk from table to table with skewers loaded with different cuts of meat, which you can accept or decline.
Fogo de Chao is a popular restaurant chain that has mastered this style of food service. Check out the location in Barra da Tijuca for a stunning view of the mountains. For those who don't love meat, there is an excellent all-you-can-eat salad bar with loads of options.
Many restaurants in Rio are buffet style, which means each person only has to eat what looks good to them. I'm confident any kid would love the pao de queijo, or cheese bread, as well as acai bowls, smoothies or juices. Confeitaria Colombo is a high-quality buffet inside one of the most stunning and historical buildings in Rio.
More adventurous eaters should try moqueca, a dish made with fish, palm oil, coconut milk and peppers, or feijoada, a Brazilian take on pork and beans.
Cultural Activities
Rio offers plenty of indoor fun and culture for families, too. The Museum of Tomorrow is a fascinating look at the future of our world and how we can affect change. The architecture of the building is stunning, and there are some great views out the back windows of the museum.
Right outside the Museum of Tomorrow is Porto Maravilha, which was recently redone for the 2016 Olympic Games. Olympic Boulevard boasts some massive murals which promote diversity and peace.
Beautiful and Safe Hotels
Naturally, you'll be looking for a hotel that's comfortable, safe and near tourist attractions. Hilton Copacabana fits that criteria. To top it off, the view of Copacabana Beach is second-to-none. If you need a break from exploring, the kids will enjoy the two outdoor pools as well as the fabulous breakfast provided each morning.
Staying at the Hilton Barra will take you away from the heart of the city, but in exchange, you'll find some great shopping and a free shuttle to the beach. The Abelardo restaurant in the lobby has incredible food in case you and your family don't feel like heading out into the city for meals.
Now that Rio de Janeiro is more accessible to the average traveler, it's time to get out and explore the Marvelous City. What are you waiting for? Check out the Rio Convention & Visitors Bureau for more trip-planning ideas.
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