Brazil · Walking Tours

Little Africa Unveiled: Vibrant Afro-Brazilian Heritage in Rio

4 Hours Round trip from Rio de Janeiro Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Explore Rio’s Little Africa on a 4-hour walking tour
  • 02 Visit Santa Rita Church and sites tied to Afro-Brazilian memory
  • 03 Discover the history of Pretos Novos Cemetery and Cais do Valongo
  • 04 Learn about slavery, resistance, religiosity, and the roots of samba
  • 05 See the Suspended Garden of Valongo and the historic Pedra do Sal
  • 06 Walk through Lapa, including Beco João Inácio and Mosaico Hilário Jovino

Discover Rio de Janeiro’s Little Africa on a thought-provoking walking tour through places that reveal the city’s Afro-Brazilian heritage. Along the way, explore sites connected to slavery, memory, religion, resistance, and the cultural roots of samba.

Visit historically significant landmarks including Santa Rita Church, the Pretos Novos Cemetery area, Cais do Valongo, the Suspended Garden of Valongo, Pedra do Sal, and corners of Lapa shaped by art and everyday life. This experience offers a deeper look at the stories, struggles, and lasting contributions of Afro-Brazilians to Rio and Brazil.

The tour starts at Santa Rita church in Largo de Santa Rita, which was built on the first cemetery for enslaved people.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 4 Hours
Tour type Shared
Activity level Easy
Accommodation Not included
Transport Not included
Wheelchair access No
Cities Rio de Janeiro, Lapa
Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

The tour starts at Santa Rita church in Largo de Santa Rita, which was built on the first cemetery for enslaved people. It combines colonial and baroque architecture with intricate ornamentation and religious artwork. The church is a powerful reminder of the region's history of slavery and attracts visitors interested in Brazil's cultural heritage.The Museum of History and Afro-Brazilian Culture (MUHCAB) is a fictional institution that aims to preserve and promote the rich heritage of Afro-Brazilian culture. It showcases artifacts, artworks, and documents highlighting the experiences and contributions of Afro-Brazilians throughout history.This institute is dedicated to research and the preservation of the historical and cultural heritage related to the African diaspora in Brazil.

The primary focus of the IPN is the study and dissemination of the history and memory of the Pretos Novos Cemetery, which was an important burial ground for enslaved Africans and their descendants during the colonial period in Brazil.Known as the largest port for African slaves during the transatlantic slavery trade. It operated from the late 18th to early 19th century, with an estimated one million enslaved Africans passing through it.The Suspended Garden of Valongo is a remarkable creation that emerged during the early 20th century as part of the city beautification efforts led by the Pereira Passos administration, a period known as the Belle Époque. This enchanting garden stands as a testament to the vision and commitment to enhancing the urban landscape of that era.It is a vibrant gathering place for those who appreciate samba, ice-cold beer, and a lively atmosphere. Regarded as one of the coolest spots in the world, according to Times Out.Beco João Inácio is a small and historic narrow street in the Lapa neighborhood, known for its steep hills and stone pavement. It is considered a picturesque and charming place, filled with old houses, some of which have been around for over a century.

Mosaico Hilário Jovino is an urban art piece that embellishes a specific section of the Lapa neighborhood. It is a colorful mosaic made of tiles, covering an extensive wall.Pedra do Sal, also known as "Pedra do Sol" or "Stone of the Sun," is a historic site located in the city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. It holds great cultural and historical significance as a gathering place for African-Brazilian communities and is considered the birthplace of samba music.

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Rio de Janeiro 2 cities · 4 Hours

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Bilingual Tour Guide

What's Not Included

  • Meals and beverages

Know before you go

  • PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION NEARBY
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Not stroller accessible
  • Not suitable for pets
  • Infants must not sit on laps
  • Infant seats unavailable
  • Meet the guide at the designated meeting point and time at least 10 minutes prior to the tour's departure.
  • Meeting point: Largo de Santa Rita - Centro (behind the Hotel Windsor Guanabara)
  • Meeting address: Largo de Santa Rita - Centro - Rio de Janeiro - RJ,
  • Start: 09:00 AM on Tuesdays and Saturdays (15-minute tolerance).
  • Start: 02:00 PM on Thursdays and Fridays (15-minute tolerance).
  • In the very unlikely situation that the client are not able to locate our driver, please call our emergency telephone number below.
  • Contacts:

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Rio de Janeiro, BR
Tour start
Rio de Janeiro, BR
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 4 hours finish where they began, in Rio de Janeiro.

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