About Us
The Rio you feel — not just visit
Some stories begin with a journey.
Ours began with friendship — and with Rio de Janeiro itself.
Years ago, two Cariocas met while working at a multinational company. Born just hours apart, they soon realized how much they had in common: a love for travel, for stories, and above all, for the Cidade Maravilhosa.
Between projects and coffee breaks, they dreamed of creating something that went beyond corporate walls — something that could connect people to the real soul of their city.
What started as a small blog, filled with personal tips and discoveries, evolved into a purpose-driven company: Rio de Janeiro by Cariocas, a boutique DMC that reveals the city from the inside out.
Our Essence
We believe Rio is not a postcard — it’s a pulse.
It’s the laughter echoing from a samba rehearsal, the scent of the ocean at sunrise, the smile of the local who gives directions even when he’s in a hurry.
To truly know Rio, you must live it — and that’s what we invite travelers to do.
We curate authentic, sophisticated, and deeply personal experiences, guided by locals who live and love every corner of this city.
Each itinerary is handcrafted to reflect the rhythm of those who visit and the soul of those who host — blending comfort, culture, and connection in equal measure.
What we do
At Rio de Janeiro by Cariocas, we create tailor-made itineraries and private tours that celebrate the diversity of Rio and beyond — its islands, mountains, flavors, and stories.
From cultural immersions and gastronomy to nature getaways and lifestyle experiences, we design journeys that go far beyond sightseeing.
Because for us, traveling is not about ticking boxes — it’s about creating stories you’ll want to tell again and again.
Our mission and vision
Mission
To craft exclusive and meaningful travel experiences that connect people, cultures, and places — always with respect, authenticity, and the warmth of the Carioca soul.
Vision
To inspire a more conscious and inclusive way of traveling, where every encounter generates positive impact and every journey becomes a bridge between worlds.
Our Values
We live and breathe Rio — and we share it as it truly is: with truth, charm, and pride
Every journey is unique. We listen, design, and refine each detail to honor the individuality of every traveler.
We create spaces for real encounters — with locals, with nature, and with yourself.
Responsibility for what is ours
We care for our destinations as we care for our home. We promote responsible tourism that values people, culture, and the environment.
We believe the best memories are born from spontaneity. Our experiences flow naturally — with the effortless joy of the Carioca way of life.
The Founders
Monique Martins
Tourism professional since 2004, Monique embodies the city’s vibrant energy. Born in Madureira, she knows Rio’s heartbeat — from samba schools to sunset spots. With an MBA in Marketing and Digital Communication, she transforms her love for Rio into experiences that blend knowledge, joy, and the perfect touch of Carioca warmth.
Rachel Jaccoud Amaro
Historian (UFRJ) and MBA graduate (FGV), Rachel has always seen travel as a form of storytelling. A digital nomad by nature, she finds in Rio her safe harbor and endless source of inspiration. Her writing and vision bring depth to every journey — connecting travelers not just to places, but to meanings.
Together, they turned their shared dream into a living brand — one that welcomes travelers as friends and introduces Rio with pride, care, and heart
Meet our team
Meet some of the local guides who proudly work with Rio de Janeiro by Cariocas.
Leo Carvalho
Culture & History
Lais Tammela
Nature
Aline Plavnik
Sightseeing
Laryssa Sampaio
Sightseeing
Andre Angulo
Culture & history
Lia Godoy
Music & Nightlife
Celso Junior
Sightseeing
Luana Ferreira
Culture & History
Carina Gomes
culture & history
Matheus Butrucci
Music & Nightlife
Gabriel Lannes
Nature & Hiking
Paulo Nascimento
Sightseeing
Alan Denis Homsi
Sightseeing
Alberto Cardoso
Sightseeing
Our Promise
We don’t just organize trips.
We design experiences that move you — emotionally, culturally, and humanly.
Each journey is guided by the same principle that founded our company: authenticity with soul, sophistication with simplicity, and hospitality with purpose.
Travel with us — and live Rio with body, soul, and heart, like a true Carioca.