Carioca Experiences
Christ the Redeemer, Santa Teresa & Selarón Steps Private Tour
Combine a visit to Christ the Redeemer with an immersive experience exploring Santa Teresa, Rio de Janeiro’s most charming and bohemian neighborhood.
Duration
6 hours
Category
History & Sightseeing
Languages
EN | PT | ES
Transportation
Included
About This Tour
Experience two of Rio de Janeiro’s most iconic sides in a single private tour, combining the world-famous Christ the Redeemer with the timeless charm of Santa Teresa and the vibrant colors of the Selarón Steps. From breathtaking viewpoints to historic streets filled with local character, this itinerary offers a perfect balance of Rio’s must-see landmarks and its authentic cultural soul.
Begin your journey at Christ the Redeemer, one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World and the city’s most iconic landmark. On the way to the monument, travel through the lush Tijuca Forest, one of the largest urban forests in the world.
After your visit, follow the scenic Paineiras Road, a beautiful route winding through the forest and mountains, offering a peaceful transition between Rio’s natural landscapes and its historic neighborhoods.
Arriving in Santa Teresa, discover one of Rio’s most distinctive districts, where colonial architecture, artistic spirit, and a relaxed local atmosphere create a unique setting. Spend time exploring at your own pace, whether enjoying lunch at a traditional local bar, browsing artists’ studios and craft shops, or visiting Parque das Ruínas, one of the neighborhood’s most beloved cultural landmarks with beautiful panoramic views.
Your experience concludes at the iconic Selarón Steps, where thousands of colorful tiles celebrate creativity, culture, and the vibrant energy that make Rio de Janeiro one of the world’s most unforgettable destinations.
Perfect for travelers who want to go beyond a standard visit to Christ the Redeemer, this private tour offers a richer, more authentic way to experience Rio — combining scenery, history, art, and local life into one beautifully curated itinerary.
**Notice Regarding Access to Christ the Redeemer**
Christ the Redeemer is currently undergoing replacement work on the monument’s escalators, scheduled from August 2026 through the end of May 2027. During this period, access and circulation at the top of Corcovado will be affected, with visitor capacity reduced by 50% and limited space for circulation.
Access to the final section of the monument must be made via the stone stairways, with 220 steps to reach the Christ the Redeemer platform. For visitors with reduced mobility, including wheelchair users and other guests with mobility restrictions, stair-climbing chairs and equipment may be available on site.
Due to these operational changes, visitors may experience longer wait times, reduced ticket availability, changes in tour flow, and increased physical effort.
Additionally, the Corcovado Train is currently operating with reduced capacity. If train tickets are unavailable or if train operations may affect the quality and timing of the tour, access may be adjusted and provided via the official van service from the Paineiras Visitor Center.
The final access method will be determined by our operations team based on availability, weather conditions, and the operating conditions at Christ the Redeemer on the day of the tour.
Important Information
- The order of attractions in the itinerary may change without prior notice due to weather conditions or ticket availability.
- Cancellation Policy: Please review our complete cancellation policy at this link.
- Children’s Policy: Children under 2 years old (up to 1 year and 11 months) can join for free. For information on discounts on attraction tickets, please contact our sales team.
- Weather Conditions: We do not cancel tours due to inclement weather. Tours will proceed in rain or shine, except in cases of force majeure.
- Group Size: Our tours are based on a per-person rate, and prices may vary depending on the size of your group. For groups of 10 or more, please consult our sales team.
What's Included
- Corcovado Train ticket (Christ the Redeemer)
- Accredited bilingual tour guide
- Round-trip transportation in a private, air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver, including pick-up and drop-off from South Zone and Downtown locations (additional pricing may apply for other areas)
What's Not Included
- Food and drinks
- Personal expenses
- Gratuities (optional)
Book Your Tour
Why Choose This Tour
Well-paced tour
Cultural and Scenic tour
Ideal for travelers seeking a cultural and scenic private tour in Rio de Janeiro, beyond the city’s most famous landmark.
Curated Itinerary
A carefully curated itinerary blending nature, history, local life, and iconic viewpoints with personalized guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. This is a 100% private tour, designed exclusively for you and your group, offering a more flexible pace and a personalized experience.
Yes. Tickets to Christ the Redeemer are included, ensuring a smooth visit without the need to purchase them separately.
Yes. As a private tour, the start time and focus can be adjusted to better match your interests and travel plans.
Traveler Reviews
Fantastic experience. Traveling to Rio and did a tour to Christ the Redeemer, Santa Teresa and the Selaron Steps with Monique. Definitely made the experience all the more memorable. Besides getting picking me up and getting me around the crazy city that is RIo, Monique was fount of knowledge and great deal of fun to be with as well. She loves what she does and it shows. Will be booking additional tours with Monique during the remainder of my stay. Cannot recommend enough. Thank you Monique! Check it out on Google Reviews.
Michael Stefanski
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