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Tourio Favela Santa Marta: An Immersive Cultural Experience

Discover the vibrant culture and resilient community of Favela Santa Marta, made famous by Michael Jackson, offering a unique Rio experience.

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Explore the vibrant Favela Santa Marta in Rio de Janeiro, one of the city's oldest and most iconic favelas. This community, known for its rich history and resilient spirit, offers a unique glimpse into Brazilian urban life. Made famous by Michael Jackson's 'They Don't Care About Us' music video, Santa Marta provides an authentic cultural experience with stunning city views.

A brief summary to Tourio Favela Santa Marta

  • praca Corumba, R. Mal. Francisco de Moura, 251, Rio de Janeiro, Botafogo, State of Rio de Janeiro, 22260-004, BR
  • +552199130-5505
  • Visit website
  • Monday 8 am-8 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-8 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-8 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-8 pm
  • Friday 8 am-8 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-8 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-8 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking the favela's steep streets and alleyways.
  • Engage with local guides to learn about the history, culture, and daily life in Santa Marta.
  • Respect the residents and their community by being mindful of noise and privacy.
  • Visit the Michael Jackson statue and learn about its significance to the favela.
  • Check the operating status of the cable car in advance, as it may occasionally be out of service.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Copacabana, take bus line 108 to Voluntários da Pátria. From there, it's a short walk to the base of the favela. Bus fare is approximately R$ 4.70. Alternatively, take the Metro Lines L1, L2, or L4 to Botafogo station, then transfer to a local bus or taxi to reach the entrance of Santa Marta.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available throughout Rio de Janeiro. A taxi from Copacabana to Santa Marta typically costs between R$ 16 and R$ 20 and takes about 5 minutes. Be aware that Uber may have difficulty picking up passengers directly at the airport.

  • Walking

    If you are nearby in Botafogo, you can walk to the entrance of Favela Santa Marta. From the Botafogo metro station, it is approximately a 20-30 minute walk. Be prepared for some uphill walking.

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Discover more about Tourio Favela Santa Marta

Tourio Favela Santa Marta offers an immersive journey into one of Rio de Janeiro's most well-known favelas. Located in the Botafogo neighborhood on Morro Dona Marta, the favela provides a unique perspective on the daily lives and cultural traditions of its residents. The community's origins trace back to the early 20th century, with a chapel housing a statue of Saint Marta giving the favela its name. Santa Marta was the first favela in Rio to undergo pacification in 2008, which significantly increased its safety and appeal to tourists. The favela gained international recognition in 1996 when Michael Jackson filmed his music video 'They Don't Care About Us' there, solidifying its place on the map and leading to the creation of a statue and mosaic mural in his honor. Visitors can explore the community's narrow alleys, interact with locals, and learn about the favela's history and ongoing social projects. A ride on the inclined plane (cable car) offers panoramic views of Rio, highlighting the contrast between the favela and the city below. The samba school, Mocidade Unida do Santa Marta, adds to the area's vibrant culture, hosting events and participating in local carnival groups. While in Santa Marta, be sure to visit the Michael Jackson statue, a key landmark and tribute to the pop star's connection with the community. The Dona Marta Lookout offers stunning views of Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf Mountain, and Botafogo Beach.

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