set in rio's south-west zone, praia da macumba (macumba's beach) is a beautiful beach with fine white sands, clean waters, and strong waves. about 1.4 km long, this beach has only recently became popular with rio's residents looking for a space away from it all, yet easy to reach, and with some urbanization and infrastructure.

located between the pedra de itapuã (also called itapoã) and the canal de sernambetiba, this beach owes its name to the many afro-brazilian religious ceremonies that took place near the rock and near the canal in the past - it is common to see offerings on this beach throughout the year, and especially on december 31st.

Macumba is a term used to describe an African-Brazilian religion which is characterized by a synthesis of African faiths and practices, elements of the Catholic religion, the occult, European culture and spiritism. According to the 'family tree' of African-Brazilian religions - it is a variant form, or offshoot, of Candomblé.

Macumba is also commonly associated to rituals that are practiced in a number of these afro-Brazilian religions and cults, including the sacrifice of animals (such as cocks), spirit offerings and ritual dances.