9 am: Christ the Redeemer - To truly understand the fascinating beauty and unique topography of Rio de Janeiro city, it is essential to get views from up high, and where better to do this than from the great heights of corcovado mountain, in the majestic presence of the statue to cristo redentor (christ the redeemer).

The most enjoyable way to make the trip is by the quaint, old train which leaves from cosme velho, meandering through the lush and diverse Tijuca National Park (parque da tijuca) where the great statue is situated.

From the foot of christ, at the peak of the mountain, one is able to take in Rio in all its splendor and diversity - how the mountains intertwine with beaches, forests and the bustle of a metropolis, and how rich neighborhoods intersect with the sprawling and diverse favelas.