Navigation is one of the key reasons why it is important to enter a favela accompanied by a local guide. without someone who is familiar with the routes throughout the favela, it is easy to get lost.  characterized by unmarked, makeshift streets and maze-like pathways which suddenly turn into tunnels and enclosed areas.

these unusual pathways can quickly lead to a loss of orientation resulting in anxiety and frustration, making it even more difficult to find the way out and leaving visitors vulnerable targets for petty crime.

Almost all favelas have moto taxi stations at their entry points, with plenty of drivers waiting to provide a ride to any accessible part of the community for a low cost.

This is the most common way to access favelas set on hillsides, across metropolitan rio de janeiro - a word of caution, the ride can be a surprising thrill with moto taxis drivers often performing the task in a showy manner taking on oncoming traffic without fear and sometimes even racing other moto taxis drivers.