those who would like to enter a favela should first and foremost ask themselves why. to be aware of ones reasons for visiting a favela is important to ensure cultral sensitivity. Is simply something they have heard they should do, or do they want to learn about an alternative and equally rich culture.

in the case that the aim is to truly engage, interact and learn, it is of fundamental importance that visitors educate themselves prior to making a visit.

without a basic understanding of the history and culture of favelas, visitors will be limited to a superficial experience. knowledge about the origin and history of favelas is necessary to appreciate the method, beauty and meaning behind the apparent disorder encountered in a favela. 

It seems impossible to truly understand the identity of any individual, institution or place without understanding the history that shaped its present. attempting to 'understand' or 'experience' a favela by simply gaining a short snapshot of its present, would do it  injustice.