Often communication is limited because of the language barrier, but in this regard, the guide can act as a communicative bridge, translating street signs, overheard conversations, and comments from passers-by.

Guides should be consulted and utilized as much possible, as they have valuable knowledge and insight about favela culture and how it interacts with the rest of Rio.  

It can also be a nice gesture to make a donation of some sort, either by purchasing something from the craftsman, or vendors, or making a contribution to the crèches, schools and social projects that abound in the communities - This is by no means enforced and should only be done spontaneously at the visitor's will.

crèches are particularly important in rio's favelas as they allow the many women who reside in the area to find jobs and work - in rocinha, for instance over 40% of successful small businesses in favelas are run by women.