because of its impressive size and territorial scope, rocinha has developed a very eclectic and buzzing character, and the great expanse if divided into roughly 21 sub-districts, which span different qualities of infrastructure.

these microcosms form an exuberant whole - the streets are always alight with cheery residents and a tangible sense of community, and exhibit and exude an array of scents, sounds and activities.

the lower region of the favela is more trade-based, offering a diverse array of very well-priced supermarkets, clothes, shoes and homecare stores - beyond these, it also offers fast food chains, concert halls, fitness centers, a post office, banks, public schools and daycare centers.

the district is also home to a highly impressive samba school, known as acadêmicos da rocinha - taking as its symbol a blue, green and white butterfly, around the period of carnival vibrant and engaging rehearsals can be viewed, to the great support and admiration of residents and visitors.