rio de janeiro is a wonderful city to explore, rich in architecture as it is in nature.  charming neighborhoods and interesting districts are guaranteed to provide engaging entertainment and a pleasant alternative to the beach.  however, such explorations can become as dangerous as they can be fun.

we strongly recommend a private guide or a personal assistant to go with you and your group, but should one choose to walk around town and explore alone, one must make sure to plan in advance where to go and when.

rather than wandering randomly, visitors should use a map and plan an itinerary to follow ahead of time.

studying the streets before going and marking on a map landmarks, reference points, and metrô stations is advisable.  understanding a neighborhood's topography ahead of time can prevent getting lost and accidentally entering unsafe or deserted areas.