About Rio Free Walking Tour

Rio's first free walking tour operator. Since 2013, we've been showing locals and travelers the real Rio.

Our Story

Rio Free Walking Tour started its journey in 2013, pioneering the free walking tour concept in Rio de Janeiro. We were the first to bring this model to the city, taking national and international tourists - including cariocas - to discover the history of Brazil through Rio's Historic Center, which for over 200 years was the capital of the country.

Our commitment to bring culture and entertainment to people is our main motivation. We believe that understanding a city's history shouldn't come with a hefty price tag, and that the best tours are led by people who genuinely love what they do.

What started as a small operation has grown into Rio's most trusted free walking tour company, with a 4.8/5 rating on TripAdvisor from over 1,000+ reviews. But we haven't lost sight of what made us special: passionate local guides, genuine storytelling, and a tip-based model that keeps quality high.

What Makes Us Different

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Rio's First Free Tours

We pioneered the free walking tour model in Rio de Janeiro in 2013. Trust the originals, not the copycats.

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Accredited Guides

All our guides are certified professionals with deep knowledge of Rio's history, culture, and hidden gems. No amateurs here.

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True Tip-Based

We don't have "suggested tips" or "recommended amounts." You pay what you genuinely feel the tour was worth. Period.

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Quality Over Quantity

We keep group sizes manageable and tours intimate. We're not trying to pack 50 people into a group - quality matters more than volume.

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Good Humor

History and culture don't have to be boring lectures. Expect storytelling, jokes, and context that makes everything click.

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We Love Rio

Our guides aren't just doing a job - they genuinely love this city and want you to see it through their eyes.

Our Tours

We offer three main free walking tours, each focusing on different aspects of Rio's rich history and culture.

City Center Free Walking Tour

Our flagship tour through Rio's Historic Center. Perfect for understanding the city's colonial, imperial, and republican history.

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Little Africa Free Walking Tour

Explore Rio's African heritage through the revitalized port area. A respectful, nuanced look at the city's Afro-Brazilian roots.

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Santa Teresa Free Walking Tour

Discover Rio's bohemian hilltop neighborhood. Arts, viewpoints, local life, and hidden corners most tourists never see.

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Join a Tour

No booking needed. Just show up and discover Rio with us.

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