Top 5 Sao Conrado Adventure Tours: Reviews & Recommendations

If you find yourself headed to Rio de Janeiro and itching for some heart-thumping fun, then, boy, are you in the right spot! Sao Conrado, is that place which is home to some seriously amazing adventure tours. We are talking experiences that will stay with you long after you’ve traded your Havaianas for… well, whatever shoes you wear back home. We have put together a list of the five absolute best tours you simply can’t miss, packed with details that really matter, like, “is it worth the cash?” and “will I actually enjoy this?”. You see, it’s the inside scoop to help you pick the adventure that screams ‘YOU!’

1. Hang Gliding Over Rio: A Bird’s-Eye View

First up is hang gliding, it tends to be like the undisputed king of Sao Conrado adventures. So, just try and envision this: you’re launching off Pedra Bonita, that’s a famous launch point. Suddenly, you’re soaring over the lush Tijuca Forest and getting those super great, jaw-dropping views of the coastline. It feels kind of like you’re in a movie! A super awesome, real-life, no-special-effects-needed movie.

With certified pilots taking the controls, you’re definitely in safe hands. We actually asked around and found a lot of these pilots, like, they have years, if not decades, of experience. Basically, you get to chill and soak in the beauty, while they do all the actual flying. Often, this tour lasts somewhere from two to three hours, including a detailed briefing, the flight, of course, and the landing right on Sao Conrado beach. Wow, right!

Why it’s awesome: The views, without a doubt, those ones really set it apart. The feeling of gliding effortlessly through the air, just try to experience it one time at least once. Things to keep in mind: Weather is key, the key, even. They won’t fly if it’s too windy or rainy, it turns out. Book in advance because these tours, just as a heads up, can fill up super quickly. The pricing generally starts around $150 USD, very possibly a bit on the steeper side, it’s that experience, though, it might be a bit worthwhile. So, to recap; Hang gliding, could be your trip highlight!

Read our full review: Hang Gliding Over Rio Full Review and Details See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Hang Gliding Over Rio)

2. Paragliding: The Lighter Side of Flying

Then we have paragliding, is that other awesome way to experience the skies of Rio. Is that what makes it a close cousin to hang gliding? Actually, instead of launching from a ramp, you’re running a bit before taking off, and you feel more like you’re floating than diving. So, this one tends to be a bit gentler, a bit more relaxed experience if that’s your vibe. Yet, you still get those spectacular views, just the same!

A little bit similarly to hang gliding, you’re strapped in with a pro. So, you don’t need any experience whatsoever. So, basically, just listen to their instructions, you should then have no issue taking photos and enjoying the sights. Now, what’s neat, these flights could possibly be a little bit longer than hang gliding, usually, they’re somewhere between 15 and 20 minutes, weather contingent of course.

Why it’s great: Super smooth experience. It may not be quite as adrenaline-pumping as hang gliding, this is something to note, though, many people, like myself actually, kind of, might prefer this calmer flight. Keep in mind: Also heavily weather-dependent, just the same as hang gliding. If you are someone who suffers from motion sickness, like some of the people in our group do, maybe consider taking something before your flight. You should then be okay. Usually, it might be just a little bit less pricey than hang gliding, very possibly starting around $130 USD. Is this worth it? Very likely, especially if you just want those easy going feels.

Read our full review: Paragliding in Sao Conrado Full Review and Details See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Paragliding Sao Conrado)

3. Two Brothers Hike (Dois Irmãos): Iconic Views, Leg Day Included

So, maybe you like your feet planted on solid ground? Well, fear not, there are awesome land-based adventures, as well. The Dois Irmãos hike tends to be one of those iconic trails in Rio, as far as trails go, anyway. So, Dois Irmãos translates to “Two Brothers,” which are those two majestic peaks that stand tall overlooking the Sao Conrado area.

The trek begins in the Vidigal favela, a neighborhood is that full of character and history. A short mototaxi or kombi ride takes you up to the trail entrance. Side note: Hold on tight! Is that what to expect as you start ascending the slopes. The trail itself typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour to climb. Basically, it’s a moderately challenging hike, it’s doable for anyone with, just a bit of fitness. The view from the top tends to be, spectacular.

Why it rocks: You’ll get incredible panoramic views of Ipanema, Copacabana, and Christ the Redeemer. A hike to these iconic Rio sites tends to be much more satisfying that simply viewing it from afar, maybe? It seems a little more genuine. Things to consider: Parts of the trail may be steep and slippery. Should you wear appropriate footwear? Maybe, then the views tend to be a hundred times better when you aren’t slipping all the time. Consider bringing water and snacks. This could very easily set you back around $30-$50 USD, this includes transportation and, like, a local guide.

Read our full review: Dois Irmãos Hike Full Review and Details See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Dois Irmãos Hike)

4. Rocinha Favela Tour: A Glimpse into Community Life

For an entirely different kind of adventure, Rocinha Favela tours have become super popular. Often, it is to be a guided walking tour gives you, an enlightening glimpse into one of Rio’s largest favelas. It isn’t an adventure that involves adrenaline, rather, it does often invite you to get to know another side of Rio’s culture and people.

Is that what happens when you wander the vibrant streets? Basically, you’ll experience the daily lives of the residents, check out the local businesses, and learn a whole lot regarding the community initiatives. So, many tours are led by residents. I guess you are then ensuring your visit supports the local community directly. Now, what happens with them? So, that personal connection makes the experience so much more authentic.

What’s impactful: Offers a much greater awareness and appreciation of Rio’s socio-economic landscape. Does it give you the opportunity to meet locals? Just that alone makes the tour very valuable and worthwhile. Keep in mind: Opt for tours with a, like, reputable operator is generally the only way to go. Basically, that means the agency must show respect for the community, and its residents, first. I can say first and foremost, no photography of residents without their permission, but also always practice respect. These tours typically range from $25-$40 USD.

Read our full review: Rocinha Favela Tour Full Review and Details See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Rocinha Favela Tour)

5. Surfing Lessons at Sao Conrado Beach: Ride the Waves

Maybe you enjoy riding a wave, or at least the idea of it? Is that one of those dreams people have? What happens if you go to Sao Conrado beach? So, why not give surfing lessons a whirl? You’ll actually find several surf schools along the beach that offer classes for all levels, if this is a possibility. The instructors are typically awesome, they are patient. And then they actually do get you standing up on that board before you know it!

With these lessons, just see it as, not only will you learn the basics of surfing, but, basically, you’ll get a fun workout as you try to catch the best waves. Often, Sao Conrado offers some good breaks for beginners and, also, intermediate surfers, so too it’s generally a great spot to learn.

What’s great: Fun, is that a great way to experience the ocean. Getting that one on one instruction often accelerates the learning process a bit quicker. So, just what exactly do you have to keep in mind? Lessons usually last around 1.5 to 2 hours. Also, this can be tiring. Maybe, you shouldn’t forget sunscreen. These kinds of lessons could possibly run you $40-$60 USD, generally including board rental.

Read our full review: Surfing Lessons at Sao Conrado Beach Full Review and Details See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Surfing lessons Sao Conrado)