Culture · 3½ hours
Afro-Brazilian Heritage Tour
Some of Rio's most important history lies in places the city once tried to erase.
Walk through Pequena África—Little Africa—and discover the African presence that helped shape Rio and, ultimately, Brazil itself.
Led by an accredited Afro-tourism guide, this experience brings forward the people, stories, traditions, and cultural legacy that remain woven into Brazilian life today.
The Experience
Over approximately three and a half hours, you'll walk through Rio's historic Port Zone, moving through streets, museums, memorials, archaeological sites, and public spaces that preserve different chapters of the city's Afro-Brazilian history.
Along the way, your guide connects places such as Pequena África, Pedra do Sal, Valongo Wharf, and the Pretos Novos Cemetery and Institute with the people and traditions that emerged from this part of Rio. You'll encounter stories of resistance and reinvention alongside the music, spirituality, food, and cultural practices that grew from them.
Part of the journey uses Rio's VLT light rail, but most of the experience unfolds on foot—allowing the history to reveal itself in the streets where it actually happened.
The Details
- Duration
- 3½ hours
- Experience Type
- Guided walking tour
- Area
- Rio de Janeiro's historic Port Zone / Pequena África
- Transportation During the Experience
- VLT light rail is used during part of the tour and is included.
- Physical Activity
- This is a walking Experience through city streets. Travelers should be comfortable walking for an extended period.
Places Along the Journey
The journey moves between places whose meaning matters more than their order.
- Museum of Afro-Brazilian History and Culture
- Praça da Harmonia
- Largo da Prainha
- Pedra do Sal
- Valongo Wharf
- Valongo Market
- Beco João Inácio
- Pretos Novos Cemetery and Institute
What connects these places is the story your guide carries between them.
Included
- Accredited Afro-tourism guide
- Admission to the Pretos Novos Memorial and Institute
- VLT light rail transportation used during the tour
- Guided interpretation connecting history, archaeology, music, spirituality, and Afro-Brazilian culture
Gallery
Make It Your Own
Afro-Brazilian Lunch
An Afro-Brazilian lunch may be added to the Experience.