Author name: Anita Beyond the Sea

Rio De Janeiro has been on top of my travel bucket list for years. When I finally got there let me say that everything I imagined exceeded my expectations! La Cidade Maravilhosa is truly unique and it has so many activities and things to see, from classical sightseeing to more adventurous excursions. So without further ado let’s see your final guide to the best things to do in Rio De Janeiro, based on a 4 days itinerary.

Disclosure: anitabeyondthesea.com is reader-supported. When you make a reservation through links on my site, I may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. That will help me keep the blog up and running. Thank you!

Note: when going through the guide, consider half a day to do each activity that is listed.

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Take the Gondola Ride up to the Sugarloaf Mountain

When I visited Rio the first time, there was only one thing I was sure I wanted to do: visit the Sugarloaf Mountain. It wasn’t disappointing! The Pao de Açucar has one of the most breathtaking views of the amazing city of Rio de Janeiro. Situated in the heart of the city you can enjoy many different views of the surrounding hills, beaches, and Niteroi.

As one of the main attractions in Rio de Janeiro, the line to buy the tickets is very long and may take even a few hours. You can buy the ticket online at no extra cost. Although, if you are willing to take the fast line you can buy the ticket for about double the price.

If you are willing to go at sunset (the view and colors are beautiful!), don’t forget to check the hours of the gondola. These are the official hours, but they may change:

LAST RIDE UP: Praia Vermelha / Urca Hill at 8 pm. Urca Hill / Sugar Loaf at 8:20 pm.
LAST RIDE DOWN: Sugar Loaf / Urca Hill at 8:40 pm. Urca Hill / Praia Vermelha at 9 pm.

Book your tickets for the Sugarloaf Mountain and head over the fast line.

Visit Christ the Redeemer

Did you know that Christ the Redeemer is one of the 7 Wonders of the Modern World? This impressive statue is a must-see attraction in Rio de Janeiro and one of South America’s most famous landmarks.

The statue is situated on the Corcovado one of the hills surrounding Rio. To conquer the top, you can book a bus ticket, or you can choose the Train which climbs to the top in about 20 minutes. I took the train both time I have visited, and the view is great even long before you reach the top!

Are you a hiker? There is a trek that crosses the forest on Corcovado Mountain and goes up to the Christ the Redeemer statue. The hiking starts in Parque Lage and takes about 2 hours to complete. If you are lucky, you may even see monkeys while walking in the forest. Just don’t forget to bring water! The walk is quite long and depending on the temperatures you may dehydrate very fast.

Weather transport you choose once arrived, the entrance is between 20 and 25 € depending on the season. Once you get your ticket you can finally get the access to the observation deck, after climbing the last 223 steps.

Book your tickets for the Corcovado Train.

Enjoy the view!

Relax on Copacabana and Ipanema Beaches

I bet that when you booked your Rio trip (or if you’re still planning it), you were already dreaming of sunbathing on two of the most famous Brazilian beaches: Copacabana and Ipanema. With the white sand, skyscrapers on the beach front, and coconut water kiosks, the beaches are one of the main touristic attractions in Rio attiring millions every year.

One of the coolest things to do in Rio is rent a beach chair and an umbrella, and simply sunbathe or dive in the blue water. But watch out for waves as the shore break may be dangerous. Otherwise, enjoy your time and don’t be shy to ask people if you can join their soccer or volley match, they are very friendly in general.

Wander in Jardim Botanico (the botanical gardens)

These beautiful gardens name a whole southwestern area and run on many kilometers. The most interesting thing about Jardim Botanico is the number of species it has. Not only species from the state of Rio de Janeiro but also from many other regions of the world. 

House to over 6,500 species of plants it is one of the lushest places in Rio! You can take a guided tour or have a walk through the many sections including the Orchid House, Amazon Garden, Sensory Garden, Japanese Garden, and also a series of small exhibits and museum spaces to enjoy.

If you have a little time you may skip it, but as a passionate photographer I loved wandering in the park while taking pictures of every flower and animal I saw.

Visit Santa Teresa neighborhood

One of the most known neighborhoods in Rio de Janeiro is Santa Teresa. Home to many art galleries and studios, this area adds a chic and bohemian touch to the already wonderful Cidade Maravilhosa.

When visiting you can take a ride on the typical Santa Teresa Tram which is a modern replica of the old tramcars. Otherwise, get lost in the narrow roads but don’t forget to visit the amazing Selaron stairs from Chilean-born artist José Selaron.

Get off the beaten path at Praia Vermelha

Praia Vermelha (or the Red Beach) is situated on the foothills of Pao de Acucar (Sugarloaf Mountain.) It is a small and quiet beach that has access to an exclusive sporting club. The view is great and there aren’t many tourists. The Red Beach gets its name from the reddish rocks that surround the shore.

You can have a glimpse of Praia Vermelha when you are on the Sugarloaf. It’s the second beach on the left when you are facing the Christ the Redeemer statue.

Little Extra: Celebrate New Year’s Eve

One of the most exciting things to do in Rio de Janeiro and a bucket list experience as well, is to enjoy the festive celebrations of Copacabana New Year’s Eve. The prices skyrocket and the city is very crowded but if you are in the mood for a big party, you should definitely plan your stay this time of the year!

Don’t forget to wear white, as it brings good luck! You can also complete your outfit with an accessory depending on what are your wishes for the New Year. Put a red flower in your hair for romance, braid a green leaf crown for a healthy year or wear a yellow belt if you are hoping for money and success.

Start the evening by doing a flower offering to the sea goddess Lemanja in the less crowded beach of Leblon.

After you have left your hopes and resolutions in the hands of the Ocean, you can reach Copacabana beach and the 2 million tourists joining the legendary party every year. The fireworks last about 20 minutes and are one of the best and most known pyrotechnic shows in the world. Completing the beautiful and shiny picture the many cruise boats get close to the coast to enjoy the fireworks within the bay.

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Rio de Janeiro isn’t on your bucket list yet?

Add it to your list now! It’s one of the most spectacular cities in the world. In number of attractions, atmosphere, and natural wonders. I mean have you ever seen the pictures of Guanabara Bay?!

Last but not least, if you are an architecture lover you may be interested in our 1-day itinerary, discovering architectural hidden gems in Rio de Janeiro city center. And to bring your Rio de Janeiro exploration to new heights check out the best Rio de Janeiro helicopter tours! Are you preparing your itinerary to Brazil? Check out our best things to do in Brazil!

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On our one week itinerary on the Island of Flowers, we visited Martinique Zoo and the Latouche dwelling on our 5 days vacation in Martinique. At first, we were quite skeptical to go. Coming from French Guiana which has the most amazing and eco-friendly zoo I have ever visited. We almost skipped it to enjoy one more day on one of Martinique’s amazing beaches. But Martinique’s zoo is much more than a simple zoo! Latouche was an ancient rum distillery with so much history. Furthermore, the zoo has an amazing garden with so many nice locations.

Disclosure: anitabeyondthesea.com is reader-supported. When you make a reservation through links on my site, I may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. That will help me keep the blog up and running. Thank you!

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How to arrive at Latouche Dwelling

Situated in the Northwest of the island, Martinique Zoo is nearby Saint Pierre, a small fisherman’s village. It’s also very close to Mount Pelée, Martinique’s active volcano.

You can combine a 4 hour hike on the beautiful Pelée Mountain (note it’s a moderate-expert trail), to the afternoon in Martinique Zoo after a lunch stop to eat delicious fish and sea food in Saint Pierre village.

Tickets Prices to Martinique Zoo

Depending on how much time you have for visiting, I recommend you book the nature pass for both the Martinique Zoo and Balata’s Garden to have a reduction. If you book the nature pass you will a small reduction on the global price. You can buy the e-tickets or check the prices here.

If you are a nature lover, both destinations are worth visiting. So don’t hesitate If you have enough time. You can consider half a day for exploring each destination.

Some History

The zoo runs in the Latouche dwelling, an ancient rum distillery, that is also one of the oldest habitations in Martinique. Its construction goes back to 1643. Back at that time, it was the property of Captain Latouche. For many years the dwelling was active as an indigo and manioc workshop, but also as a sugar and rum distillery.

In 1902 Mount Pelée erupted, generating one of the deadliest volcanic eruptions ever recorded in human history. Just like many other constructions around the area the Latouche property was severely damaged.

Today the few standing walls have been secured, and you can safely walk through the ruins of the ancient buildings.

What to expect from your visit to the Martinique Zoo

You will start your walk in the ruins of the ancient Latouche house. The path runs into the park to the remains of the machines used to transform sugar and rum. Inside the same structure, there is also a butterfly house. Once you are past the remains of the distillery building. You will find yourself in a huge aviary that hosts parrots, crowned cranes, red ibis, and flamingos.

The Martinique Zoo ends in a modern wooden house that has been turned into a museum. Inside, some objects and panels tell the history of the island, but also about piracy in the surrounding waters. It has also some pirate statues and silhouettes to amuse kids… or adults!

You can prepare for your visit via the Martinique Zoo website. Additionally, you can also book your tickets in advance, including the Pass Nature, if you are willing to visit Balata’s garden.

Is it worth visiting Martinique Zoo and Latouche Dwelling?

Absolutely! Even if I know you may be tempted to ditch it to spend another day on one of Martinique’s incredible beaches, you should visit Martinique Zoo and Latouche Dwelling. Especially if you are interested to learn more about the rum’s distillation process. Lacking inspiration for you Martinique itinerary? Check out ours based on a one week stay.

Do you have only a day to visit Martinique? With this guide about visiting Martinique on a cruise stop, you will be able to pick your favorite activities and create your ideal itinerary.

If you are looking for more tropical adventures, you may be interested in reading our French Guiana section. Otherwise, you may find the perfect inspiration in other destinations from all around the world.

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Camp Cisame is one of the best carbet I have ever visited in French Guiana. The location is idyllic, the food is delicious, and last but not least you can test your luck and search for gold in the river, or even see poisonous snakes in the forest. Tempted to visit but don’t know what to expect? Check out our experience there.

What is a carbet? It’s a wooden structure with a roof where you can hang your hammock. They are very common in tropical areas and there many people who live inside these wooden houses all around the world. When visiting French Guiana you will see many along the rivers.

Disclosure: anitabeyondthesea.com is reader-supported. When you make a reservation through links on my site, I may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. That will help me keep the blog up and running. Thank you!

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How to arrive

Camp Cisame is on the Approuague river, one of the largest rivers in the region. When you book your stay the pirogue transport is included. The meeting point with your hosts is at Regina’s dock, about 3 hours from Kourou (and Europe’s Space Center) and 2 hours from Cayenne.

From there you will embark on a pirogue for a 2-hour trip. Depending on the season, your navigation can be more or less calm, because of the water level.

Best time to visit Camp Cisame

When we visited in August, there was a moment when some of us had to get in the water to help the pirogue get past the rocks. During the rainy season, the water level is much higher, but you will risk having rainy days. And your walks in the forest may be very muddy!

For these reasons, when planning your stay, I’d recommend you go during the dry season. The weather is better for all your outdoor activities.

The must-try-activities in Camp Cisame

All the activities are included in the forfait you pay when booking, if you are in the mood for a walk you can always ditch the guided excursions to relax on the riverside or read a book.

Hike into the forest or descent the river transported by the flow

What’s more adventurous than a walk in the Amazonian rain forest? In Camp Cisame you may choose between two different hikes.

The first is a short walk in the forest, that lasts about 40 minutes and ends on the Approuague’s riverside. To go back to the camp, you are equipped with a life jacket, and you start your descent transported by the river’s current. It’s indeed a unique experience! You can choose either to swim or just chill and descent the river transported by the flow.

The second path is a circular trek inside the rain forest. On your walk, the guide will show you and explain the characteristics of the various plants and trees, or occasionally insects and animals on your path. For example, the amazing lance head we have almost stepped on. This viper is highly venomous, so forgive me for the quality of the photo, I was quite nervous while taking the shot!

Relax, meditate or fish

Inside Camp Cisame there is a carbet dedicated to relaxing. There you can sip drinks at 5 pm (French Guiana’s cocktail hour), read a book, or play shuffleboard against your partner, it’s more difficult than it looks.

Also, don’t forget to bring your fishing rod. It’s relaxing to spend a few hours on the dock, and you may fish for dinner!

Test your luck and skills in gold digging

This is undoubtedly the most exciting (and if you are VERY lucky profitable) activity you can do in Camp Cisame. So, without hesitating take the gold panning and go search in the small stream behind the carbets.

I filled a small bottle of dirt and a tiny minuscule gold particle, and I’m absolutely proud of it! But I know a friend who found a little gold nugget. Test your luck, it’s really funny. Although you should be careful with your back, as the position to filter water isn’t the most comfortable.

The food

I can’t talk about Camp Cisame without mentioning the food. It is truly delicious!

The appetizers called accras, fried fish beignets, are so good you will almost wish they were the main course. The fish is freshly taken from the river and the side dishes are very abundant and good! The drinks are very good as well. There are freshly made juices or rum flavored with local fruits and aromatic plants.

In French we say Bon Appetit!

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Experience the thrill of sleeping in the forest

If you are visiting French Guiana, consider spending at least 2 days at Camp Cisame. The nights in the Amazonian Forest are magical, although first timers will not sleep well. And you may also hear howler monkeys at dawn!

So, do I recommend you visit Camp Cisame? Absolutely! If you want to book your stay you can do it through the official Camp Cisame Facebook page. Have I triggered your curiosity in discovering French Guiana? Check out our top 6 reasons to why French Guiana should be on your bucket list.

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Are you looking for an elegant and authentic accommodation when staying in Cayenne? Hotel Ker Alberte may be the perfect solution for you. This charming creole colonial house has been renewed into a modern hotel. We had the chance to spend a night there and we loved it! Let’s see if you will love it too.

Disclosure: anitabeyondthesea.com is reader-supported. When you make a reservation through links on my site, I may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. That will help me keep the blog up and running. Thank you!

Note: This is NOT a sponsored blog post. It is an honest review of the location I have visited and stayed in. I have not received any payment for writing this blog post and I payed for my stay.

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How to arrive at Hotel Ker Alberte

Situated between the fruit’s market and the city’s Fort, Hotel Ker Alberte is in the ancient part of Cayenne. It’s very close to the Place des Palmistes, where you can find the famous bar de Palmistes. And a few minutes away from all the shops in the center. It’s close also to several nature spots like the Rorota Trail and a few of the most beautiful beaches in the area.

The hotel does not have a private parking, but there is enough place just in front of the entrance, and security controls it overnight so you don’t have to worry about your car.

The building

The construction is over a hundred years old, and it has the unique charm of colonial buildings. From the entrance, you can see a sneak peek of the garden which includes many varieties of tropical plants.

Once inside, the entrance is very cosy, and has steampunk vibes. The large hall is divided into a sitting area, which displays some interesting books about local nature and culture, and a breakfast and bar area.

Even if the restaurant area is nice, I highly recommend eating outside by one of the tables that are close to the swimming pool. The view of the lush garden is beautiful.

The historical building hosts a few rooms upstairs and a conference room. To get access to the other rooms you have to go outside and cross the garden on the left. Rooms are in front of you on three different floors. The decor is very nice as well, showcasing steal statuettes and vintage posters.

Note: the hotel doesn’t have a lift, so if you have a heavy suitcase or you are unable to take the stairs, don’t forget to ask a ground-floor room.

Hotel Ker Alberte’s Prestige room:

We stayed in the Prestige room number 11, one of the two suites on the top of the hotel. The view of the garden and swimming pool is very nice. Furthermore, you have a nice private terrace with so many plants and flowers around. Inside the room is 35 m² large and has all the basic comforts: air conditioning, TV, WiFi, coffee, and a tea machine.

The bathroom is a nice size, and it has a rain shower. In the beauty kit, you will find soap, body soap, and cotton swabs. The rooms are also equipped with a hair drier. If you are going to the swimming pool at the reception you can ask for a different towel.

The K Restaurant

The K restaurant is surrounded by the garden and the swimming pool. On its right there is an amazing graffiti made by the artist collective Muze Laru. The atmosphere at night is soft and romantic.

The restaurant offer menu à la carte or a formula. We wanted to go on a classic appetizer – main course – dessert formula, but the hearty dishes obliged us to stop after the main course.

First, we had land and sea appetizers. I was so happy to eat burrata, which is typically Italian. Following the appetizers, the main course was beef skewers and duck with a delicious blackcurrant sauce! I also loved the pumpkin puree that garnished both plates. The caipirinha was very good and not too strong.

The breakfast buffet is varied, there are French croissants and salted options as well. You can also order the freshly made crepes with a vanilla touch, they are very tasty! Or if you prefer a classic American breakfast, you may ask for scrambled eggs or an omelet.

In conclusion, why I loved Hotel Ker Alberte

The staff is very nice and professional, which is not obvious in French Guiana.

Unfortunately, we had a problem with our door’s lock. But the receptionist was very reactive and secured our belongings while we were away. Also, the lady who welcomed us at breakfast was very kind. She let us visit the hotel and took all the photos we wanted.

Overall, it was a nice stay and I definitely recommend it for your Cayenne’s getaways. It allows you to discover a historical colonial building with a modern twist.

Book your stay at Hotel Ker Alberte

A video is worth a thousand words, check out our virtual tour down below.

Prepare your stay in French Guiana

Are you looking for more travel inspirations from France’s wildest region? I’ve been living in French Guiana for more then 10 years, and I explored almost every corner of this amazing region. Be inspired by our wanderings on the French Guiana page.

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