Summer in Rio de Janeiro: Must-Do Tours, Best Times, and Essential Tips!

Summer in Rio de Janeiro is a unique experience. Long days, blue skies, lush landscapes, and a contagious energy make the city one of the most desired destinations in Brazil and around the world. To make the most of it, choosing the right tours and the best times makes all the difference.

Below, we’ve selected the most incredible C2Rio tours, perfect for enjoying the summer with comfort, exclusivity, and unforgettable views.

Sunrise at Sugarloaf Mountain with Exclusive Breakfast

Imagine starting your day by watching the sunrise from the top of Sugarloaf Mountain, with exclusive access before the official opening of the Bondinho Park. This tour is perfect for summer, when temperatures are more pleasant early in the morning and the soft light transforms Rio into a breathtaking display of colors.

The experience begins at Praia Vermelha, with early boarding on the cable car and a small group. The first stop is Morro da Urca, followed by the second cable car ride to the top of Sugarloaf, 395 meters above sea level. From there, you can enjoy stunning views of Guanabara Bay, Copacabana, and the Atlantic Ocean.

To complete the experience, enjoy an exclusive breakfast at the traditional Clássico Urca Restaurant, served as an all-you-can-eat buffet featuring typical Brazilian cuisine all accompanied by a spectacular view.

This is one of the best tours for those looking for things to do in Rio during the summer without facing crowds.

Rio at Sunrise: Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf Mountain, Dona Marta Lookout, and Parque Lage with Breakfast and Photos

Rio Awakening Before Your Eyes

This tour is ideal for those who want to optimize their time and visit several iconic landmarks at the best times of day. The experience starts early, with a stop at the famous Selarón Steps, allowing for peaceful, almost exclusive photos.

Next, the tour continues to Dona Marta Lookout, one of the most photogenic spots in the city during the famous golden hour. Then it’s time to visit Christ the Redeemer, one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World, accessed by air-conditioned van through the Tijuca Forest.

Breakfast takes place at the charming Jo&Joe, in Largo do Boticário, a space surrounded by the Atlantic Forest perfect for relaxing before exploring Parque Lage, one of Rio’s most beautiful historic parks. To wrap up the itinerary, the tour continues to Sugarloaf Mountain, ensuring a complete view of the city in a single day.

Rio Sunset Experience: Christ the Redeemer, Selarón Steps and Sunset at Sugarloaf Mountain

Rio Summer at Sunset

There’s nothing more quintessentially carioca than watching the sunset from Sugarloaf Mountain. This tour begins in the afternoon, with a visit to Christ the Redeemer at a strategic time, when the weather is milder and the lighting is perfect for photos.

After that, the stop at the Selarón Steps becomes even more vibrant under the late-afternoon light. The experience concludes at Sugarloaf Park, where the sky turns into a true natural spectacle.

Rio Nature: Tijuca Forest and Botanical Garden

A Green Refuge in the Heart of the City

For those looking to escape the urban buzz and intense heat, this tour is an excellent choice. The experience begins at the Botanical Garden, visiting attractions such as the Brazilwood tree, the Turtle Lake, the orchid garden, and the famous imperial palm trees.

Next, the itinerary includes the Chinese View (except on weekends) and a visit to the Tijuca Forest, one of the largest urban forests in the world. Light trails, waterfalls, and panoramic views make this tour a great option for hotter days.

Nautical Tours: Rio Seen from the Sea

Rio Boat Tour: Catamaran Cruise through Guanabara Bay

The Rio Boat Tour offers a complete experience through Guanabara Bay, departing from Marina da Glória aboard a comfortable catamaran. The itinerary includes iconic landmarks such as:

• Museum of Tomorrow
• Rio–Niterói Bridge
• Niterói Contemporary Art Museum (MAC)
• Historic fortresses
• Sugarloaf Mountain seen from the sea

An excellent option for those who want to discover Rio de Janeiro from a different perspective, with comfort and panoramic views.

Speedboat Tour in Rio de Janeiro

This sunset speedboat tour is one of the summer favorites. In addition to passing by the main landmarks of the bay, it includes a stop for swimming at Adão e Eva Beach and a special moment to enjoy the sunset with views of Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain.

A perfect setting for photos, celebrations, or simply relaxing to the sound of the sea—one of the most sought-after experiences of the Rio summer! If you love boat tours,

Parasailing in Rio de Janeiro

If you’re looking for excitement and spectacular views, the parasailing flight is a must-do experience. The tour starts at Marina da Glória, with boarding on a speedboat and navigation to the best spot for the activity.

Takeoff is slow, safe, and gradual, directly from the boat’s platform—no need to know how to swim or get wet. During the flight, which lasts between 8 and 10 minutes, you can reach heights of up to 60 meters!

From above, you’ll enjoy incredible views of:

• Sugarloaf Mountain
• Copacabana Beach
• Ipanema
• Guanabara Bay

Stand Up on Copacabana Beach

Start your day in a light and inspiring way with a sunrise stand-up paddle experience at Copacabana Beach. Upon arrival, a specialized instructor provides all the guidance, including basic paddling techniques and safety instructions.

After the briefing, you’ll paddle for about 5 minutes to the ideal spot to watch the sun rise on the horizon. The calm sea and morning silence create a relaxing experience that’s perfect for photos.

An ideal activity for those seeking well-being, contact with nature, and an unforgettable start to the day during Rio’s summer.

Jet Ski in the waters of Rio

For those who love speed and adventure, jet ski rental in Rio de Janeiro is the perfect choice. Ride through the waters of Guanabara Bay or along the coastline, feeling the adrenaline while enjoying incredible views of Sugarloaf Mountain and Rio’s iconic beaches.

✔️ Customized route
✔️ Guaranteed fun for friends and family
✔️ Unique views of Rio’s shoreline

A perfect experience to make your summer even more exciting.

Best Beaches in Rio de Janeiro During the Summer

To complete your experience in Rio, there’s nothing better than enjoying some of the city’s most famous and safest beaches. The secret to making the most of Rio’s summer is choosing the right times and the most suitable locations.

• Leblon (Lifeguard Stations 11 and 12): a calm atmosphere, great for families and for those seeking more comfort.
• Ipanema (Lifeguard Stations 8 and 9): famous, vibrant, and perfect for combining beach time, sports, and great energy.
• Barra da Tijuca (Lifeguard Stations 5, 6, and 7): wide beaches, ideal for summer, with plenty of space and excellent infrastructure.
• Praia Vermelha: small, charming, and quieter excellent for those who prefer calm waters.

Important tips:

• Choose beaches with more activity and the presence of kiosks
• Avoid bringing valuables
• Arrive early, especially during summer
• Use only licensed services
• When possible, give preference to weekdays

Rio de Janeiro is a city that truly comes alive in the summer, and with the right tours at the best times, your experience becomes even more special. Whether it’s sunrise at Sugarloaf Mountain, sunset seen from the sea, immersion in the nature of Tijuca Forest, or soaring over the city on a parasailing flight, C2Rio takes care of every detail so you can enjoy unforgettable moments.

Want to go beyond Rio?

Be sure to check out our special content about Arraial do Cabo and Búzios the perfect destinations for those who love paradise-like beaches and crystal-clear waters. Read the full article.

Get in touch with our team by clicking here or via WhatsApp at +55 21 3828-0370. Mention or apply the coupon BLOG5 and get 5% OFF on this and many other experiences throughout Rio de Janeiro! Book your tours and transfers in advance and enjoy Rio with comfort, safety, and ease. Visit our website, explore the options, and build the perfect itinerary with C2Rio!

Travel Agents

If you’re a travel agent, tour operator, or DMC, you need to check out the C2Rio Agent Portal! There, we offer our portfolio of products across the state of Rio de Janeiro with NET rates, instant confirmation, and a 12-hour advance booking window.

Simple & Hassle-Free: Our system provides real-time booking reports, easy payment via Pix, PayPal, and credit card, WhatsApp support, and seamless entry to attractions with a single QR code.