I just returned from a trip to Brazil which included visits to Salvador (for the Boa Morte festival) and Rio. I had read so much about favela tours, both positive and negative. I went on a tour led by Marcelo Armstrong and had the added "advantage" so to speak, of getting caught in a traffic jam in the favela and having to spend about an hour more than we were scheduled to. The time I spent with the residents of the two favelas we visited was clearly the highlight of my time in Brazil. It much surpassed the time spent in Copacabana, Ipanema, etc.

Lorraine

Hi,

Could you share Marcelo Armstrong's information and how you got in touch with him? He is a local taxi driver who can take you around? I would like to visit the Favela and from what I heard it is not safe to go there unless youa re escorted by someone. Is that true?

Can you suggest other off the path things you did in Rio? Also what are the things to do in Salvador? I will be in Salvador for 3 days and was planning on taking a day trip to a nearby town. Do you have a recommendation?

thanks
lajja

Lorraine, how good is your Portuguese?
Jess

I agree it is really something unique to see the Favela.

Their home may not be great but they have a terrific view!

Marcelo Armstrong's contact details are in the Lonely Planet guide-book.

There's also a very spirited debate about this topic on Trip Advisor.