Santa Teresa, Lapa & Selarón Steps Walking Tour
Overview
Santa Teresa is the Rio of artists' studios, faded mansions and steep cobbled lanes, and this walk takes you through it from top to bottom. You start with a ride on the bonde, the yellow tram that has climbed the hill since the 19th century, crossing high above Lapa on the white arches of the old Carioca Aqueduct.
At the top, wander the lanes with your guide, past galleries and small cafés, to the Parque das Ruínas, the shell of a former mansion with a viewing terrace over the bay and Sugarloaf. Then head downhill to the Escadaria Selarón: 215 steps that the Chilean artist Jorge Selarón covered from 1990 with more than 2,000 tiles, many sent by visitors from over 60 countries.
The walk ends at the foot of the steps in Lapa, beside the arches, where the samba bars open in the evening.
Highlights
- Ride the yellow Santa Teresa tram
- Cross the Lapa Arches high above the street
- Bay views from the Parque das Ruínas
- Walk down the tiled Selarón Steps
- Artists' lanes, galleries and cafés
What's included
- English-speaking guide
- Walking route through Santa Teresa and Lapa
- Tram ticket, unless stated by the operator
- Hotel transfers
- Food and drinks
- Tips
Location
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Send us your dates and a SkyRay advisor will confirm availability and price.
Itinerary
Frequently asked questions
Santa Teresa is hilly, but the tram takes you up and the walk is mostly downhill. Wear comfortable shoes with good grip.
It is usually closed on Mondays, so the route may change that day. We will confirm when you book.
