Tavares Bastos is downtown Rio’s most laid-back community, perched above the Catete neighborhood. We ride mototaxis up and walk down, through alleys, small shops and everyday stories.
The most famous moment is the FIFA Street pitch — yes, that one: a game there is mandatory. All around it, the real life of the community and views you don’t expect this close to downtown.
What we see
- The mototaxi ride up and the walk down through the alleys
- The community’s everyday life and local commerce
- A game on the iconic FIFA Street pitch
- The views over downtown and the bay
From the tour
6 photographs
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Practical info
- Meeting point
- Rua Bento Lisboa 72, Catete
- Duration
- 2.5 hours
- Group
- min 2 · max 20 people
- Languages
- EN · IT · PT
Rua Bento Lisboa 72, Catete.
Included in the price
- Mototaxi to the top
- Community visitation fee
- Guide in English, Italian or Portuguese
Book this tour
Book with me, for a personalised, made-to-measure service: message me on WhatsApp or DM me on Instagram and we’ll sort out the date and availability. The platforms are here just as a showcase.
Live availability
Pick a day and book it in a couple of taps. No online payment: your place is confirmed straight away and you pay me in person on the day.
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Frequently asked questions
Where and when do we meet?+
We meet at Rua Bento Lisboa 72, Catete. The tour lasts about 2.5 hours. Daily departures, minimum 2 people.
What is included in the price?+
€52 per person. It includes the mototaxi and the guide in English, Italian or Portuguese. Tavares Bastos is downtown Rio’s most laid-back community.
Do we really play on the FIFA Street pitch?+
Yes: the iconic FIFA Street pitch is here and a game is almost mandatory. Around it, the community’s everyday life and views over downtown and the bay.
Is it safe to visit a favela?+
Yes, with a guide who knows the community. I have walked these streets for 9 years and I know the people: we only go where we are welcome. I always tell you where we are and how to behave, and never photograph people without asking. Small groups, easy pace.
Is the tour ethical?+
It is not a human zoo. We enter with respect and part of what you pay stays in the community: the local guys’ mototaxis, the community fee, the families and artists we meet. I tell the real life, without turning poverty into a show.
Can I take photos?+
Yes, but not of people without asking first. Views and painted walls, always; people and homes only with their permission. I will point it out as we go.
Is it suitable for kids and families?+
Yes, the pace adapts to the group; for very young kids we will figure out the mototaxi together.
What should I bring and wear?+
Comfortable closed shoes (we walk downhill on uneven streets and stairs), water and a little cash for a coffee or local crafts. Comfortable clothes, nothing flashy; a hat and sunscreen on sunny days.
How do I book?+
You book with me: message me on WhatsApp or DM me on Instagram (@vidapiena) and we sort out the date and availability together, tailored to you. You’ll also find me on Viator, GetYourGuide, Airbnb and Civitatis.
What if it rains or I need to cancel?+
In heavy weather we agree on another date together. For dates, changes or cancellations just message me directly on WhatsApp or Instagram; the minimum is 2 people.