Little Africa: Historical & Heritage Tour of Rio de Janeiro

Immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant Afro-Brazilian culture of Rio de Janeiro. Discover the city’s past, explore the ‘Little Africa’ region, and learn about the impact of Afro culture on national identity. Join us for a memorable Carnaval Experience!

Duration: 4 hours
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights
  • Statue of General Osorio - Gathering Spot
  • Boulevard Olimpico - A promenade constructed for the Olympics, located where the old port area was during colonial times
  • Matriz da Paroquia de Santa Rita - Former burial site for African slaves
  • Maua Square - A plaza adjacent to the Port, home to the Museum of Tomorrow and the Rio Art…
What's Included
  • Experienced tour guide
Additional Information

Discover the heart of the city and its bustling seaport, rich with the history of Brazil and its people. In the ‘Little Africa’ district, gain insight into the history of slavery through the perspectives of those who endured the Atlantic trade and their descendants. Learn about racial issues in Rio de Janeiro and Brazil, and explore the influence and legacy of Afro culture on the nation’s identity.

Location
Praça Quinze de Novembro
in front of the statue of the horseman
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
4.7
(10 Ratings)
5 stars
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1 star
Lucinda_o
Apr 27, 2026
Walking through history - This was a powerful and eye-opening experience, bringing Rio’s rich Afro-Brazilian history vividly to life. Our guide Nathaly was passionate and knowledgeable, keeping us fully engaged throughout with stories and insights that made the walking tour truly memorable. One small suggestion for improvement: on very sunny days, incorporating a bit more shade into the route or brief shaded pauses would make the experience more comfortable. Overall, a meaningful and worthwhile tour.
Review provided by Viator
Brandy_j
Apr 8, 2026
The movement continues - Nathaly is an expert guide! Very knowledgeable and informative. I learned so much about the history of Brasil and the impact black Africans had on the nation.
Review provided by Viator
Douglas_d
Mar 28, 2026
Nice historical view of... - Nice historical view of the Port, military, lil Africa and the surrounding area. The walking is manageable, but be careful on hit days! Our guide Anna Maria was excellent; very knowledgeable, patient and polite. She deserves 5 stars!!!!!
Review provided by Viator
Samia_g
Dec 8, 2025
Wonderful Experience! - Lots of walking and loads to learn! Great tuor guide who was passionate about subject matter. Highly recommend!
Review provided by Viator
Explorer518989
Dec 7, 2025
A must do tour while in Rio Janerio so informative - This is a must do tour if you visit Rio Janerio. Nathalia was an excellent guide. She has boundless knowledge and imparted this in an interesting and engaging manner. She has a sharp sense of humour that was an added extra. If you want to know Rio Janerio beyond the surface, this is the tour for you. This was one of the best activities I did in Rio Janerio and if I return would do again.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Monica_b
Oct 17, 2025
Phenomenal Tour - What an awesome tour!! Our guide Anna Maria was knowledgeable, kind, and super insightful. The tour was full circle with history, art, a great meal and wonderful conversations. We wish Anna Maria the very best. Thanks so much for being a great tour leader and teacher. 10/10 - would recommend. :)
Review provided by Viator
Cherieann_s
Oct 15, 2025
Walking with a Friend - Wonderful tour off the beaten track to see important aspects of Rio's culture. Nathaly was the perfect tour guide. I felt like I was walking around with a good friend, having conversations and all my questions were answered. I felt safe and i was super grateful for Nathaly who met me at my hotel and who returmed with me so at no point was I alone and by myself. I would highly recommend this tour especially for solo travellers who want to walk around with a friend in Rio!
Review provided by Viator
Sabrina_n
Apr 3, 2025
Our guide was very... - Our guide was very knowledgeable and we learned new facts about the African slave trade to Brazil. Highly recommend!
Review provided by Viator
Linda_s
Mar 31, 2026
Passionate Presentation! - Informative. Guide was passionate about Afro Brazilian history. Would recommend tour to others interested in history and culture.
Review provided by Viator
Diandra_v
Jan 3, 2026
I’ve had better tours. I... - I’ve had better tours. I don’t think it was worth $75, maybe $35 or maybe if we had another tour guide. Rafael gets brownie points for waiting on us since taxi took us to wrong place due to misunderstanding and language barrier and he was very nice but besides that, no eye contact, not personable, a lot of walking and standing with my elderly mother, only 3 stories, 3 places and didn’t seem very knowledgeable. I’ve been to over 30 countries and their African tours I’ve learned more. Maybe would’ve been better having a tour guide that was African. Anyone can read a book but experience is priceless.
Review provided by Viator
From $55
up to 10 guests
1 - Adult
Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience (local time).