August M
Once considered dangerous no-go zones, Rio de Janeiro’s favelas are now attracting huge numbers of international tourists eager to experience a different side of Brazil’s most famous city.
But as favela tourism explodes in popularity, growing debate surrounds whether visiting these communities is truly safe — and whether outsiders are crossing ethical lines.
From danger to destination
According to BBC reporting, areas such as Vidigal and Rocinha now draw more visitors than some of Rio’s best-known attractions, including Christ the Redeemer and the Selarón Steps.
Tourists are increasingly flocking to sunrise hikes, rooftop viewpoints, music events, and guided walks through the hillside neighborhoods.
One of the most popular experiences begins before dawn in Vidigal, where visitors crowd onto motorcycle taxis before hiking to the top of Rio’s iconic Two Brothers Mountain.
In recent months, celebrities including Spanish singer Rosalía and footballer Jesse Lingard have also been spotted exploring Rio’s favelas.
Safety fears remain
Despite the tourism boom, concerns over violence continue to shadow the neighborhoods.
Earlier this year, a police operation in Vidigal reportedly trapped around 200 hikers on the mountain after gunfire erupted during clashes involving suspected gang members.
Some travelers interviewed by the BBC admitted they reconsidered visiting after hearing about the shootout.
“It could have been my friend group,” Polish tourist Daria Kurpiewska said after learning about the incident shortly after her own visit.
Experts say violence has long been part of favela life, though some areas have become safer in recent years due to tourism and increased policing.
Ethical questions
The rise of favela tourism has also triggered criticism over whether some visitors treat poor communities as spectacles.
Canadian traveler Angel Njoku said she skipped a guided walk through Vidigal because she worried about “taking pictures and gawking at the people that live there.”
Critics have previously compared some older favela tours to “poverty tourism,” particularly during the 2014 World Cup and 2016 Olympics when visitors explored neighborhoods in safari-style vehicles.
However, many local residents and guides argue tourism now provides important income for communities through restaurants, tour companies, motorcycle taxis, music venues, and cultural events.
More than stereotypes
Researchers and local activists say visiting favelas can also help challenge stereotypes and offer a deeper understanding of Brazilian culture and history.
Many of Brazil’s most famous cultural traditions — including samba, funk music, and capoeira — were shaped inside favela communities.
“The big question is not whether or not one should go up to the favela, but how does one go into the favela,” urban studies professor Mariana Cavalcanti told the BBC.
Local guides encourage tourists to visit respectfully, avoid intrusive photography, and support businesses run by residents themselves.
Sources: BBC
