Things You Can Do With Kids in Rio De Janeiro

One of Rio’s newest attractions is the aquarium. With a well-organised structure and teeming with a rich diversity of marine life, it is something children will love. During the week is the best time to go as not only will you avoid the weekend crowds, there is also the touching tank activity on weekdays where visitors can touch various species of marine life. The shark tank, a tunnel that runs through a huge aquarium with sharks swimming above and to the sides, will appeal to adults and kids alike.

Aquarium, Via Binário do Porto, 194 – Gambôa – Praça Muhammad Ali, Rio de Janeiro, +55 (21) 3613 0700

Take a day trip from Rio de Janeiro to Angra dos Reis, a small coastal town just one hour’s drive from the city. From there, you can take a 30-minute boat trip over to Ilha Grande, an island defined by its paradisaical beaches, crystal clear waters, and tropical forests. It’s possible to go and return on the same day, but the real joy comes from spending a couple of nights there to go exploring forest trails and snorkelling among the exotic marine life.

The botanical gardens are one of Rio’s most beloved and most-visited tourist attractions. Teeming with thousands of species of exotic plants, kids can spend a pleasant afternoon identifying the many birds, insects, and flowers that thrive there. The garden has special features such as a Sensory Garden that has been created to let children touch and smell unique plant species. Just outside the gardens are several museums with collections of insects and orchids, in addition to a French bakery that makes an ideal spot for a satisfying lunch.

Botanical Gardens, R. Jardim Botânico, 1008 – Jardim Botânico, Rio de Janeiro, +55 (21) 3874 1808

The lake known as Lagoa in the south zone of the city is a great place for kids. The 7.3-kilometre cycle path that encircles the lake is flat and smooth, making it ideal for a pleasant bike ride whilst enjoying the gorgeous scenery and peaceful ambiance. Bike hire is available from one hour up to a day’s rental. You can also take kids out onto the lake on a swan boat, which is a great way to spend an easy, fun hour. The abundance of rustic-styled restaurants dotted around the lake provide plenty of lunch and dinner options. Keep an eye out for the resident wild capybara.

The Sugarloaf Mountain is one of Rio’s most iconic monuments and appeals to both kids and adults. Adults will probably appreciate the panoramic views whereas children will love the cable cars going up to the summit. The cable car starts at Praia Vermelha in Urca and makes its first stop at Morro da Urca. From there, you can get off and enjoy the snack bars and restaurants on top of the first peak before making the final leg of the journey over the sea and up to the Sugarloaf. Kids tickets are half price.