Kid Friendly Fun in Rio de Janiero

Riding the Rio Bondinho Cable Car (Flickr: Nan Palmero)

Families are discovering an endless array of kid-friendly fun in Rio de Janeiro. Rio is more than Carnival parades and parties. Kids can hike through a rainforest, take a cable car ride through the clouds, build cities out of sand, and stand in the shadow of a 120-foot statue. These are just a sampling of the adventures that await families in Rio. Here are a few fascinating (and unique) attractions and activities sure to make lasting memories for the whole family.

Copacabana Beach Sand Castles

Sea, sun and sandcastles – Copacabana beach has everything families need for a fantastically fun day at the beach. Take surf lessons, soak up the sun and seek out some sensational sandcastles. All along the famous Copacabana promenade, amazing artists sculpt colossal castles, giant dragons and sprawling kingdoms – entirely out of sand. One talented sculptor created Corcovado Mountain topped with Christ the Redeemer. Artists are always creating new masterpieces, and some even ask kids to help.

TIP: Many beachfront hotels offer beach set-up service, or reserved beach areas complete with chairs, towels and umbrellas. Viewing the sand sculptures is a free activity.

Cable Car Ride to Sugarloaf Mountain

The stunning mountaintop views and cool cable cars make Sugarloaf Mountain a “can’t miss” family attraction. Cable car rides are a short, three-minute trip, but the experience is unforgettable. Kids will marvel that it takes two cable cars to climb up more than 1,200 feet to the top of Sugarloaf. The slow climb is smooth as peanut butter and very kid-friendly.

The first ride ends at Morro da Urca, where families can walk the Green Path, grab a snack and see older models of cable cars on display. One of the cars is of James Bond fame, ask a guide to point it out. From Urca, families can take a cable car back down or continue up to Sugarloaf. Cable cars depart every 20 minutes.

TIP: Outdoorsy families can take a 30-minute hike up to Morro da Urca then ride the cable car to Sugarloaf. The park is open most days from 8am to 7pm. Kids under 6 years are free.

Tijuca National Forest

Tijuca National Forest is one of the world’s largest urban rainforests. The 8,000-acre park offers a wide range of kid-friendly activities. Families with older kids may enjoy some extreme sports, such as hang gliding, rock climbing and repelling. Younger families can seek out quiet picnic areas or follow a leisurely walking trail. Tell the kids to watch for curious monkeys who tend to hang out along the walking trails. The dense and expansive jungle is best explored through private or group tours. Check with the hotel concierge for recommendations.

TIP: Entry to the Tijuca is free, but Corcovado/Christ the Redeemer (located inside the park) does charge admission. The park is open most days from 8am to 5pm.

Cog Train to Christ the Redeemer Statue 

A must-see attraction for families is Corcovado Mountain and the magnificent Christ the Redeemer statue. The red cog train makes getting to the mountaintop incredibly fun for kids. As the electric train chugs through lush forests, keep an ear open for howler monkeys, the forest’s noisy inhabitants. Once atop, capture postcard-perfect pictures of the panoramic views of Rio. Let the kids marvel at the towering 120-foot Christ statue, which is one of the seven modern wonders of the world.

TIP: Go early to avoid crowds, or sign up for a group or private tour. Ticket prices vary during high and low season. Children 5 and under free.

Parque Lage

Parque Lage is a relaxing family escape from the bustling city. Once an old sugar mill, the buildings and grounds have been transformed into a peaceful oasis. Stroll down the tree-lined walking paths, explore artificial caves and admire the beautiful greenery. Monkeys do roam the park freely. Remind kids not to chase or touch the monkeys, they are wild after all. The mansion building is now home to the School of Visual Arts of Parque Lage, which frequently hosts free art exhibits. Pack a picnic, or treat the family to lunch at the café.

TIP: Guided tours are available and can be arranged prior to a visit. Park is open most days from 8am to 5pm. Admission is free.

Where to Stay:  Sheraton Grand Rio Hotel & Resort

Family-friendly meets five-star at the Sheraton Grand Rio Hotel & Resort. Three pools, including children’s pool area, SHERATOONS Kids’ Club, and beachfront access are sure to keep kids satisfeito. The resort offers an array of daily family activities, check recreation schedules upon arrival. The resort's semi-private beach is only steps away, no busy streets to cross. Families interested in sightseeing should ask the concierge, who readily gives suggestions, and even makes reservations for some of the area’s most popular tours.

TIP: The resort offers family vacation packages. Check the website for details.

Maribeth contributed this article to minitime.com. Check websites for up-to-date information.