There’s no place in the world quite like Rio de Janeiro. But to truly feel its heartbeat, you have to go beyond the postcards. Maryano Maya, Brazilian Indigenous model and activist, was born and raised in this cultural powerhouse—and in this guide, he takes you far away from the polished brochures and straight into the real rhythm of the city.

Forget the overpriced caipirinhas and guided tours to Sugarloaf Mountain. This is Rio as Maryano lives it—raw, vibrant, soulful. The streets are alive, the people are electric, and if you let yourself get lost here, you might just find something unforgettable.

There is no place in the world like Rio

Lapa

View place — Neighborhood in Rio

"This is my go-to place for drinking and dancing on the weekends. Make sure to start with Caninha da Roça—it’s this cheap cachaça for the local people. It’s an experience. This place truly highlights the lifestyle of the people, associated with the Malandro cariocas, who love samba and spending the night dancing."

Lapa is loud, gritty, and glorious. From its iconic arches to the endless nightlife, it’s the soul of Carioca bohemia—where every samba beat feels like home.

Pedra do Sal

View place — Iconic spot in Rio

"This is where most of the Black people who were brought to this continent during slavery arrived. It’s one of the cradles of Afro-Brazilian culture. I go there quite often on Monday nights—there’s samba music playing all night long. It feels like going back in time."

At Pedra do Sal, history echoes through the stone streets. It’s a sacred spot of resistance, celebration, and cultural pride—especially under the stars with samba vibrating through your soul.

Saara Bazaar

View place — Shopping district in Rio

"This is where I go shopping for a lot of cheap things. You’ll find the Saara marketplace—where you can buy anything you can think of. Jerseys, souvenirs, clothes—a lot cheaper than in the South Zone."

A chaotic shopper’s dream, Saara is a treasure trove of deals and energy. It’s where the locals go—and where you should too, if you want the real Rio on a budget.

Rasta Beach – Barraca 20

View place — Beach kiosk in Rio

"It’s a legalized place for people to smoke. For me, this is my favorite beach in all of Rio. It’s a great vibration. It’s where people from favelas go, and a lot of locals for sure."

This isn't Ipanema. Barraca 20 is where real Rio residents unwind. Good vibes, great people, and the kind of laid-back spirit that doesn’t need to be curated.

Luiz Gonzaga Center for Northeastern Traditions

View place — Cultural Center in Rio

"There’s tons of great food options here. There’s good karaoke, and lots of live music and dancing."

Craving authenticity? This is a cultural gem where music and food fuse into pure joy. It's a celebration of Brazil’s northeast and its vibrant traditions—chaotic, colorful, and so worth the detour.

Morro da Babilônia

View place — Favela in Rio

"This community is 100% open to the public. We don’t really call it a favela here. Thousands of gringos live there—it’s close to downtown and very cheap. I visit local businesses and go hiking—it gives a whole different view of the Sugarloaf and Rio."

Babilônia flips the favela narrative on its head. Welcoming, scenic, and full of entrepreneurial spirit—it’s where Maryano connects with locals and the land.

Tijuca National Park

View place — National Park in Rio

"It’s the biggest urban forest in the world. You have to see it for yourself. It’s a great place to connect with my ancestors. When I walk through this park, I always feel connected with nature."

More than a forest, Tijuca is a spiritual experience. Lush, green, and deeply rooted in Indigenous heritage, this is where Maryano finds grounding—and where you might too.

Favela Vidigal

View place — Favela in Rio

"There’s a lot happening here—different creative projects. I work at an NGO founded by local Black people who’ve been essential to the community’s growth. This is where I find my purpose. I used to work here a few days a week."

Vidigal is not just a place, it’s a movement. Bursting with art, activism, and innovation, it’s where grassroots meets global impact. And with Maryano as your guide, you'll see a side of Rio few outsiders ever do.

Maracanã

"Maracanã is our stadium, but also my favourite neighbourhood in Rio. Here, you will also find Aldeia Maracanã, basically it’s the only indigenous community inside of Rio. You cannot go there by yourself, but you can come there with me, and book the experience with Hyperlocal!"

Featuring Maryano Maya

Brazilian Indigenous Model turned Activist

Maryano kickstarted his modelling career with a mission to promote his Indigenous roots. He now represents some of the biggest fashion brands in Brazil, and uses his platform and travel agenda to empower his community all over the country. After spending some years abroad, he is now happy to call Rio home once again.

More about Maryano Maya

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