Rio De Janeiro Leisure

Rio is set to be the host of the Pan American Games in 2007. These are the very popular regional version of the Olympic Games. The city is currently undergoing a big redevelopment programme in preparation. Despite the excitement surrounding the games, football still remains Brazil’s national and most popular sport. 

A plethora of sports options

Hang gliding and paragliding are popular pastimes for both tourists and locals. Once in the air, you can experience the fantastic view over the city. There are numerous companies across Rio that offer gliding services.

Another popular hobby in Rio is fitness. There are exercise stations located all along the beaches and there are gyms on almost every street. It is somewhat of an obsession among the locals, with all gyms being open to non-members.

With its vast stretches of beach, Rio is the perfect place to partake in the many water sports available. Football and volleyball are often played on beaches and are great fun to both watch and play.

Football

The Maracanã stadium is one of the largest football stadiums in the world. It is home to three major football clubs: Flamengo, Botafogo and Fluminense. If you enjoy watching a game of football, a trip to the stadium on a match day is not to be missed.

If you enjoy walking and hiking, there are many pleasant walks to be had around the city, and a hike up Sugarloaf will satisfy any hiking desire.