The Rio de Janeiro harbor is right in downtown, and it is located in the second largest port in Brazil, called Pier Mauá. Ships, boats and barges need to enter the Guanabara Bay (the greatest bay in Rio) to finally dock at the harbor, where passengers embark/disembark.
The harbor of Rio de Janeiro is extremely busy in the summer and around it (mainly December, January, and February) as it is an important starting point for cruises to/from Rio. The busiest days are Saturdays and Sundays, when two to four (or more) cruise ships dock at the terminal, disembarking thousands of cruisers as well as part of vessels crew.
The harbor of Rio de Janeiro is busy on the summer weekends, but nothing compared to the days around New Years Eve and Carnival, when the area becomes way too crowded and slightly chaotic.
Upon clearing customs, international travelers can immediately board the previously arranged tour buses. Cruisers who have not booked tours, can arrange directly with taxi drivers on site. Some of the drivers are also tour guides and may speak English — it is a matter of luck. However, bear in mind that most Brazilians (from Rio de Janeiro, or from other cities in Brazil) do not speak foreign languages.
Other passengers just take a walk and start exploring the downtown area on their own, next to the harbor.
The bottom line is that to visit Rio de Janeiro upon disembarking at the harbor you have basically three choices:
- ► 1. Previously book a group shore excursion/tour on a bus
- ► 2. Previously book a private tour guide with his own vehicle (the most recommended)
- ► 3. Choose a taxi on site
If you choose to hire a personal tour guide then you should read about all the points of interest, attractions and lookouts you can visit in Rio de Janeiro. Do not leave it completely up to your guide. Pick your preferred sites in My Rio Travel Guide – The Essential How-To Visitor’s Guide to Rio de Janeiro. In this guide, you will also find a listing of recommended and legitimate tour guides.
If you choose to take a taxi on site, then you will for sure benefit from the detailed suggested itinerary found in My Rio Travel Guide. You can simply present the itinerary to the cab driver to follow.
If you choose to explore the area near the harbor (business district/downtown/old Rio de Janeiro) you will also benefit from the detailed map, which highlights places of interest in the area as well as restaurants (where locals go to eat), shops, etc.
Whatever way you want to visit Rio upon disembarking at the harbor, you will benefit tremendously from the tips, advice, and travel information in My Rio Travel Guide.
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