Meeting: 1:15 PM at Rio & Learn
Cost: R$7.90 (metro) + R$50 boat tour (cash only) + lunch
Get ready to discover one of Rio de Janeiro’s best-kept secrets! In this RioLIVE! activity, we’ll visit Ilha da Gigóia, a charming island hidden in the middle of Barra da Tijuca, where nature and city life exist side by side.
Often called the Pantanal Carioca, Ilha da Gigóia feels like a completely different world. There are no cars, only narrow streets, canals, boats, colorful houses, and an incredible variety of wildlife. It’s the perfect place to experience a quieter, greener side of Rio while practicing Portuguese with your classmates.
Our adventure begins with a guided boat tour through the canals of Ilha da Gigóia. As we explore the island from the water, we’ll learn about its history, discover why it’s known as the Pantanal Carioca, and admire its unique ecosystem. Keep your eyes open! The island is home to capybaras, caimans, herons, turtles, and many other animals living freely in their natural habitat. It’s an unforgettable opportunity to experience Rio’s biodiversity without leaving the city.
During the tour, we’ll also practice Portuguese by learning vocabulary related to nature, animals, transportation, and the environment, while chatting about everything we discover along the way.
After our boat tour, we’ll enjoy a relaxing lunch at one of the island’s most traditional restaurants, surrounded by beautiful views of the lagoon and the mountains. It’s the perfect moment to try authentic Brazilian cuisine while practicing Portuguese in a real-life restaurant setting.
From the island, we’ll also have incredible views of Pedra da Gávea, Pedra Bonita, and the lush landscapes that make this part of Rio so unique. Whether you’re taking photos, spotting wildlife, or simply enjoying the peaceful atmosphere, Ilha da Gigóia offers a completely different perspective of the city.
Because Rio de Janeiro is much more than beaches and famous landmarks. Ilha da Gigóia combines nature, wildlife, local culture, and authentic Carioca life in one unforgettable experience.
This RioLIVE! activity is perfect for anyone who wants to practice Portuguese outside the classroom, discover a hidden side of Rio, enjoy nature, and spend a relaxing afternoon with classmates. So bring your camera, your curiosity, and your adventurous spirit. Let’s explore the Pantanal Carioca together!
See some of our lasts visits at Ilha da Gigóia:
Yasmin Teixeira is Rio & Learn’s RioLIVE! Supervisor, bringing a strong background in hospitality, tourism, and event operations, which makes her a perfect match for leading unforgettable experiences in Rio. With hands-on experience coordinating corporate events and service teams in major hotels, she’s skilled at planning logistics, ensuring high service standards, and delivering smooth, guest-focused execution from start to finish. Her international experience in Germany and a natural talent for welcoming and assisting people means she knows how to create a warm, organized, and engaging environment for our students. Yasmin blends professionalism, energy, and attention to detail, exactly what RioLIVE! needs to run with excellence.
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