Rocinha's favela terrace turns into viral tourism hotspot in Rio

 A rooftop terrace in Rio de Janeiro's Rocinha favela has become a magnet for tourists eager to capture viral drone videos showing them walking across the space with sweeping views of one of the city's largest low-income communities.

On the steep surrounding streets—where only small motorcycles can navigate—the growing flow of visitors waits for a turn at the now-famous spot. The terrace emerged as one of Rio's most talked-about tourist attractions after videos filmed there spread widely on social media beginning in 2025.

Renan Monteiro, CEO of Na Favela Turismo, said the experience goes beyond simply recording an eye-catching drone clip. "It is the whole setting around it: the tour with the guide, the guide walking visitors along the route and showing what is good about our community," he said.

Monteiro added that the attraction creates work not only for drone operators, but also for guides and terrace owners who are part of the experience.

Videos from the site showed a woman seated in a chair overlooking Rocinha, a couple walking across the terrace, and groups of young visitors filming clips, including one person holding a Brazilian flag.

The rise of favela-led tourism in Rocinha reflects a broader effort by local entrepreneurs to present a different image of the community while benefiting from growing visitor interest in Rio beyond its traditional landmarks.

Production: Sebastian Rocandio, Hugo Monnet/Reuters