The biggest stories of the day delivered to your inbox.

so consider going with a reputable guide (such as Hike in Rio) or in a group, especially during the week when the hikes are quieter. Favelas are misunderstood places, and some are perfectly safe ...

Priced out of Rio's favelas, Brazil's poorest communities are squatting in abandoned government buildings. Despite billions of dollars pledged by the authorities to improve housing, Rio's poorest ...

The rapid growth of Rio de Janeiro's population has led to severe crowding and a shortage of housing. This has led to the growth of shanty towns, which are called favelas in Brazil. Rocinha is the ...