This sprawling collection of makeshift communities has gotten a new lease on life since the inauguration of a teleférico (cable car) in 2011. With five stations set on the hills of this 70,000-strong community, the once arduous journey in and out of the favela is now a breeze. Tourists are slowly discovering one of Rio’s newest unsung attractions, which has splendid views over the hillsides. Disembark at Palmeiras (the upper-most station) for a poke around. There are snack stands here and occasional live music on weekends.
The easiest way to get to the lowest gondola station, Bonsucesso, is by taxi, though if you’re confident moving about Rio, you can take a commuter train from Central Station to Bonsucesso, which connects to the teleférico (and save yourself R$50 one-way taxi fare). Be aware, that although security has improved dramatically in the last few years, there are still occasional outbreaks of violence, with the rare shootout between police and drug traffickers every now and again.
