Rio Beaches & Pedra do Telégrafo: Jeep Tour, 18 Stops & Sunset Photos

Summary

Jeep adventure through Rio’s wild beaches, forest trails and that sunset at Pedra do Telégrafo

You’ll ride in a comfy jeep past 18 different Rio beaches (some only locals know), hike through lush forest to reach Pedra do Telégrafo for those wild sunset views, and get pro photos along the way. Expect laughter, sandy feet, and moments that stick with you long after you’ve left Rio behind.

What’s the experience like?

Crumbs from a banana in my lap, camera strap digging into my neck, I’m squinting through the sunroof as our jeep bounces along the edge of Barra da Tijuca. Our guide—André, born-and-bred carioca—keeps up this running commentary about each beach we pass. He points out a fisherman mending his net by the waterline and tells us how even locals haven’t seen half these spots. The air smells like salt and sunscreen, but there’s also this earthy note from the forest we keep dipping into. I kept losing track of which beach was which after number seven or eight—honestly, they start to blur together in the best way.

We’d jump out every so often for photos (the photographer was relentless—in a good way), toes in warm sand or climbing over rocks slick with spray. At Prainha, I tried to order coconut water in Portuguese; André laughed and rescued me from total embarrassment. Lunch was at some club overlooking a mangrove—I didn’t expect paddleboards and reggae music but there they were. Food wasn’t included but prices were fair, and I still think about that grilled fish with lime. There’s something about eating outside with your feet dusty from walking that just makes everything taste better.

The climb up to Pedra do Telégrafo is where things got real. The jeep took us most of the way—thank god—but the last stretch was on foot through thick Atlantic forest. Forty minutes felt longer when you’re sweating and trying not to slip on roots. But then you reach this ledge where everyone lines up for that photo (you know the one—it looks like you’re hanging over an abyss). Our photographer directed us patiently while André handed out cold water and bananas. Sunset hit while we were still up there: pink clouds over Rio’s coastline, wind picking up just enough to make you zip your jacket. Someone played music quietly from their phone; nobody said much for a minute or two.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Jeep tour of 18 beaches and sunset

• Drive along the coast visiting beaches
• Stop for photos at several beaches
• Visit surf beach for 15 minutes
• Explore hidden beach with natural pool
• Visit Prainha Beach for 15 minutes
• Pass by nudist beach area
• Pass by Grumari Beach
• Lunch break at private club with paddle boards
• Climb steep slope by jeep
• Hike 1.5 km through forest
• Enjoy sunset from 300m high viewpoint

Top questions

How many beaches are visited on this jeep tour?

The tour includes stops at 18 different beaches along Rio’s coast.

Is hotel pickup included in the day trip?

Yes, pickup is available from any hotel in Rio city for private tours.

How difficult is the hike to Pedra do Telégrafo?

The final 1.5 km hike takes about 40 minutes and is moderately challenging but manageable for most fitness levels.

Are meals or drinks included during the tour?

Cold water, sodas, coffee, bananas and crackers are provided; lunch is not included but there’s a good stop with fair prices.

Is there a professional photographer on this tour?

Yes, a professional photographer accompanies the group throughout the day for photos at all stops.

What vehicles are used for this Rio jeep tour?

The tour uses comfortable 4x4 jeeps such as Toyota Land Cruiser Prado or Troller T4.

Can children join this tour?

Children aged 4 and above can join; under 4s are not permitted due to safety regulations.

How long does the entire day trip last?

The full experience lasts around 9 hours including all stops and hiking time.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup (for private groups), travel in an air-conditioned 4x4 jeep with WiFi onboard, cold drinks and snacks throughout (water—even on the trail—plus sodas, coffee, bananas and crackers), all photography gear handled by a pro photographer who joins every stop, plus accessories like binoculars or headlamps if needed. Lunch isn’t included but there’s time at a club with good food options before heading up to Pedra do Telégrafo for sunset views before returning to town in the evening.