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Where is Rio de Janeiro located?

Where Is Rio de Janeiro Located?

Rio de Janeiro is one of the most iconic cities in South America. It’s located in Brazil, along the Atlantic Ocean, and is often considered a symbol of the country.

This coastal city is world-famous for its Copacabana and Ipanema beaches, the towering Christ the Redeemer statue, and the scenic Sugarloaf Mountain. But beyond its beauty, many visitors wonder: where exactly is Rio de Janeiro located?

Rio de Janeiro on the Map

Rio de Janeiro lies on the western shore of Guanabara Bay, nestled between Copacabana and Itaipú. The city includes several islands like Governador and Paquetá, and is surrounded by hills and coastal mountains.

It occupies an area of 1,182.3 km² and has a population density of over 4,700 people per square kilometer. The terrain features a mix of flat plains, forested hills, and granite peaks.

Key Facts About Rio’s Location

Country: Brazil
Region: Southeast Brazil
Coastline: South Atlantic Ocean
Bay: Guanabara Bay
Distance from São Paulo: ~430 km (265 miles)
Nearby features: Serra do Mar mountains, tropical forests, and urban beaches

A Unique Landscape

Thanks to its unique geography, Rio de Janeiro offers dramatic contrasts. You’ll find:

Mountains and cliffs rising sharply from the sea
Tropical forests surrounding the city
Urban beaches stretching along the coastline
Lagoons and wetland areas that are part of the local ecosystem

Main Lagoons in Rio de Janeiro

Many of Rio’s lagoons are protected within national parks:

Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon
Jacarepaguá Lagoon
Marapendi Lagoon
Tijuca Lagoon

These areas are important for both ecology and tourism, offering natural beauty in the heart of the city.

Why Is Rio Called the “Marvelous City”?

Rio’s location gives it a breathtaking natural setting. With its blend of lush mountains, white-sand beaches, and vibrant culture, it’s easy to see why it’s called the “Cidade Maravilhosa” — the Marvelous City.

Check activities available in Rio de Janeiro

We have a complete list of activities and excursions to enjoy Rio de Janeiro. One of these activities is the Carnival Experience, to learn more about the amazing Carnival of Rio de Janeiro

Enjoy our tours to visit Rio de Janeiro and other destinations in Brazil

Are you looking for tours to visit Rio de Janeiro and other destinations in Brazil? One of my favorites is the #453 – Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paulo and Iguazu Falls. Check more information by clicking in the image below

More tours to visit Rio de Janeiro and Brazil

We have a complete list of tours to visit Rio de Janeiro and other amazing destinations in Brazil. Check our complete list of tours for Brazil here