On the morning of Day 6, we slept in. I mean, five days of walking nonstop around Rio de Janeiro (and a side trip to Petropolis) is not easy. My legs were hurting like crazy so it was better to rest. Just a little bit.
Anyway, it was raining for most of the day. You usually don’t associate Rio with rain but IT DOES HAPPEN. But you guys know me. After a good breakfast and copious amounts of laugh with some of the travelers staying at the hostel, we defied the rain and ended in the streets of Copacabana. We took a good look at the shops, book shops and even some tour companies (you know, taking note for when we return). We even entered a supermarket to check it out. It is interesting to see how the Brazilian markets are stocked. The products are so different from what I am use to see in the US markets. However, there is certain resemblance with what is sold (and eaten) in Puerto Rico.
I am not sure what happened after lunch. All I can say is that the sky cleared up and gorgeous clouds resembling cotton balls started to appear. So, it was time to hit the beach. I mean, how can you get tired of walking Rio’s beaches?
Colorful boats at one end of Copacabana Beach
We ended up hanging around Arpoador Beach and its rocks. This beach is located between Copacabana and Ipanema. It is considered one of the best places to watch the sunset in Rio. Huge boulders stand at one side of the water. Hiking paths can be found all over the rocks, making the movement over them easy.
Arpoador Beach
Paths in Arpoador Beach Rocks
From this point, you have amazing views of Copacabana to the left and Ipanema to the right. If you look straight to the ocean, you can see several small islands popping from the vast ocean. The views from here should not be missed.
Ipanema Beach seen from Arpoador Rocks
View in Copacabana Direction from Arpoador Rocks
The scene over the rocks has a life of its own. There are families, tourists and even lovers enjoying the views and the happenings below.
View of far away islands from Arpoador Rocks
Couple hugging over Arpoador Rocks
This small strand of sand is also famous because of the surfing. Surfers get to the water jumping from the rocks. On shore, there are tons of photographers ready to take some shots with some impressive equipment (the camera lenses were huge and long). I am not a pro but was able to capture some good shots of guys riding the waves.
Surfer contemplating the waves in Arpoador Beach
Ready to get into the water
Riding a wave
He did it
Have you admired Rio de Janeiro from the famous Arpoador Rocks? Let me know in the comments section below.
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