Before Rio’s rich started to live in gated towerblocks, they built wonderful mansions in Santa Teresa – a hilly area near the city centre. To travel through Santa Teresa take the “bondinho” or tram – a rickety yellow metal carriage that winds its way up to the beginning of the rainforest.
Take the metro to Cinelandia Station, go to Rua Senador Dantas, then walk along to Rua Profesor Lelio Gama – the tram station is on this street. Price: US$0.40