Brett
7 years on Airbnb
Amazing stay the sunrise every morning is incredible! Apartment was beautiful, electric bike was a must, so useful! Also great host responds very quickly and helped out with anything I asked for
Every review on this page is a real Airbnb review, copied verbatim from our listing at airbnb.com/rooms/660245855151514963. Reviews originally written in Portuguese, German, or another language are shown translated to English — marked at the bottom of each card, just like Airbnb does.
7 years on Airbnb
Amazing stay the sunrise every morning is incredible! Apartment was beautiful, electric bike was a must, so useful! Also great host responds very quickly and helped out with anything I asked for
Los Angeles, California
Bruno made our first trip to Brazil top tier. The space looks exactly as the photos present. The favela felt extremely safe and the locals were so kind and welcoming — it felt like home away from home. What made the stay most special was Bruno's great communication and incredible team that was accommodating to our every wish. It was truly a full service experience.
11 years on Airbnb
We went as a couple and the apartment delivers 110% — it's beautiful and everything is super new, super clean, and communication with Bruno was excellent; he always attended to us promptly in the best way possible. The building is super close to the entrance of the community, we never needed a moto-taxi, we walked up and down every time. The community has everything — markets, pharmacies, restaurants — and the residents are super welcoming and respectful. We drove up in our own car; you can drive up with peace of mind. It was a bit tricky to find parking, but once I did, I left it there for 4 days with no issues. In summary: the apartment is beautiful, the view incredible, and Bruno is excellent. We can only say thank you — we'll be back without a doubt!
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7 years on Airbnb
Perfect! Bruno was an incredibly kind person from the start — he shared all the info clearly and even gave us several useful tips including moto-taxi contacts, places to order food and more. The apartment is exactly like the photos: very beautiful, fully renovated, with gorgeous decor and a super cozy feel. The view is surreal, absolutely breathtaking. The bathtub next to the bed is a separate charm and made all the difference. The location surprises too: access is easy, about 250 meters from the entrance of the hill, and parking is easy (I parked safely without trouble). It's also very close to the beach and Leblon, which makes everything even more special. Highly recommend — I'll definitely be back soon. Two thumbs up!
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8 years on Airbnb
Anyone who really wants to get to know Brazil should book this apartment in Vidigal. It is very safe and the people there are very kind. Bruno replied faster than I could read and was able to help me with everything. 10/10
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10 years on Airbnb
A 10/10 experience and one of my favourite Airbnb stays of all! The apartment was beautiful, had everything you could need for a short to mid stay and the views are unmatched. Even in overcast weather the atmosphere was so unique. Vidigal felt very safe — during the day it was a short 15–20 minute walk down to Leblon and at night Bruno had recommended friendly and reliable drivers / moto-taxi contacts. Bruno was the best host ever! So friendly and responsive, had daily recommendations and local suggestions for what to do, and would answer all the many questions I had haha. He even came over to drop off a flashlight when I needed one. I would happily come back for longer and recommend this listing highly ★★★★★ Obrigada!
Torrance, California
Honestly, such a great Airbnb if you want to experience the local “real” side of Brasil. Lots of people, busy streets. If you're a light sleeper, prob not the place for you. But for us, it was 100% worth it. Our host was super attentive and friendly. The view from the Airbnb was amazing!!! I think it was one of our favorite airbnbs in Rio so far :) thank you for your hospitality!!
4 years on Airbnb
Incredible view! Amazing and super safe place. I came alone — you can come without fear, it's safe. I came solo and had full support from the host — he gave me contacts for pizza, restaurants, and moto-taxi. Top marks! I took a moto-taxi to tour the favela and he took several photos of me to post. Hop on a moto-taxi and go to the rooftop bar. Among other tourist spots he knows and takes you to — incredible! Food delivery apps work here too, and if you want to grocery-shop and cook, no problem.
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5 years on Airbnb
Bruno is excellent and very helpful — incredibly gracious throughout every day of our stay. Communication was great; he always responded instantly and gave full support. The view is simply incredible, I can't even describe such perfection. I felt completely at ease and safe — markets, pharmacies, entertainment, and transport all extremely close. The transfer was pleasant and we were warmly welcomed. I will definitely return and highly recommend the stay. The Vidigal community is simply wonderful — so much energy, and the people are very welcoming. I heard great music, ate wonderful food — it was incredible.
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Lichtensteig, Switzerland
An absolutely incredible five-star stay! This was truly the best stay of our lives. Bruno was an incredible host — super helpful, always available, and communicated perfectly through Airbnb. The apartment was impeccable, cozy, and had everything we needed. Even though it's located in a favela, we felt completely safe — actually safer than in many other areas of Rio. The people were friendly, the atmosphere was relaxed, and it felt like a real, authentic part of the city. At night, you see locals walking around, music in the background, and that warm, lively vibe that made the experience unforgettable. Thank you, Bruno, for making us feel so welcome. We will definitely be back — 100% recommended for anyone visiting Rio. Vidigal is the best! Muito obrigado.
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5 years on Airbnb
We would return to Vidigal any time. Before our vacation we were a bit skeptical, but after 1–2 days at the place we felt more comfortable there than in Copacabana! I highly recommend this Airbnb to everyone.
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2 years on Airbnb
First time in Rio — and WITHOUT A DOUBT the comfort will make us return many more times! I came to explore the city and fell in love with the house, I didn't want to leave! Breathtaking view! Great neighborhood, great restaurants, a well-mannered community. I'll admit I was scared at first because of what some people say, since it's inside Vidigal. But once you arrive, you realize it's more fun and much safer here than in any luxury neighborhood! Bruno's place will definitely be our home base every time we come to Rio! Not to mention all the attention he gives and his availability to help with EVERYTHING. Bruno made our questions so easy — he was basically our free guide! And the listed price is NOTHING compared to what you'll find here. Come without fear! They live up to the price and everything they promise. And the bathtub is real, OK? I almost brought it home in my suitcase! Totally worth the experience!
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Sarandí Grande, Uruguay
Everything was impeccable! From the cleanliness to the neighborhood, Bruno 10/10! A beautiful experience getting to know Vidigal! Highly recommended!
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5 years on Airbnb
In love with this place! Incredible apartment, wonderful location, peaceful neighborhood, and Bruno is an excellent host — always attentive. Highly recommend.
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2 years on Airbnb
Top place, I enjoyed a lot… Bruno was super kind and super polite… I loved it and will definitely be back.
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5 years on Airbnb
Communication with Bruno was easy, the place is incredible! I'll definitely return.
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9 years on Airbnb
Stayed 4 nights — I had planned to head to Ipanema, but I wish I had booked 8 days here. Bruno arranged another hotel for me, which was also very good. I can't express enough how good this place was — location, apartment was perfect, the scene, a realistic visit to Rio from this spot. Loved it. Thank you Bruno and Gustavo! I'll be recommending this. 1000%
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2 years on Airbnb
Place with a beautiful view. Everything organized. Loved it — I'll be back soon.
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St. Louis, Missouri
Loved my stay here and will definitely book again next time I'm in Rio! The few neighbors I met in the building were very nice and the food spots I tried were delicious. Even though I was alone, I always felt safe. Bruno was very quick to respond — any question or issue I had, he was fast to fix it or find the solution!
7 years on Airbnb
Wonderful apartment, everything working perfectly. The welcome from Bruno and his family was great, always recommending restaurants, markets, and so on. The location is easy to reach and leave, plus close to the beaches — we walked every time. I loved spending this time at Bruno's place and would recommend it to anyone!
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5 years on Airbnb
Bruno is a very good host. I'd always recommend him. Very friendly and cool. The place is also incredible — the community is very friendly and safe. The house is beautiful and the view from the bathtub is 10/10 incredible. I'd come back.
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Greensboro, North Carolina
Great place to stay — especially if you want to see a real favela that's also very safe and beautiful. Bruno was more than helpful with communication, check-in, and local recommendations. I'd stay here again any time, any day!
Fairburn, Georgia
What an incredible space in Vidigal. The area has such a welcoming community. We felt right at home in Bruno's space. The views are incredible. You can walk or take a scooter to some of the rooftop bars for even more incredible views of the city, the ocean, and the mountain.
Santiago, Chile
It was incredible to stay here — we loved every second. The apartment is so beautiful and we were so sad we couldn't stay longer! Everything is super clean and the view is wonderful!
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3 years on Airbnb
Simply incredible place! I went with my partner and we found it super cozy, with a privileged view and shops nearby. We'll definitely be back!
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3 years on Airbnb
Wonderful place, very welcoming people! Everything top-notch just like the photos — we stayed out late walking around. Totally worth it. Saying goodbye was the sad part, but we'll be back many more times! I'll definitely recommend the place and the house. Thank you Bruno, congratulations.
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Belém, Brazil
A super beautiful and comfortable place. The decor makes you feel the real Rio de Janeiro. Quick to walk down the hill. Right out front there's a self-service restaurant with delicious food. Simply loved it — I'll return soon. Thank you Bruno.
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1 year on Airbnb
Breathtaking and beautiful.
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10 years on Airbnb
Although I was a bit skeptical about the situation at first, Vidigal turned out to be a super-cool area. Uber tends not to drive into the area, probably because it's not easy to drive up there — there are moto-taxis for that. Had so much fun there. Cheers!
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Washington, D.C.
Bruno was a GREAT host! He was so quick to respond to every message. Truly a beautiful Airbnb with unmatched views. It was our first time in Rio and we felt so safe where we stayed. The bottom of Vidigal was a transportation hub with taxis, vans, and city buses at our disposal. One thing I'd note: be prepared to walk. Where the apartment is located, it was sometimes hard to find transportation willing to pick us up and drop us at the door. The walk wasn't that bad. Overall, even considering the transportation, I'd definitely book Bruno's Airbnb again!
1 year on Airbnb
It was a great stay!
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New York, New York
Staying in Vidigal was a beautiful experience. The apartment is gorgeous! Clean, with beautiful views from every window. The streets are lively and safe. Honestly, it was the only place in Rio where I walked around with my phone in my hand. Moto-taxis are the best way to get around Vidigal — they're always passing in front of the building. Make sure to have cash in small denominations, since they rarely cost more than 15 reais (15 to Leblon). On days when you just want to relax, you have everything you need within a block (grocery stores, bars, restaurants, pharmacy, etc.). Bruno is an incredible host and always responded quickly! Bruno's dad picked me up from my other accommodations and was wonderful to talk with and gave great recommendations. I'll definitely return.
Lakewood, Ohio
First of all — what an incredible and beautiful location, in the safest favela in Rio, with stunning Atlantic views. This favela is more than vibrant; it was quiet when we arrived at 2 a.m. on a Monday, but it's super lively. The apartment is a perfect base for a couple who wants to cook, eat and relax between visits to the beaches, to the center of Rio, and to the streets of Vidigal. The neighbors are immediately friendly and helpful from the moment of eye contact. We didn't even feel the need to lock the door of our apartment. And Bruno is such an incredible host — he was quick to move us and help us switch to a different building around the block (he facilitated the Airbnb payment, carried our luggage up the street and even helped up the stairs). He was very patient with my poor Portuguese. Bruno is a real friend. He makes me feel I have to come visit again as soon as possible.
9 years on Airbnb
The stay was wonderful, the space is very beautiful with a phenomenal view. Bruno was always quick to help with anything I needed. I'll definitely be back many more times.
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7 years on Airbnb
Rio is incredible, and through this apartment's window it somehow becomes even more spectacular! Seeing sunrise and the most beautiful sunset in the whole city — no doubt about it! The apartment is meticulously decorated with great taste and sophistication. Cozy, modern, functional. The view from the bathtub is also unbelievable. I'm grateful for the opportunity of living Vidigal in such a special place. The host is impeccable, always kind and attentive. The building caretaker Seu Eduardo is a giant-hearted guy always available to show you the best places and walks in the community and even accompany you. Thank you for making this trip to Rio so special and meaningful. God bless and keep lighting up everyone striving to provide the best stay in the city! I hope to have the chance to come back soon and stay again in this little place that won my whole heart.
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Quebec, Canada
Great apartment, would love to return. Bruno was very friendly and made check-in and checkout easy.
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2 years on Airbnb
Bruno was a great host, easily reachable and always helped as best he could whenever I needed assistance. Highly recommended!
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Candia, New Hampshire
We had a wonderful week here. The neighborhood is very safe and everything we needed was a short walk away. The apartment's views are great, especially at sunrise. Check-in was easy. We used the transfer service so we were driven straight to the door. Bruno is very helpful and communicative and made our stay smooth.
San Francisco, California
This place and this neighborhood have a great energy and are worth the experience. You can see the ocean from your bed on one side and the granite peak from the terrace or shower on the other. You'll have to walk up and down or take a moto-taxi from the main street for about 800 meters, as Uber generally doesn't drive into the steeper parts. Would definitely stay again.
7 years on Airbnb
The place is exactly like the photos. Bruno always available to answer questions, made me feel super at home, gave several tips for places to shop and grab a snack. And the view — incredible! You can take so many killer photos. Bathtub in the bedroom with that view — you could stay in there for hours. I'd come back and stay here without a doubt, and recommend it.
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8 years on Airbnb
I really enjoyed my stay at Bruno's. The apartment exceeded my expectations and felt like home. The view is incomparable. The location will demolish any preconceptions you have about "favelas", if you have any: I felt safe the entire time and enjoyed meeting new people in this lively environment. Bruno is a great host: friendly and quick to respond. It was a privilege to stay here and I'd recommend this place to anyone looking for an authentic experience in Rio de Janeiro.
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Calgary, Canada
Loved my stay at Bruno's place in Vidigal — incredible views, incredible people, very easy to access with the market and other food options nearby. It felt very safe and the people in the area were very helpful. A great option for anyone wanting a real experience!
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9 years on Airbnb
I'd like to thank Bruno for all the help and kindness! Super grateful! I went with my boyfriend and we felt safe the whole time. The apartment is absurdly wonderful and has everything you need. The neighborhood is also a unique experience I'd recommend to everyone. Soaking in the bathtub looking at that view is the cherry on top. I'll definitely be back and recommend it.
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Westbrook, Connecticut
Bruno's place was colorful, clean, and close enough to the entrance of Vidigal to walk. The A/C worked great, the views were out of this world, and he stocked enough essentials that I could cook without trouble. Bruno was flexible with check-in/checkout and even had a laundry service available on request. He was quick to reply to my messages/requests and even connected me with a jiu-jitsu gym in the favela so I could train. I don't have words to describe how wonderful my experience at Bruno's luxury apartment was. Hope to return soon!
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New York, New York
The place has an excellent view, better than the photos. Very spacious. Great ventilation. Comfortable apartment. Good mattress. Good water pressure. Good A/C. Good location close to the beaches. Plenty of markets. VERY SAFE. Don't worry. Great neighbors / neighborhood. It's on a mountain, but not far from a walk, and you can always take a moto up — $4 reais — also very safe. Bruno is very helpful, always available and a cool guy. Enjoy!
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Los Angeles, California
Bruno was very communicative and welcoming. The Airbnb had everything I needed, including a charger adapter (you'll need one here if you come from the US) to charge my phone. The neighborhood was authentic, lively and extremely safe — I felt safe even walking up the streets at 2 a.m. Honestly it's safer than Ipanema/Leblon/Copacabana, where I had to be much more cautious. Moto-taxi is a must and you'll take it to get to the main beaches. The moto drivers are also trustworthy. Don't take random taxis anywhere in Rio. Loved my stay and totally recommend.
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10 years on Airbnb
Bruno… thank you! You kept me safe, took care of me. You were kind and welcoming. I recommend using one of your taxi contacts — they're incredible people. Russo — to go up the mountain and walk through the favela. The Vidigal community is great. Thank you for having me!
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4 years on Airbnb
Bruno's place was exactly as described. It was definitely an experience and we are happy we were able to get a glimpse of favela life. We also felt safe and comfortable in the apartment. If you are open to new experiences, check out his place.
Frankfurt, Germany
I stayed at Bruno's for 1 week, for the first time I chose to stay in Vidigal. The neighborhood is safe day and night, and you can reach the apartment by foot from Praça do Vidigal, or take a moto-taxi. Supermarkets etc also within walking distance, which was great. The apartment is nice, and you have a great view over Vidigal and the sea. Definitely would recommend staying at Bruno's, thank you very much for being such a great host & see you next time.
10 years on Airbnb
Incredible apartment with an even more incredible view. Bruno was super friendly and helpful and answered every question we had. 7 minutes on foot from a private (FREE) beach shared with the 5-star Sheraton hotel… we'll be back!
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4 years on Airbnb
The stay at Bruno's apartment was sensational, everything as advertised. Check-in and checkout are easy and communication with Bruno is always top-notch — he's always willing to help, from local tips to specific questions. Everything nearby: just walk up or down a bit and you'll find snacks, pizza, convenience stores, markets, pharmacy, laundry, etc. The community is extremely safe and welcoming. The people are polite and outgoing, willing to help — it's impossible not to come back to Vidigal. The view from the apartment is beautiful. Super recommended.
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9 years on Airbnb
Everything was wonderful! Bruno is an excellent host. The views from every room of the apartment are exceptional and the interior design is beautiful. The place is very quiet and close to shops like markets and so on. We highly recommend!
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9 years on Airbnb
Everything was incredible! The place is exactly like the photo, the bathtub and the view are a show in themselves. Clean, with the location right by the main entrance. Everything went smoothly. Super recommend!
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7 years on Airbnb
Great location and the community is very peaceful. The apartment is well located, close to a market and a fruit-and-veg shop. We drove our own vehicle and it was fine to park on the street; at times we were lucky enough to find a spot right by the building. The decor is beautiful and the structure very nice. And the ocean view — spectacular. Bruno was always extremely cordial and solved every question — very welcoming. I highly recommend the stay with him.
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5 years on Airbnb
Very good stay — don't let the word "Favela" scare you, because honestly it's only at the entrance of the favela that I was discreetly putting my phone and bag away. Very pleasant view over the ocean and over the favela — we'll be happy to return! Obviously it's a favela, so you have to go up to reach the accommodation, but the moto-taxis are at the entrance and offer to take you up for 10 reais!
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5 years on Airbnb
Everything was perfect; the apartment was exactly as described. It's not far from the main square — you can walk. Vidigal is my favorite place to stay when I come to Rio. Well, after the neighborhoods of Leblon, Copacabana or Ipanema — though I prefer Ipanema. In Vidigal I feel at home. And there are extraordinary accommodations like this one. Thank you, Bruno, and all the VDG community, for the exemplary hospitality.
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Houston, Texas
Great area! Don't let the word Favela scare you. Vidigal is recommended as a must-visit area of Rio. It's the safest favela in the city and probably even safer than Copacabana or Ipanema.
5 years on Airbnb
We had a great week at Bruno's apartment. He is super helpful in providing recommendations and responds quickly. Bruno's father was very kind — picked us up at the airport and drove us around the city by taxi. I highly recommend this place if you're going to Rio.
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3 years on Airbnb
Great stay!
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14 years on Airbnb
The place is enchanting… I was in love from check-in to check-out. Honestly, I'd move into this house easily. I was welcomed with treats, communication was very good with Bruno and Fernanda — all my questions were answered. You have no idea how it feels to see the sunset from that wonderful bathtub and wake up in the morning watching the sun rise over the sea… it's enchanting. Folks… I highly recommend it and I want to come back many times. *One point of attention — it's a community, and not a silent place, so if you can sleep with some noise you'll be perfect.
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10 years on Airbnb
Perfect!
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10 years on Airbnb
We spent six nights in the apartment — an unforgettable experience. The view is spectacular! We loved exploring Vidigal and having a drink at the little bar run by a friendly local, in front of the building. You can easily grab taxis at the bottom of Vidigal to get around. Some guests agree it's a bit of a climb at night, but either way walking is fine. The pizzeria near the building is very good, with an authentic and pleasant atmosphere. For a more "bohemian" vibe, you should take a moto up to Bar da Laje to hear music with a magnificent view. In one word: perfect stay!
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8 years on Airbnb
I had an absolutely incredible stay at this place. Bruno was super helpful and communicated the entire time. My arrival in Rio was at 6 a.m. and it was my fault for not double-checking check-in times — so instead of making me wait outside or elsewhere until 1 p.m., Bruno let me stay and relax in another apartment, which was very much needed after a travel day. The location was incredible, a short walk to the main square of Vidigal, where you can easily order an Uber or taxi to anywhere in the city. I felt extremely safe in Vidigal. I've also stayed in Rocinha, which is bigger. Vidigal has a more welcoming atmosphere and isn't as chaotic as Rocinha, though it's still buzzing and vibrant. To any foreigner on the fence about staying in a favela: trust me, it's much safer than the touristy areas of Rio. Thank you, Bruno, for the wonderful stay and great hospitality.
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10 years on Airbnb
What an incredible location and experience! Would book again in a heartbeat. Simply incredible! Bruno is also a great guy — super friendly and helpful. 100% recommended!
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6 years on Airbnb
Everything exactly as advertised, super clean and organized. We loved the experience — Bruno was super attentive and quick to respond. Thank you.
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10 years on Airbnb
The stay was sensational. Everything in the listing matches the reality of the house. Check-in is simple and easy, and communication with Bruno (the host) is always constant and fast. He's ready to help with anything — from local tips to specific questions. The view is a show in itself. Enjoying the bathtub with the mountain and the sea in the background is something no other place can give you. Everything is near the house — just walk up or down a bit and you'll find snacks, pizza, convenience stores, market, pharmacy, and whatever else you need. Don't be afraid of the community — this is the second time I've stayed in the favela and I always felt safer than in Copacabana. The residents, the shops, the life in this place is intense and unique. The people are polite and outgoing — impossible to leave Vidigal without a smile on your face. Bonus tip: if you want to really know the community, do an immersive tour with a local — look for "Russo — Vidigal Tours" — no doubt the best guide to experience the upper part of the hill safely and interactively. If you're unsure about staying here, don't miss the chance. You'll have a unique experience no hotel can give you.
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7 years on Airbnb
Loved the place! Well located, extremely clean, well equipped, wonderful bathtub! Host always available. I'll definitely be back.
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Basel, Switzerland
We really enjoyed our days in Vidigal! The apartment is very well located; you reach the main street where you can easily find buses, taxis, Ubers, in a few minutes on foot or by moto-taxi. At all times we felt safe and welcomed by the people who live there. The atmosphere in Vidigal is cheerful, friendly and lively! Away from the better-known Rio neighborhoods you get a different side of this city that we really appreciated. The apartment is truly great and one of a kind — plenty of space on 2 floors plus a cozy rooftop terrace with a wonderful view. The bedroom also has a beautiful sea view and a very comfortable bed. The lower floor has a living room and kitchen. Bruno is a perfect host, always reachable and very helpful. We're very enthusiastic about this apartment and Vidigal — we'll definitely come back in the future.
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4 years on Airbnb
Bruno was extremely accommodating in everything. He gave us local recommendations and was extremely kind and proactive. The apartment is impeccable. I'll certainly be back more times.
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6 years on Airbnb
One of the most incredible experiences I've ever had. I went alone, but I'd recommend it for a passionate couple! Everything flawless! Will return.
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8 years on Airbnb
We were picked up right at the airport and taken to the apartment. We had a great time! Thank you so much!
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