Rio : discover the best gay bar and gay beach in Ipanema

Meet Márcio and Claudio! A couple who love Brazil and Rio de Janeiro to the bone, and are pleased to welcome and assist guests in discovering the Marvelous City. They love nature and animals (they have two cats). They love beaches, cinema and cycling. Oh! And adore “caipirinhas”!

What makes Rio a favorite gay destination?

We love Rio! There are open-minded and friendly people everywhere; handsome, tattooed, muscular, tanned men pouring down the streets and the beaches; and a huge gay community in the city with tons of fun that you will not miss!

What is the best gay event that takes place in Rio?

Carnival (next event in 2017 from Feb 25 to Mar 1st). During Carnival, there are so many parties, in clubs or on the streets. "Banda de Ipanema" is the gayest bloco (Bloco is a street carnival party).   

What is your favorite gay establishment to grab a bite for lunch? a nice dinner?

Felice Caffé, in the Ipanema neighborhood.

Best gay bar for a cheap beer?

Look for "barraca" (kiosk) on the beach, they all sell beer or caipirinhas (good and inexpensive) . You can also rent a beach chair or a tent there.

Best gay bar for a refreshing cocktail?

Felice Caffé

Which famous gay person is from Rio?

Jean Wyllys - First congressman elected by openly defending LGBT rights.  

Ready to go dancing--what is the best gay dance club?

On Saturday, go to The Week in Rio or São Paulo. This is probably the best gay dance club in the world!!!  On a weekday, go to Galeria Café in Ipanema (Wed, Thur, Fri).

Which gay bar offers the best happy hour on a Wednesday?

"Tô nem aí" Bar in Ipanema. 

Where to start a gay tour in Rio?

"Farme de Amoedo", in Ipanema - both the street and the beach. The gay beach also has this name.

Best place to socialize with the local gay community?

Beach, in Ipanema from Farme de Amoedo street to Posto 10 (coqueirão).

Best place to be surrounded by the local gays?

Ipanema and Copacabana are the most famous gay neighborhoods. 

In the evening, Lapa, Rio's bohemian neighborhood, welcomes everybody, including gays and transsexuals.  

How gay-friendly is Rio?

Rio is very gay-friendly. Walking on the streets in Copacanaba or Ipanema, it is very common to see gay couples holding hands.

A gay place for brunch on weekends?

Cafeína Café, R. Farme de Amoedo, 43 , Ipanema.  

What is gay life like in Rio?

Mostly it happens on the beach.

What are your favourite gay venues in Rio?

- Gay beach - Farme de Amoedo

- The Week

- Felice Caffé