Fair prices in Brasilien — what things really cost
What a taxi, a meal, or an activity should actually cost in Brasilien, by destination. Verified reference prices so you know the moment a quote is unfair.
In Rio de Janeiro
Full Rio de Janeiro guide ›Christ the Redeemer entry
Buy the combined transport and entry ticket from the official channels for the van or cog train. Prices rise at peak times, and buying on site can mean long waits.
$18–$30
Sugarloaf cable car
The return cable car ticket covers both stages. Book online to skip the ticket queue, and aim for late afternoon to catch the view in daylight and at sunset.
$24–$32
Airport taxi to the beach districts
Use the official taxi rank or a ride-hailing app rather than drivers approaching you inside. A metered or app fare to the Zona Sul beaches is reasonable; agree or check it first.
$18–$35
Single Metro ride
The metro is clean, safe and cheap, linking the centre with Copacabana and Ipanema. Buy a rechargeable card and top it up to avoid queues at each ride.
$1–$1.5
Mid-range restaurant meal
Eat a street back from the beachfront for better prices. Many places sell food by weight per kilo at lunch, which is good value if you serve yourself sensibly.
$8–$25
Caipirinha
Brazil's classic lime and cane-spirit cocktail is cheap at local bars and beach kiosks. Prices climb at tourist-facing venues, so check before ordering a round.
$2–$6
Fresh coconut water
Chilled coconut water from a beach kiosk is refreshing and cheap. Confirm the price before it is opened, as a few vendors quote more to visitors.
$1.5–$4
Reference prices in USD, from local sources and travelers. Actual prices vary by season, spot and bargaining.
Watch out for scams tooKnowing the fair price is half the battle — here is how travelers get overcharged in Brasilien, and how to avoid it.See scams in Brasilien ›