Self-Guided Audio Tour – Santa Teresa: the Staircase

The self-guided audio tour of Santa Teresa offers an immersive exploration of the iconic Selaron Stairs in Rio de Janeiro. Narrated by an expert, the tour provides insights into the cultural significance of the vibrant mosaic staircase, created by the renowned Chilean artist Jorge Selarón. With offline access to maps and chapters, travelers can navigate the area at their own pace, making this a unique and enriching experience. But beyond the stairs, the tour also introduces visitors to the intriguing Museum of Chácara do Céu and the Museum of the Ruins, hinting at the deeper cultural treasures that await those who venture into this captivating neighborhood.

Key Points

• This self-guided audio tour allows visitors to explore the iconic Selaron Stairs and other attractions in Santa Teresa at their own pace.
• The tour provides narration by a local guide with insights into the area’s history, culture, and significance of landmarks like the Selaron Stairs.
• The tour includes offline access to chapters, maps, and tips for exploring Rio de Janeiro’s Santa Teresa neighborhood.
• Flexible and immersive experience, with no admission tickets or tour guide required, allowing for a personalized exploration.
• The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with service animals permitted, ensuring inclusivity for a wide range of travelers.

Overview of the Self-Guided Audio Tour

With this self-guided audio tour, visitors can explore the charming Santa Teresa neighborhood of Rio de Janeiro at their own pace.

The tour is narrated by a local and includes popular attractions like the Selaron Stairs, Museum of Chácara do Céu, Museum of the Ruins, and Morro do Desterro Monastery.

Travelers will learn about the area’s rich history and culture as they navigate the tour independently.

The audio guide provides offline access to all chapters and maps, as well as tips for exploring Rio de Janeiro.

While admission tickets aren’t included, the tour offers a flexible and immersive way to discover the unique character of Santa Teresa.

Tour Details

The self-guided audio tour begins at the iconic Escadaria Selarón, located on R. Manuel Carneiro in the Santa Teresa neighborhood.

Visitors will then make their way to the end point at the Museu da Chácara do Céu on R. Murtinho Nobre.

The tour is available from February 21, 2022 to July 25, 2025, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

While the tour provides offline access to all chapters and maps, as well as tips for exploring Rio, it doesn’t include admission tickets or a tour guide.

The self-guided experience is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are allowed.

Inclusions

The self-guided audio tour includes offline access to all chapters and maps, as well as tips for exploring Rio de Janeiro.

Snacks, a smartphone, and headsets are provided to enhance the experience. However, admission tickets aren’t included, and there won’t be a tour guide to meet you.

This allows you to explore the Santa Teresa neighborhood at your own pace, without the constraints of a traditional group tour.

The tour is designed to be accessible, with wheelchair and stroller access, as well as accommodations for service animals and infant seats.

Accessibility and Participation

Two aspects of the self-guided audio tour‘s accessibility and participation are highlighted.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, stroller accessible, and near public transportation, making it suitable for visitors with mobility needs. Plus, service animals are allowed, and infant seats are available, accommodating a range of travelers.

The tour is also considered a private experience, allowing participants to explore the neighborhood at their own pace without a tour guide. Most travelers can participate, making this self-guided audio tour an inclusive option for exploring the rich history and culture of Santa Teresa.

Booking and Cancellation

Booking the self-guided audio tour of Santa Teresa is straightforward, with prices starting from $6.99 per person.

The tour offers a lowest price guarantee, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts. Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and a reserve now, pay later option is offered.

The tour is accessible to wheelchair users, stroller users, and those relying on public transportation. Service animals are allowed, and infant seats are available.

Most travelers can participate, as this is a private tour for your group only.

Explore the Selaron Stairs

Commonly, visitors begin the self-guided audio tour at the iconic Selaron Stairs, a colorful mosaic staircase that has become a symbol of Santa Teresa. The stairs feature over 2,000 vibrant tiles from more than 60 countries, creating a mesmerizing display of color and culture. As you ascend the 215 steps, the audio guide provides fascinating insights into the history and significance of this public art masterpiece, sharing the story of its creator, Chilean artist Jorge Selarón.

Description	Fact
Location	R. Manuel Carneiro, Santa Teresa, Rio de Janeiro
Tiles	Over 2,000 tiles from more than 60 countries
Steps	215 steps
Creator	Chilean artist Jorge Selarón

Discover the Museum of Chácara Do Céu

After exploring the vibrant Selaron Stairs, the self-guided audio tour leads visitors to the Museum of Chácara do Céu.

This charming museum showcases the history and culture of the Santa Teresa neighborhood.

Visitors can expect to discover:

1. Stunning 18th-century architecture and lush gardens that transport them back in time.
2. An impressive collection of Brazilian art, including works by renowned painters and sculptors.
3. Fascinating insights into the daily lives and traditions of the neighborhood’s residents.

The museum’s audio guide provides a captivating narrative, allowing guests to enjoy the rich heritage of this historic Rio de Janeiro district.

Visit the Museum of the Ruins

Departing the Museum of Chácara do Céu, the self-guided audio tour now leads visitors to the Museum of the Ruins.

The museum explores the history and remnants of an 18th-century mansion that once stood in the neighborhood. Visitors can wander through the open-air grounds, examining the crumbling walls and foundations that remain.

The audio guide provides insights into the site’s past, describing how the mansion fell into ruin and the artifacts uncovered during archaeological excavations.

With its atmospheric ambiance and educational content, the Museum of the Ruins offers a unique window into Santa Teresa’s heritage.

After exploring the site, the tour continues up Morro do Desterro, guiding guests to the final destination, the Morro do Desterro Monastery.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Languages Are the Audio Tours Available In?

The audio tours are available in multiple languages, enabling travelers from around the world to explore the Santa Teresa neighborhood and learn about its rich history and culture at their own pace.

Can I Access the Tour Content on My Own Device?

You can access the tour content on your own device. The self-guided audio tour provides offline access to all chapters and maps, so you can explore the neighborhood at your own pace using your personal smartphone or tablet.

Are There Any Discounts for Students or Seniors?

Yes, the tour offers discounts for students and seniors. Customers can save up to 20% off the regular price by providing valid student or senior identification when booking the self-guided audio tour.

How Long Does the Full Tour Take to Complete?

The full self-guided audio tour takes approximately 2-3 hours to complete. Visitors can explore the neighborhood at their own pace, learning about the rich history and culture through the narration provided.

Can I Take Breaks and Resume the Tour Later?

Yes, you can take breaks and resume the tour later. The audio tour is designed to be flexible, allowing you to explore at your own pace and pick up where you left off.

Recap

The self-guided audio tour of Santa Teresa offers an immersive experience exploring the iconic Selaron Stairs. With offline access to maps and narration, travelers can discover the cultural significance of the vibrant mosaic at their own pace. The tour also provides the opportunity to visit the Museum of Chácara Do Céu and the Museum of the Ruins, further enriching the exploration of Rio de Janeiro’s rich heritage.