Rio de Janeiro was chosen for the second consecutive time as the main destination in South America in sports tourism. The announcement was made on Wednesday (10/20), in London, by the World Travel Awards, a global initiative that recognizes excellence in travel and tourism. The title came after research carried out by the institution with the main travel, tourism and hospitality brands. All votes were cast by industry professionals and the public, with the nominee receiving the highest number of votes in each nominated category.
According to the minister of Tourism, Gilson Machado Neto, the recognition of Rio de Janeiro is deserved, as the destination is rich in sporting tourist activities. “The capital has already hosted two major events in world sport, such as the Olympics and two World Cups, and it did them very well. There is nothing fairer than receiving this title, since in addition to natural and cultural beauties, Rio de Janeiro also has numerous options for those who travel in search of the sport”, he said.
In addition to international sporting events, the capital of Rio de Janeiro hosts the only Olympic golf course in the world and the only one in Latin America at an international level. The city also has numerous options for tourists looking for destinations to practice some kind of sport. Hang gliding in Pedra Bonita, surfing, windsurfing and yachting in Baia de Guanabara, Kitesurfing in Barra da Tijuca, are some of the options. Travelers can also take trails on the Dois Irmãos hill and on Transcarioca (the largest urban trail in the country, with about 180km), marathons, beach volleyball and footvolley.
We must also mention the world famous Maracanã, in Rio de Janeiro (RJ). The stadium has already hosted two World Cup finals and the Pan American and Olympic games. Recently, the venue returned with its tour that includes a visit to one of the stadium’s locker rooms, decorated with shirts from clubs that compete in the first division of the Brazilian Championship. In addition, visitors can check the pitch, sit on one of the reserve benches and also learn a little more about the great players who have marked history, such as Pelé, Zico and Mané Garrincha.
