Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Rio Surf & Nature experience: Ride waves, learn samba and protect the coast
Dive deep into Rio’s authentic surf culture with this immersive journey. This experience blends adrenaline with purpose, offering surf lessons, yoga sessions, and hiking trails at Macumba Beach. Beyond the waves, the group will engage in impactful environmental actions like beach clean-ups and native planting. Connect with locals through samba classes and enjoy the laid-back lifestyle of Rio’s coastline while creating genuine bonds with fellow explorers.
- Marina
- Worldpackers host since Aug/2021
- Reserve your spot now from US$ 521.85
Starting from
US$ 1,491 for 8 days (US$ 186.38/day)
Check dates & prices
Join 68 worldpackers who've loved having this experience
Available dates
Apr/11/2026 Apr/18/2026
- Available
Learn to Surf With Us in BRAZIL!
Hiiii!! I’m Bea from Trip BFF 💚🇧🇷 Born and raised in Brazil, and traveling the world since I can remember!!! I’m calling in ALL travelers who want more than a trip, travelers who want to experience the true BRAZILIAN experience, love nature, has good energy, and is ready to have the trip of YOUR LIFE!!! You should travel with me if you want a host who actually lives this lifestyle and knows Brazil far beyond the guides. I want to share the Brazil I know & grew up in. The hidden spots, the wild & exotic beauty, the culture, the surfing, the freedom. My hope is that this trip will become something amazing and unforgettable for all of us: new friendships, meaningful experiences, and moments you’ll look back on and think, “I’m SO glad I went"
Show more- Reserve your spot now from US$ 521.85
Starting from
US$ 1,491
Requirements
- Intermediate English or Intermediate Portuguese
- Swimming Skills
- Swimming Skills
- Over 18 years old
Jun/14/2026 Jun/21/2026
- Available
BRAZIL 2026 IS CALLING! 📣🏄♀️💃
Hi, I’m Michelle, a raw adventure backpacker who’s spent the last 3 years exploring the world — hitchhiking across Central Asia, living with nomads in Kyrgyzstan, exploring shipwrecks in Uzbekistan, sleeping in caves, living in a remote Himalayan village in Nepal, and yes… even getting chased by a tiger there! Now I’m bringing all that energy to my very first girls’ trip in Brazil. We’ll spend the week surfing, doing sunset yoga, dancing samba, and enjoying the beaches together, making friends and memories along the way. This is a trip for girls who want adventure, connection, and a week full of unforgettable experiences. ✨ Join the girls’ adventure and start counting down to an epic week! 🌊💃🧘♀️
Show more- Reserve your spot now from US$ 391.85
Starting from
US$ 1,491
US$ 1,691
-12%
Requirements
- Women only
- Intermediate English or Intermediate Portuguese
- Swimming Skills
- Swimming Skills
- Over 18 years old
Jun/21/2026 Jun/28/2026
- Available
Learn to Surf With Us in Brazil!
Hi, I’m Lili 🤍 I grew up moving around the world, constantly starting over in new places and cultures. Because of that, I know what it feels like to arrive somewhere unfamiliar - and how powerful it can be to turn strangers into friends. Over the years, meeting new people in new places has become one of the most beautiful and meaningful parts of my life. Creating spaces where real connection can happen has turned into my passion. That’s why I’m so excited to host this trip to Brazil. I’m calling in curious, open-hearted people who love being active and genuinely connected - not just to a place, but to the people they experience it with. This trip is about slowing down while still feeling fully alive: surf sessions, immersing ourselves in a new culture, spending time in nature, laughing a lot, and sharing moments that stay with us long after the trip ends. If you’re craving adventure with meaningful human connection, and a reminder of how good life can feel when you’re fully present - I’d love for you to be part of this journey! Até logo no Brasil, Lili <3
Show more- Reserve your spot now from US$ 521.85
Starting from
US$ 1,491
Requirements
- Intermediate English or Intermediate Portuguese
- Swimming Skills
- Swimming Skills
- Over 18 years old
Itinerary
Day 1
Afternoon
2:00 PM – Check-in & Settle In
Arrival time! Travelers get checked in, meet the team, and settle into their accommodation to start the journey.
3:00 PM – Lunch
The group gathers for a welcome lunch to refuel after the journey.
4:30 PM – Golden Hour Hike: Pedra do Pontal
Kick off the trip by chasing the best view in town. The group treks up to the iconic Pedra do Pontal to watch the sunset over the coastline—the perfect "welcome to Rio" moment. Note: Activities may be rescheduled based on weather and nature.
Evening
7:00 PM – Dinner (Free Choice)
Time to explore local flavors. Travelers can choose from nearby spots like pizzerias or local restaurants, or cook together in the shared kitchen (meal not included).
8:00 PM – Icebreaker Night: Beer Pong
After dinner, it’s time to bond. Join a high-energy Beer Pong session at the surf club to break the ice and get to know the fellow adventurers.
Day 2
Morning
7:00 AM – Morning Zen: Yoga Experience
Start the day with intention. A bilingual instructor leads a yoga flow to stretch and prep the body for the days ahead.
9:00 AM – Breakfast
A hearty breakfast is served at the accommodation to get everyone ready for the waves.
10:30 AM – Surf Lesson
Time to hit the water! The group dives into their first surf lesson with professional instructors and included equipment. Note: Activities may be rescheduled based on weather and nature.
Afternoon
1:00 PM – Lunch
A well-deserved lunch break to recharge energy levels.
2:30 PM – The Viral View: SUP & Pedra do Telégrafo
The adventure continues with a Stand-Up Paddle tour in Guaratiba, followed by a hike to the famous Pedra do Telégrafo for that classic cliff-hanging photo. Note: Activities may be rescheduled based on weather and nature.
Evening
7:00 PM – Dinner (Free Choice)
Free evening to grab a bite at a local spot or whip up something in the kitchen (meal not included).
8:00 PM – Social Night
A relaxed activity to hang out and strengthen connections with the group.
Day 3
Morning
6:30 AM – Early Bird Surf Lesson
Catch the best morning conditions with an early surf session to improve those skills. Note: Activities may be rescheduled based on weather and nature.
9:00 AM – Breakfast
Post-surf fuel to keep the vibes high.
10:00 AM – Hidden Gem Trek: Piscina do Secreto
The group goes off the beaten path to find the "Secret Pool," a stunning natural swimming hole formed by rocks, perfect for chilling. Note: Activities may be rescheduled based on weather and nature.
Afternoon
12:00 PM – Lunch
Mid-day meal with the crew.
1:00 PM – Free Afternoon
A perfect opportunity to discover local landmarks, visit museums, or explore the iconic beaches.
Evening
7:00 PM – Rio Rhythm: Caipirinha & Samba Class
Immerse yourself in local culture. Learn to mix the perfect Caipirinha and then master the Samba steps in a certified workshop.
8:00 PM – Dinner (Free Choice)
Enjoy a meal out or cook a group dinner (meal not included).
Day 4
Morning
7:00 AM – Live Like a Local: Footvolley
Experience the true Carioca lifestyle with a morning game of Footvolley on the sand. Note: Activities may be rescheduled based on weather and nature.
9:00 AM – Breakfast
Morning fuel before the next adventure.
10:00 AM – Eco-Hike: Prainha Beach
A scenic walk to Prainha, an ecological sanctuary beach surrounded by lush green mountains and pristine nature. Note: Activities may be rescheduled based on weather and nature.
Afternoon
12:00 PM – Lunch
Lunch time to recharge.
3:30 PM – Afternoon Surf Lesson
Back to the ocean for another guided session to refine technique and catch more waves. Note: Activities may be rescheduled based on weather and nature.
Evening
7:00 PM – Dinner (Free Choice)
Free time for dinner in the neighborhood (meal not included).
8:00 PM – Mic Drop: Karaoke Night
The night gets loud! Grab the mic and belt out favorite anthems during a fun, judgment-free Karaoke session.
Day 5
Morning
9:00 AM – Breakfast
A slower start to the morning with a delicious breakfast.
10:00 AM – Concrete Surfing: Surf Skate
Take the surf skills to the pavement. This workshop focuses on balance and flow on land, translating directly to better surfing. Note: Activities may be rescheduled based on weather and nature.
Afternoon
12:00 PM – Lunch
Mid-day break.
1:00 PM – Free Flow Afternoon
The afternoon is yours. Explore the area, relax by the pool, or book an extra massage.
Evening
7:00 PM – Dinner (Free Choice)
Evening meal at leisure (meal not included).
8:00 PM – Social Activity
Another chance to hang out and enjoy the community vibe.
Day 6
Morning
7:00 AM – Eco-Impact: Coastal Preservation
Travel with purpose. The group participates in a beach clean-up, planting action, or park visit to help preserve the local ecosystem. Note: Activities may be rescheduled based on weather and nature.
9:00 AM – Breakfast
A rewarding breakfast after doing good for the planet.
10:00 AM – Relaxation Time
Free time to unwind, read a book, or just nap after an active week.
Afternoon
12:00 PM – Lunch
Lunch with the group.
3:30 PM – Afternoon Surf Lesson
Get ready to get wet! Enjoy a hands-on lesson in the ocean and experience the thrill of surfing. Note: Activities may be rescheduled based on weather and nature.
Evening
7:00 PM – Dinner (Free Choice)
Dinner on your own or with friends (meal not included).
8:00 PM – Social Night
Chill evening vibes with fellow travelers.
Day 7
Morning
9:00 AM – Breakfast
Morning energy boost.
10:30 AM – The Final Swell: Surf Lesson
Hit the waves one last time to put all the week's training into practice. Note: Activities may be rescheduled based on weather and nature.
Afternoon
12:00 PM – Lunch
Last group lunch of the trip.
1:00 PM – Free Afternoon
Soak up the sun or revisit favorite spots in the neighborhood.
Evening
7:00 PM – Dinner (Free Choice)
Final dinner to enjoy the local cuisine (meal not included).
8:00 PM – Farewell: Small Riders Night
A special gathering to celebrate the week, the progress made, and the memories created.
Day 8
Morning
9:00 AM – Breakfast
Share a final breakfast, swap contacts, and say goodbyes.
11:00 AM – Check-out
Time to pack up and head to the next destination, fully charged with Rio energy.
What's included
What's not included
Requirements
- Intermediate English or Intermediate Portuguese
- Swimming Skills
- Over 18 years old
Activities
See the activities that will make your trip into an epic adventure.
Learning opportunities
Contribute to your project and make a positive impact while developing new skills.
Beach Footvolley
Play the classic Rio sport on the sand and live like a local.
Samba & Sips Class
Master local dance steps and learn to mix the perfect Caipirinha.
Surf Skate Workshop
Perfect your balance and flow on land to improve your surfing.
Eco-Impact Action
Clean the beach or plant natives to help protect the coastline.
Immersion activities
Get to know the local culture and have an authentic travel experience with activities included in your itinerary.
Golden Hour Hike
Trek to Pedra do Pontal’s peak for a breathtaking sunset view.
Secret Pool Trek
Hike to a hidden natural pool formed by rocks and nature.
Beer Pong Tournament
Break the ice and bond with the crew over a high-energy game.
Eco-Beach Hike
Walk to Prainha, a stunning ecological sanctuary by the sea.
Morning Yoga Flow
Stretch, breathe, and prep your body for the waves with a pro.
Karaoke Night
Grab the mic and belt out your favorite anthems with friends.
Guided Surf Lesson
Catch waves with bilingual coaches. Board and gear included.
SUP & Cliff Hike
Paddle in calm waters and hike to the viral Telegraph Stone.
Farewell Party
Celebrate the week’s memories with a final social gathering.
Extra activities
Additional activities for you to enjoy this adventure even more in your free time.
Relaxing Massage
Unwind with a professional massage to soothe sore muscles.
$50 avg
Board Rental
Rent a board to practice freely during your downtime.
$14-$24
Extra Surf Skate
Book an extra land session to refine your technique.
$30 avg
Extra Surf Lesson
Level up faster with an additional private coaching session.
$35 avg
Videos
Thomas
France
My stay at the hostel was wonderful, full of great encounters, the team integrated me straight away and helped me a lot to improve my Portuguese. The work there is not very complicated and allows you to meet and talk with people ! Life there is very pleasant. There is a dormitory for volunteers, toilets, shower, changing room and kitchen everything is clean and modern. And the hostel is as close as possible to the ocean, it is literally in front. It is very pleasant to be able to surf there every day ! In short, I recommend this experience to everyone !
3 months ago
Vinicius
Brazil
Truly the hostel, the people the nature and everything every single day is a whole now day of life. If you like this feeling to be alive and great full there is the perfect place to connect with people who vibrates in the same energy. All my special thanks to the team who made everything possible! You guys are amazing human beings!
5 months ago
Raïssa
France, Metropolitan
Really good experience!!
5 months ago
Veronika
Germany
My favorite volunteering experience ever! I had such a great time at the hostel! I loved the overall vibe of the hostel. The team is super nice and was very welcoming. The tasks were super easy and I was very flexible with the activities I had to organize. The working hours were also less than stated on Worldpackers. I'd love to come back to Recreio when going back to Rio. I already miss it!
6 months ago
Ruby
United Kingdom
Volunteering at the hostel has truly been one of the best travel experiences i've ever had. I ended up extending and staying for 2 months. I instantly felt so welcomed by the whole team as well as the town of Recreio itself! The vibes here are unmatched, surf, nature, beaches, hikes, whilst still having Rio city close by! The activities planner role was so fun and rewarding. The hours are flexible and allow you a lot of free time. I was able to surf almost every day, the perks of volunteering here are very good and I would come back to the hostel again without hesitation!
9 months ago
Angel
Austria
Oh what a wonderful experience it was!!!! I was there as an activity volunteer and it was the best time! Thank you to Yali and the whole the hostel team 🫶🏼 it was like family and I met the most wonderful people - everyone like minded and supportive!
12 months ago
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Accommodation options
Surf Lodge Quarters
Travelers will stay in a vibrant beachfront property featuring mixed-gender shared dormitories with up to 15 people per dorm. The rooms are equipped with air conditioning, personal lamps, and private lockers for security (bring a padlock!). Amenities include shared bathrooms with hot showers (separated by gender), a refreshing swimming pool to cool off after surf sessions, and a communal kitchen. The vibe is social and perfect for making new connections while living steps away from the waves.
- Internet (over 100 Mbps)
- Hot water showers
- Use our equipped kitchen
- Lockers
Meals
Fuel up for active days with both daily breakfast and lunch provided at the on-site restaurant. Mornings start with grilled bread rolls, fresh seasonal fruits, scrambled eggs, granola, and traditional homemade mate tea or coffee. A hearty lunch follows the morning activities to recharge the group for the rest of the day. The kitchen team caters to vegan, vegetarian, and lactose-free dietary needs. For dinner, travelers are free to explore nearby eateries or utilize the shared kitchen to taste more local cuisine.
Arrival orientation
Arrival is stress-free with a pre-arranged pickup included in the experience. A driver will welcome travelers at Rio de Janeiro/Galeão International Airport (GIG), holding a sign for easy identification. From there, the group will be driven directly to the accommodation in Recreio dos Bandeirantes. Upon arrival, a check-in briefing provides the schedule and details for the week ahead, ensuring everyone is ready for the adventure.
About the project
Founded six years ago on the shores of Macumba Beach, this project is more than just a stay—it's a hub for surf culture and genuine connection. With a dedicated team of over 50 staff members, the hosts are committed to sustainable development and preserving the local ecosystem. Their mission is to change the history of the coastline by combining tourism with environmental care, inviting travelers to breathe in the surf lifestyle while making a tangible difference.
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Top host
- This host receives a lot of worldpackers and has a high average rating.
- Languages spoken in this project
- English, Portuguese, Spanish
- How long does it exist
- 7 years
- Worldpackers host
- Since Aug/2021
About the destination
The experience is based in Recreio dos Bandeirantes, a laid-back coastal neighborhood in Rio de Janeiro known for its consistent waves and preserved nature. Situated right by Macumba Beach, the area offers a perfect escape from the city's chaos, surrounded by lush sandbanks and ecological reserves. It’s a surfer’s sanctuary that blends urban convenience with wild landscapes, offering easy access to hiking trails, natural pools, and the vibrant local beach culture.
Impact & Purpose
The main goal is to combat beach pollution and preserve the fragile sandbank ecosystem. Travelers play a crucial role, as their presence drives the project's ability to maintain a 3,800+ sqm adopted area. The group contributes to tangible results, including the removal of tons of glass and thousands of cigarette butts, ensuring the coastline remains pristine for future generations.
This host contributes to Sustainable Development Goals
Good health and well-being
ravelers engage with Good Health and Well-being by immersing themselves in the local surf culture. The experience promotes physical activity and mental wellness through surfing, yoga, and deep connection with nature, inspiring a healthy lifestyle.
Life below water
Contributing to Life Below Water, travelers help preserve the marine ecosystem. By replanting native sandbank vegetation and removing toxic waste from the shore, the group helps protect the habitat for local marine life and coastal biodiversity.
Climate action
To support Climate Action, the group actively participates in hands-on sustainability efforts. This includes organized beach clean-ups and environmental education, directly combating waste and protecting the coastal landscape from degradation.
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