Gays and Lesbians

Rio de Janeiro is the gay and lesbians capital of Brazil. There is no law against Homosexuality in Brazil and during Carnival, thousands of expatriate brazilian and "gringos" gays fly in for the festivities. Outside of Carnival, the gays and lesbians scene is active but markedly less visible than in cities such as San Francisco, Paris and Sydney.

Ipanema is the most "out" area of Rio de Janeiro. Teixeira melo street is a major gathering spot for gays and lesbians and the beaches of Copacabana (near Copacabana Palace Hotel) and Ipanema have gays and lesbians sections near Farme de Amoedo Street (Ipanema).

You may hear or read the acronym GLS, particularity in the entertainment sections of newspapers and magazines. It stands for Gays, Lesbians and Sympathizers and basiclly indicates that anyone with an open mind is welcome. In general, the scene is much more integrated than elsewhere and most parties involve a pretty mixed crowd.

If you're not exactly a day person, nightlife is teeming with possibilities. Have dinner around 8 or 9 at world-class restaurants, and go for a round-up of gay bars and lounges in Ipanema or Copacabana. Around midnight move on to the dance clubs. In addition to the mandatory go-go boys, you will enjoy live shows, drag performances, and other specials. Circuit parties are a perfect alternative for weekend nights.

Cartoon by Ziraldo. All rights reserved. Todos os direitos reservados.Except for the gay baths, of course, lesbians are welcome at most gay clubs and parties. If you feel more comfortable in a girls-only environment, there's a lesbian dance club open every night of the week For variety sample the special lesbian nights at other clubs and lounges.

The party planner will help you decide what to do every night of the week. With the maps of gay attractions in Ipanema, Copacabana, and Arpoador-Posto 6 you will find your way around just like a local. For your convenience they also include hotels and flats, and you may check rates and request your booking online.

And then there's Carnival with the legendary Samba Parade with all the hot boys, gay balls, and street festivities where hordes of drag queens literally take over the streets! New Year's is another major event. Two million people from all over the world celebrate at Copacabana Beach, with live music shows, and an incredible fireworks festival at midnight.

So much to do and see... Wouldn't it be perfect to have a local willing to help with the basics, save some bucks on your hotel bill, and stay out of trouble, show you around, even let you in on some juicy gossip? That's exactly what we've been doing since 1996! Click your way around for loads of insider's tips, facts, photos, maps, phones, addresses, travel services, and much more.