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Heritage & monuments

Valongo Wharf

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Valongo Wharf

Valongo Wharf

Located in the port district of Rio de Janeiro, this historic site marks the location where enslaved Africans first arrived on Brazilian soil during the 19th century. Visitors go here to see the remaining stone structures of the wharf and to reflect on the history of the transatlantic slave trade and its impact on the region.

Getting There

The site is situated in the port area, accessible from the city centre via taxi, ride-sharing apps, or public bus. Depending on traffic, the journey from the central district typically takes 10 to 20 minutes.

Visit Duration

Most visitors spend between 30 and 60 minutes at the site, as it is an open-air archaeological area intended for walking and contemplation.

When to Visit

It is advisable to visit during the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat, as there is limited shade. The site can become crowded during organized tours or commemorative events.

Nearby Attractions

The wharf is located within walking distance of several other landmarks in the port and city centre areas:

  • Museum of Tomorrow: 0.9km
  • Candelária Church: 1.1km
  • Presbyterian Cathedral of Rio de Janeiro: 1.4km
  • Old Cathedral of Rio de Janeiro: 1.4km

Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

Tickets & tours

Admission prices and opening hours change often, so we don't list them here. Check what's on sale and at what price below — booking ahead can cut the queue at some places.

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Stays near Valongo Wharf

Sorted by distance, walkable ones first. Distances are straight-line.

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Itineraries including this place

2 nights, 3 days

Rio de Janeiro 3-Day Itinerary (2 Nights)

A 3-day route through Rio de Janeiro grouped by daily travel distance for optimal sightseeing.

3 nights, 4 days

Rio de Janeiro 4-Day Itinerary (3 Nights)

A 4-day route through Rio de Janeiro grouped by daily travel distance for optimal sightseeing.

Good to visit alongside

Museum of Tomorrow

Museums & galleries

Museum of Tomorrow

A science museum on the Mauá Wharf waterfront in Rio de Janeiro, notable for its futuristic design by architect Santiago Calatrava. Since opening in 2015, it has become one of the city's iconic landmarks.

0.9 km away
Candelária Church

Temples & religious sites

Candelária Church

A historic Catholic church in Rio de Janeiro, where a Portuguese colonial Baroque exterior blends with a Neoclassical and Neo-Renaissance interior. Having been completed over many decades, it lets visitors take in a mix of architectural styles in a single building.

1.1 km away
Presbyterian Cathedral of Rio of Janeiro

Temples & religious sites

Presbyterian Cathedral of Rio of Janeiro

A historic Protestant church in Rio de Janeiro, known as Brazil's first Presbyterian church. Visitors can explore its modest yet historically significant chapel.

1.4 km away
Old Cathedral of Rio de Janeiro

Temples & religious sites

Old Cathedral of Rio de Janeiro

This former cathedral stands on Praça XV in downtown Rio de Janeiro and served as the city's seat of the bishopric from around 1808 until 1976. It's a historic building once used as a chapel for the Portuguese royal family and the Brazilian imperial family.

1.4 km away
Paço Imperial

Museums & galleries

Paço Imperial

A historic building in downtown Rio de Janeiro, built in the 18th century as the residence of the governors of colonial Brazil. It later served as the royal palace of the Portuguese king and then as the imperial palace during the Brazilian Empire, making it well worth a visit.

1.5 km away
Tiradentes Palace

Museums & galleries

Tiradentes Palace

Located in the Centro district of Rio de Janeiro next to the Paço Imperial, this building opened in 1926. It now serves as the seat of the Legislative Assembly of Rio de Janeiro State.

1.6 km away