Rio de Janeiro Ferris Wheel Ticket – Yup Star

Imagine soaring 88 meters above Rio de Janeiro, gazing out at some of the world’s most iconic sights—the Sugar Loaf, Christ the Redeemer, and the bustling Guanabara Bay. For just $10.85 per person, you can do exactly that with the Rio Star Ferris Wheel, Latin America’s first and one of the city’s most captivating attractions. The entire experience lasts around 20 minutes, but with the option to go around as many times as you like, it’s a great value for the price. Located conveniently near AquaRio and the Museum of Tomorrow, this ride is a perfect addition to your day exploring Porto Maravilha.

We love how close it is to other major sites, making it easy to combine with visits to the Sea Aquarium or the nearby cultural attractions. The spectacular views are a highlight, giving you a sweeping perspective of Rio’s unique landscapes. The inclusion of snacks, souvenirs, and the possibility for multiple rides adds to the overall appeal. However, one thing to keep in mind is that some reviews mention issues with the cabin’s visibility and maintenance, which is worth considering when planning your visit.

This experience appeals most to travelers who appreciate panoramic vistas and want a relaxed, scenic break amidst Rio’s vibrant cityscape. Families, first-time visitors, or anyone keen on capturing photos of the city’s famous landmarks will find this a worthwhile stop. If you’re after a quick, memorable view of Rio, this ride fits the bill perfectly.

Key Points

• Impressive height at 88 meters offers unparalleled views of Rio de Janeiro.
• Flexible re-boarding allows you to go around multiple times, maximizing your scenic experience.
• Close proximity to other major attractions like AquaRio and the Museum of Tomorrow makes it easy to combine activities.
• Price point of just under $11 makes it a very accessible, affordable sightseeing option.
• Authentic experience with local vendors, live samba, and vibrant surroundings add cultural flavor.
• Some reviews mention issues with cabin visibility and maintenance, so check conditions before your ride.

An In-Depth Look at the Rio Star Ferris Wheel Experience

The Location: Porto Maravilha and Nearby Attractions

The Rio Star Ferris Wheel is situated in Porto Maravilha, a lively waterfront area. Its close proximity to AquaRio (the city’s major aquarium) and the Museum of Tomorrow makes it an ideal quick stop for those exploring Rio’s modern side. The ride begins at Av. Rodrigues Alves, 455, a location that’s well served by public transportation, ensuring easy access without the hassle of renting a car.

This central spot also hosts a variety of local food stalls and live music during certain times, which we loved because it lets you soak in some authentic local culture after your ride. One reviewer even mentioned a samba fair happening nearby, with tasty food and live musicians, creating a festive atmosphere that perfectly complements the scenic views from the wheel.

The Ride Itself: What to Expect

The Ferris Wheel features 54 cabins, each capable of holding up to 8 people. Once you’re aboard, the ride lasts approximately 20 minutes per lap. You can choose to go around as many times as you like—just re-queue after each lap if you’re craving more spectacular views.

From the top, you’ll see Rio’s most famous sights: the iconic Christ the Redeemer, the Sugar Loaf Mountain, and the expansive Guanabara Bay. You’ll also glimpse the Rio-Niterói Bridge, the bustling Samba City, and the futuristic Museum of Tomorrow. The perspective is truly breathtaking and offers enough time to really take it in—something we appreciated as it’s not just a quick spin but a genuine chance to enjoy Rio from above.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

Most visitors find the views to be the main highlight. Several reviews mention the scenery being “exceptional” or “dazzling,” providing perfect opportunities for memorable photos. One reviewer, Maria, remarked, “Nos gustó mucho porque justo había una feria de samba en la salida de la rueda, vendían comida muy rica y había músico en vivo, nos encantó!”

However, some guests have voiced concerns. A few found the cabins too warm, with inadequate air conditioning, and others complained about foggy or fogged-up windows, which hindered their ability to enjoy the panoramic views. One review was blunt: “Impressionante, vocês não entregam o que se propõe. Os vidros estão embaçados quase que na sua totalidade. Não consegue ter uma vista panorâmica.” This suggests that cabin quality can vary and might impact your experience.

Another common theme involved maintenance issues—at least one visitor reported the ride being closed due to repairs on the day of their visit, and delays in getting refunds. While rare, such incidents remind us that planning for weather and technical reliability is wise.

Value for Money

For under $12, this ride offers a spectacular vantage point of Rio, which is often included in more expensive city tours. When you compare this to other attractions that might cost significantly more, it’s a good deal if the cabins are in good condition and the weather is clear.

The option to re-ride multiple times enhances the experience, especially if you want to capture different lighting conditions or simply enjoy the view at your own pace. Plus, the availability of snacks and souvenirs at the site adds a relaxed, fun atmosphere.

Practical Tips for Visiting

• Arrive early to avoid long lines and ensure enough time for multiple laps.
• Check the weather forecast—clear days will give you the best views.
• If capturing photos is important, consider bringing a camera with a good zoom, but be aware that some reviews mention cabins with acrylic, not glass, which may affect photo clarity.
• Be prepared for possible warm cabins, and consider bringing a light jacket if you tend to get cold.
• Book tickets in advance—most people seem to do so about 3 weeks ahead, and it can save waiting time.
• Remember, the ride operates from 10 am to 6 pm daily, with seasonal variations.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This ride is ideal for first-time visitors, families, or couples wanting an affordable, scenic break from their busy sightseeing schedule. It’s especially suited for those who love photo opportunities and want a unique perspective of Rio’s skyline. If you’re someone who values authentic local atmosphere and isn’t overly concerned about cabin comfort or perfect visibility, you’ll love the vibrant setting and panoramic views.

Conversely, if you’re prone to motion sickness or expect pristine panoramic windows, you might want to verify cabin conditions beforehand or consider alternative viewpoints.

How This Tour Compares to Other Rio Attractions

Compared to other major Rio sites like Christ the Redeemer or Sugar Loaf, the Ferris Wheel is more relaxed and offers a different perspective. It’s less about awe-inspiring statues and more about photographic vistas and enjoying the city’s scale from above.

While some reviews express dissatisfaction with the cabin’s clarity and maintenance, many say the breathtaking views make up for these shortcomings. It’s a fun, low-cost way to see Rio’s landscape, especially if paired with nearby attractions.

Final Thoughts

The Rio de Janeiro Ferris Wheel from Yup Star provides an accessible, scenic, and enjoyable way to see the city from a different angle. For just a few dollars, you get a 20-minute ride with stunning vistas, and the option to go around as many times as you like makes it even more worthwhile.

We recommend this experience for those who prioritize viewing Rio’s iconic sights in a relaxed setting and are comfortable with the possibility of cabin imperfections. It’s perfect for a family outing, a romantic pause, or a photo-rich sightseeing break.

While it’s not without its flaws—occasional maintenance issues and some cabin visibility problems—the overall value and experience are impressive. Remember to arrive early, dress appropriately, and enjoy the breathtaking vistas that make Rio a city like no other.

FAQ

Is the ticket for the Ferris Wheel included in this experience?
Yes, the ticket price covers your ride on the Ferris Wheel, with the option to go around multiple times during your visit.

How long does the ride last?
Each lap takes approximately 20 minutes, but you’re free to re-queue and go around again.

What are the opening hours?
The Ferris Wheel operates daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with seasonal variations possible.

Can I cancel my booking if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made more than 24 hours in advance. Refunds are issued if you cancel at least a day before your scheduled ride.

Are there any restrictions?
Most travelers can participate. Service animals are allowed, and public transportation nearby makes access straightforward.

What should I bring for the best experience?
Bring your camera or phone, a light jacket for the cabins, and arrive early to enjoy multiple rides and avoid crowds.

Are there any reviews about the cabin’s quality?
Some visitors mention that the acrylic windows can be foggy or affect photo clarity. Cabin conditions may vary, so keep expectations flexible.

Will the views be clear on a cloudy day?
Visibility depends on weather conditions; clear days provide the best panoramic experience. Always check the forecast before your visit.

This Ferris Wheel experience is a simple but memorable way to see Rio de Janeiro’s famous scenery. It’s a perfect addition to your itinerary if you’re looking for an affordable, scenic, and authentic experience that captures the spirit and beauty of Rio from above.