Rio de Janeiro is a rich and rapidly developing city, but it is also a city of high inequality, as is evidenced by its main slum, Rocinha Favela. Situated on the southwestern hills of the city, this 0.8-square-mile (2.1-square-kilometer) neighborhood is one of Brazil’s largest and most densely populated favelas. Take a guided tour of the neighborhood to learn about its proud history and to support the charities that provide essential social services to the area.

The district began to develop in the 1940s, when people migrating to Rio could not afford the rising rents of the expanding city. They illegally settled in the forested hills, and Rocinha Favela was born. Since it was an illegal settlement, for many years Rocinha Favela received no services from the municipal government. As a result, to this day residents provide many services, like transportation and mail delivery.

Rocinha Favela’s appearance is its main attraction. The shacks and buildings are so tightly packed and yet so broadly spread out across the hillside that the slum makes a spectacular sight. Many of the buildings are also painted in vibrant colors and look like toy blocks from afar, making the area a favorite with photographers. Take a walk along the main boulevard of Estrada da Gavéa to admire the amazing street art painted throughout the neighborhood.

Guided tours through the neighborhood are available through several operators. Learn the details of Rocinha Favela’s history and see inside some residences. The best tour operators donate a large portion of their proceeds to charities that support Rocinha Favela residents.

While Rocinha Favela is commonly held to be a hub of Rio de Janeiro drug crime, the neighborhood is generally safer than people think. Check for news about the area before visiting, however, as periodic protests and police crackdowns can make the area unsafe.

Rocinha Favela is located in the hills just west of Ipanema Beach. Most of the neighborhood is only navigable on foot, so take a bus to a point just south of the neighborhood then enter it on foot.