Thousands of Olympics tourists will stay in these hostels that were built in the middle of Rio's slums - take a look inside

According to Reuters, Rio is expecting upwards of 500,000 tourists during the Olympics. That's much more than the International Olympic Committee-required 40,000 hotel rooms.

Advertisement

Hostels located in neighborhood slums known as favelas — which were once considered too dangerous to visit — are opening their doors to tourists looking for affordable lodging.

Advertisement

Most of these lodges are located in "pacified" favelas, neighborhoods that have been regulated by the Pacifying Police Unit. This unit was specifically created to drive out gangs and crime in 2008.

TripAdvisor reviewers have said that the Tiki Hostel in the Cantagalo favela is "charming" and warm", although past visitors do warn those considering a visit to "know what you're getting" ahead of time.

Advertisement

Rooms at the Tiki Hostel can be booked for as low as $38 a night this coming August.

Travelers on TripAdvisor raved about the view of the city from the Pousada Favela Cantagalo hostel.

Advertisement

Ligia is the owner of Pousada Favela Cantagalo.

Many of the rooms are humble, such as this one in the Pousada Favelinha hostel.

Advertisement

Room sizes can vary greatly.

The hallways can be just as small.

Advertisement

If you're lucky, you can snag a room that has a small balcony and hammock attached to it.

If tourists want to get cozy with the locals, some people are even renting out rooms in their homes, like this house in the Pereira da Silva favela.

Advertisement