JO&JOE Rio — Our Hidden Jungle Retreat in the Heart of the City

There are places you visit once and never forget…
And then there are places you visit three times — and they start to feel like home.

That’s exactly what JO&JOE Rio de Janeiro has become for us.
A hidden paradise tucked inside Cosme Velho, where nature, design and tranquility create an escape that feels almost magical.

Every time we arrive, we get that same comforting sensation:

“I’m still in Rio… but it feels like I left the city completely.”


🌿 First Impressions: When the world suddenly slows down

The moment you walk in, your senses shift.
The Atlantic Forest rises around you, birds fill the air, the restored old houses in neo-colonial style add charm — and suddenly everything feels calmer.

On all three of our visits, we had the exact same reaction:
a deep breath, a small smile, and a feeling of “finally… peace.”

JO&JOE isn’t just a place to sleep.
It’s a state of mind.


🛏️ Rooms: Cozy, creative and full of personality

One thing we love is how each room feels different.
There are:

  • comfortable private rooms
  • shared dorms for social or budget travelers
  • balconies facing the forest
  • bright windows that let nature inside

In every room we stayed in, the silence, comfort and greenery outside made us feel completely recharged.


🏊 Pools: The soul of the hotel

If there’s one place where JO&JOE truly shines, it’s the pool area.
There are three pools — including a heated one embraced by the forest.

We often spend entire afternoons there:

  • reading
  • talking
  • napping
  • swimming
  • enjoying a drink
  • simply doing nothing

It feels like a nature spa without the stiffness.
Just peace, warmth and quiet.


🍳 Breakfast: Simple, tasty and open to everyone

Breakfast is one of our favorite moments at JO&JOE.
It’s delicious, colorful, full of variety, and — the best part — open to the public.

Even if you’re not staying at the hotel, you can come and enjoy a slow, beautiful morning surrounded by nature.


🦟 Tip from experience: bring mosquito repellent

Being wrapped in nature is incredible — but mosquitoes do show up.
Bring repellent and you’ll enjoy every space comfortably.


🚗 Getting there: Uber is the way to go

Parking is limited, really limited.
On our first visit, we learned that the hard way.

Now we always go by:

  • Uber
  • taxi
  • ride apps

Much easier, stress-free, and honestly the best option.


🌺 Location: The magic of Beco do Boticário

Surrounded by history, greenery and restored architecture, Beco do Boticário feels like stepping into another era.
It’s intimate, charming and incredibly photogenic.

Despite the peaceful atmosphere, it’s close to:

  • Christ the Redeemer
  • Corcovado Train
  • Laranjeiras
  • Santa Teresa

But to be honest?
Most days we end up wanting to stay at the hotel — because the vibe is just too good.


💛 Why we came back three times — and would come back again

Each visit meant something different:

  • a romantic escape
  • a personal retreat
  • a break from chaos
  • a moment to reconnect with ourselves

And JO&JOE always delivered exactly what we needed at that moment.

That’s the magic:
the hotel adapts to your mood.
It nourishes whatever you’re seeking.

And that’s why we will always return.


Why we love JO&JOE

  • stunning architecture
  • amazing pools
  • breakfast open to the public
  • relaxed social vibe
  • unique location
  • cozy, stylish rooms
  • real feeling of disconnecting from the city

It’s a place to rest, to reconnect, to breathe.
A place to remember.

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