RIO DE JANEIRO
Best Gay Saunas, Darkrooms and Cruising Bars 2026
Guide
Best Gay Saunas, Darkrooms and Cruising Bars 2026
🔥 Looking to spice things up in Rio?
Here are the hottest spots for after-dark adventures, from steamy bars to full-on saunas. Be smart, be safe, and enjoy responsibly.
Want a night that fits your style? Get local advice tailored to you.
DÉDALOS RIO
Glória
Dédalos arrived in Rio de Janeiro in May 2026 with a soft opening, bringing the energy of São Paulo’s famous 24-hour cruising club to the city. Since August, it has been operating fully 24/7, quickly becoming one of Rio’s busiest and most talked-about spots. Wednesdays are especially packed, thanks to free drinks that keep the crowd and energy flowing. Visit the website before you go to claim exclusive discount coupons.
RIO G SPA
Ipanema
Located in the heart of Ipanema’s gay district, this is a luxurious cruising spa that attracts a more tourist-heavy crowd due to its higher prices. You’ll find massages, drinks, saunas (wet & dry), cabins, a video room, gym, and darkroom. Busy after beach hours, especially Friday to Sunday. They enforce a zero drug policy and don’t allow rentboys—so be discreet if you’re carrying anything.
CASA PRETA
Various locations
Casa Preta hosts regular bareback parties on Wednesdays and Sundays at a secret location disclosed only to guests. The organizers describe it as a secret party for men centered on Black visibility and representation, while welcoming everyone. Contact them directly for the latest details and access information. Message them directly or follow them on X for the latest event info. And yes, discounts available for XXL.
SEXY ROSE
Cinelândia
Rua Álvaro Alvim, 37
A true hidden gem—more underground than online. Sexy Rose is part sex shop, part secret cruising spot. For around R$20, you get access to private cabins with TVs playing both gay and straight porn, plus two darkrooms. It’s busiest during weekday lunch hours and after work (starting around 5 PM), attracting closeted guys who work downtown.
TAURUS BAR
Lapa
Open Thursday to Monday – check social media for hours. This used to be Rio’s busiest cruising bar, right in the heart of Lapa. Since Dédalo arrived in Rio, the venue has become noticeably quieter. Still, it remains an interesting option for those who enjoy live shows featuring interactive male performers. They frequently get their Instagram account taken down, so the best way to check their schedule is through their website.
SAUNA CHUPPS
Lapa
A newer addition to Rio’s scene, Chupps is an all-day, all-night cruising sauna with a laid-back crowd and affordable prices. Expect a mix of people, from partygoers to regulars. They host themed nights and events (often in partnership with Casa Preta), so check their Instagram for schedules. Best time to go: weekend nights.
SB SAUNA
Botafogo
This is one of Rio’s largest sauna spaces, with 650 square meters spread over three floors. Includes dry and wet saunas, cabins, a cinema room, darkroom, and smoking area. While it’s not always packed, it’s worth a shot—especially on theme nights like “Bears,” “Black,” or “Twinks” in partnership with Hornet. Follow their IG for updates.
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Explore our editor’s picks for LGBTQ-friendly hotels in Ipanema, Leblon and beyond.
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