Rocinha is a large favela located in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil with an estimated population of 180,000 people. It was originally settled in the 1920s by former slaves and workers from nearby coffee and sugar cane plantations. While many residents now have access to amenities like running water and electricity, challenges remain such as overcrowding, uncontrolled sewage flow that causes health issues, and the risk of diseases spreading rapidly due to the dense population. During major events like the World Cup, Rocinha sees tourism and economic benefits but underlying issues persist.

1. The challenges of living in
Rocinha Favela, Rio.
Rio De Janeiro
Amber

2. Where is Rocinha?
• Rocinha is located in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Rocinha has a
population of up to 180,000 (unofficial estimate). Due to its
location, the favela shares the same geographical space with
Rio's high society.
Rocinha
Favela

3. What is the history of the settlement?
• No one knows where and when the name Rocinha emerged,
but the most likely theory is that in the 1920s, in São Conrado,
where most of Rocinha is located, the majority of slaves and
former slaves, worked in the sugar cane fields and on coffee
plantations in the areas around where Rocinha is located
today.
Rocinha

4. What are the opportunities of living
in Rocinha?
• Majority have running water
• 99% have electricity
• 65% are part of Brazil’s new middle classes
• Average monthly income $240
• Secure police force
• Plenty of jobs such as barbers, tour guide and
domestic maids.

5. What are the challenges of living in
Rocinha?
• Overcrowded settlements
• Sanitation, swage flows down a large channel.
• This causes diseases illnesses and because the
sewage isn’t covered so its more likely that
you’ll catch something, also because it’s
overcrowded illnesses and diseases will spread
quicker.

6. What effects did the World Cup have
on Rocinha?
• Residents rented their houses out to get more
money.
• Many tourists were there so small businesses
got lots of money.
• Government promised to clean the Favela