Sustainability Stories: JO&JOE Rio – discover this eco-warrior hostel in the urban jungle

At the foot of Rio de Janeiro’s famous Corcovado mountain, where monkeys swing through palm trees and samba drifts through the air, you’ll find JO&JOE Rio – a hostel that proves that big-city energy and sustainability get along just fine.

Built along six restored colonial buildings in the historic Largo do Boticario, this open house is more than pools, caipirinhas and sunsets under Christ the Redeemer (though yeah, all that’s there).

It’s also an environmentally friendly spot to stay – winning the Eco-Warrior Award in 2025 HOSCARs! Just check out the 2026 HOSCARs awards, a list of the world’s best hostels curated by YOU!

Play, party and chill in Rio

And let’s be real, it’s still Rio. Sustainability doesn’t mean bedtime at 10. JO&JOE Rio is a sprawling place to play, party and chill with multiple bars, hammocks, terraces, DJ areas and three pools in a colourful jungle setting.

There are DJ nights by the pool, samba under the stars, and events where your reusable cup gets you a free drink. They’re truly a part of the local community: when they celebrated their 1 year anniversary, over 1,500 people joined the 2 day party!

The team believes sustainability should feel good, not like a lecture. And maybe that’s why their guests describe it best: “it feels like a jungle hideout inside the city.” And: “You leave more relaxed, more connected – and maybe a bit sunburnt.”

From abandoned landmark to eco-hub

For 20 years, this colonial gem sat empty. Now, it’s alive again – not just with music, events and travellers, but with purpose.

“We’re proud to be part of a generation that takes care of our planet,” says General Manager Bianca Chaves. “It all starts here, from the building itself to how we welcome people.”

JO&JOE Rio runs on smart energy systems that automatically control lighting, cooling, and water tanks to save resources around the clock. They track energy and water consumption daily, cutting waste and costs at the same time.

The team is proudly 100% plastic-free, swapping single-use plastics for biodegradable and reusable options like eco cups, paper straws, and silicone baking mats in the kitchen.

They walk the talk

🪴 Motion sensors in common areas = lights only when needed.

💡 Clean energy from renewable sources via a local partner.

🧽 80% of cleaning products carry eco-certification.

♻️ All solid and liquid waste handled by accredited environmental associations.

🫵🏻 Staff is trained in local history, safety, and sustainability, blending old heritage with new responsibility.

And because sustainability isn’t just what you use but how you connect, the team regularly runs events so travellers can join beach clean-ups and tours of Tijuca Forest, the world’s largest urban rainforest.

“No one should miss the train up to Corcovado mountain, it’s just a few-minute walk from the hostel doorstep. When the breathtaking views of the city open up after taking the train up a steep hill in the jungle, you’ll truly get to experience Rio, ” Bianca tells us.

Here eco-conscious doesn’t mean quiet or clinical. Book your stay at JO&JOE Rio to experience the colour, sound and laughter. And a bit of chaos. It’s hostel life with heart: where sustainability meets samba, and where every connection (and caipirinha) counts.