Best Gay Saunas, Darkrooms and Cruising Bars 2026
Where to go for gay cruising in Rio
🔥 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.
Prefer an event on a specific date rather than a permanent venue? Compare Rio’s gay sex parties and their different formats.
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DÉDALOS RIO
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.
For the background to its opening and the atmosphere of different nights, read our closer look at Dédalos Rio.
RIO G SPA
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
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.
BLACK CAT
Black Cat is a cruising bar in Copacabana with a more tourist-heavy crowd and electronic music. The darkroom usually opens around 2 AM, so plan for a late night if that’s what you’re coming for. It remains an option for those staying in Copacabana, although the crowd has thinned considerably since Dédalos opened in Rio. Check Instagram or X for the latest schedule before going.
SEXY ROSE
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.
SAUNA CHUPPS
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.
SAUNA SB
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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