Originally Posted by
carsnoceans
$250 is a bit much for my taste. I'd prefer to take a cab and maybe just visit one of the two spots. If I was with a group, it could be justified but not alone.
If you don't mind a (small) group of strangers I'd still suggest a guided tour. Those tours are advertised at the beaches but can also be arranged in advance or by the hotel (might be more expensive though).
Dia no Rio (day in rio) is what you are looking for. Those operated tours pick you up at the hotel. Expect to pay between 55 to 75 USD for it.
I.e.
http://www.riodejaneironow.com/rioenglish.htm (UM DIA NO RIO 1 CLASSIC) or
http://w2rio.tur.br/pr/passeios/dia-no-rio.html or
http://www.rioparadisetour.com.br
Since I can't recommend a specific tour/guide you might just want to have a look at the links above or at google. I