Full coverage: 2016 Rio Olympics

The symbol of the Olympic games, the flame, has arrived in Rio de Janeiro, it will light the cauldron at the Maracana Stadium after months journeying through the host country. The torch was lit in the ancient home of the Games.

The journey began, where it always begins, in the serene, idyllic Greek sanctuary of Olympia. A ceremony, a ray of sunlight and a flame bound for Brazil.

It was brought to South America -- first class, we are told -- on board this chartered jet. One of the first Brazilians to receive it was the then President Dilma Rousseff.

These images, from May, a reminder that there's nothing eternal about Brazilian politics. She has since been removed from office, facing impeachment.

But she set the torch on its way, in the safe hands of Brazil's volleyball captain. Then began another journey, across this vast, diverse country.

It has been mostly enthusiastically welcomed. But not always. Some protesters say Brazil, in recession, shouldn't be hosting such an opulent event. Their target has been the flame itself.

It is believed to have gone out at least once. But in Rio a welcome party, something this city knows a thing or two about -- was prepared.

There we met Rebecca, a young badminton player. She was looking forward to playing her part in the world's longest relay race.

She said, "I have no words. I really can't describe it. I am soooo nervous!"

Rio's Mayor, who helped bring the games to this city, was the first to receive the torch.

And then Rebecca's big moment. A reminder of both the passion, and perhaps the chaos, of the Olympics in Brazil.

So the Olympic torch has finally made it to Rio, after a long, and eventful journey. It is now tantalizingly close to its destination.

On Friday it will light the Olympic cauldron. And the Games will begin.