Tijuca National Park
Tijuca Forest
A rainforest in the middle of a city of more than six million people. Tijuca Forest covers the mountains above Rio, with waterfalls, viewpoints and fresh air just minutes from the beaches.
- Location
- Tijuca National Park
- Area
- About 40 km²
- Replanted
- From 1861
- Ecosystem
- Atlantic Forest
A forest planted by hand
In the 1800s, coffee farms had cleared much of these hillsides, and Rio began to run short of water. In 1861, Emperor Pedro II ordered the area to be reforested. Major Manuel Gomes Archer led the work, and over the following years tens of thousands of trees were planted.
Today the forest is part of Tijuca National Park, which also includes Corcovado and Christ the Redeemer. It is one of the largest urban forests in the world.
Highlights along the way
The Taunay Waterfall (Cascatinha Taunay) falls about 30 metres right beside the road, an easy stop for photos. Vista Chinesa, a pavilion in Chinese style, looks out over the Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon, Ipanema and Sugarloaf Mountain. The Mesa do Imperador, a stone table where the imperial family is said to have picnicked, offers another wide view of the city.
Wildlife
The forest is home to marmosets, coatis, toucans and many other birds. Some visitors are even lucky enough to see a sloth crossing the road, as Marcio’s guests did on one of his tours.
Visiting with Marcio
The road through the forest connects Christ the Redeemer with the rest of the city, so it fits naturally into a full day. Marcio chooses the stops according to the weather and your interests, from a quick waterfall photo to a longer pause at the viewpoints.
Do I need to hike to see Tijuca Forest?
No. The main waterfalls and viewpoints can be reached by car, with only short walks. Longer trails exist for those who want them.
Which tours include Tijuca Forest?
The Best of Rio in One Day passes through the forest on the way to or from Christ the Redeemer, and the Sunrise in Rio tour stops at the Taunay Waterfall. It can also be part of a custom tour.
