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Tijuca National Park: Rio's Urban Rainforest Escape

Explore Rio's green heart: Hike lush trails, discover waterfalls, and witness stunning views in the world's largest urban rainforest.

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Escape the urban bustle within Rio de Janeiro's Tijuca National Park, a sprawling hand-planted rainforest offering hiking trails, stunning waterfalls, panoramic viewpoints, and a chance to spot wildlife. Once cleared for coffee plantations, this revitalized landscape is now a verdant sanctuary and a must-see destination.

A brief summary to Tijuca National Park

  • Estr. da Cascatinha, 850, Rio de Janeiro, Alto da Boa Vista, State of Rio de Janeiro, 20531-590, BR
  • Visit website
  • Monday 8 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-5 pm
  • Friday 8 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for hiking, as the park has many trails to explore.
  • Bring water and snacks, especially if you plan on hiking for an extended period.
  • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and the heat of the day.
  • Pick up a free trail map at the park entrance to help navigate the various routes.
  • Consider a guided tour to learn more about the park's history, flora, and fauna.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From central Rio, the best way to reach Tijuca National Park is by bus. Several bus lines, including 301, 302, 308, 309, 345, and 221, will take you to Alto da Boa Vista, near the park entrance. Disembark at Praça Afonso Viseu and walk to the park entrance. A single bus fare within Rio de Janeiro typically costs around R$4.05.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available in Rio de Janeiro. A taxi ride from Copacabana to Tijuca National Park will cost approximately R$60-80 and take around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic.

  • Driving

    If driving, access the park via Estrada da Cascatinha. From the South Zone, take Rua Jardim Botânico and follow signs for Tijuca/Corcovado. Parking is available near the park entrance, but it can be limited, especially on weekends. Parking fees vary, but expect to pay around R$5-10 per hour.

Unlock the Best of Tijuca National Park

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Discover more about Tijuca National Park

Tijuca National Park, a sprawling 39.53-sq-km urban national park, offers a lush escape within the city of Rio de Janeiro. This expansive green space, largely the result of 19th-century reforestation efforts, stands as a testament to environmental recovery. What was once a landscape ravaged by deforestation due to coffee and sugarcane plantations has been transformed into a thriving Atlantic Forest ecosystem. Established as a national park in 1961, Tijuca is now a protected area teeming with diverse flora and fauna. Visitors can explore numerous well-marked trails, discover hidden waterfalls like the Cascatinha Taunay, and enjoy panoramic city views from various peaks, including the Pico da Tijuca. The park also features historical landmarks such as the Mayrink Chapel, adorned with murals by Brazilian artist Cândido Portinari. The park's history is intertwined with Rio's development. In the 1700s, deforestation led to water shortages, prompting Emperor Pedro II to initiate reforestation efforts in 1861. Enslaved workers replanted an estimated 100,000 trees, laying the foundation for the park we see today. Tijuca National Park is more than just a scenic escape; it's a vital component of Rio's environment, helping to prevent erosion, reduce air pollution, and maintain crucial water sources. Today, the park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Hiking, picnicking, and wildlife spotting are popular activities. Keep an eye out for monkeys, sloths, and various bird species as you explore this urban rainforest. The Tijuca National Park Visitor Center offers valuable information and resources for exploring the park's many attractions.

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