Explore the Best of Tijuca Forest – Hike to Peaks, Caves & Falls

4.9 (1,196 reviews) Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Duration5h
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesPortuguese, English, Spanish
Group sizeUp to 15 travelers
Pickup offeredSee the meeting and pickup details below

Overview

This tour is all about experiencing the best of Rio - hiking to stunning peaks, exploring hidden caves, and cooling off in waterfalls within the incredible Tijuca National Park. Along the way, we’ll keep an eye out for wildlife like toucans, monkeys, sloths and coatis, while our guides share fascinating facts and stories about the park.

Rio is world-famous for its breathtaking scenery and is home to one of the largest urban forests on the planet. In this 4–5 hour adventure, we’ll visit the park’s top highlights and immerse you in the unique energy of this natural paradise. To ensure a personalized experience, our groups are always small—no more than 7 people per guide.

Options

THE BEST SPOTS IN TIJUCA PARK

SMALL GROUP NATURE EXPERINCE: Stunning peaks, hidden caves, waterfalls and wildlife — with passionate local guides, transportation & hotel pickup included!
MODERATE ADVENTURE: Ages 10–70. Moderate fitness recommended for small groups. For all ages and fitness levels, choose the private option.
HOTEL PICK-UP & DROP-OFF: Pickup is available in Rio’s South Zone and areas of Barra da Tijuca, where most hotels and vacation rentals are located.
Pickup included

PRIVATE TIJUCA FOREST TOUR

YOUR FOREST, YOUR WAY: Enjoy an exclusive Tijuca Forest adventure with a private guide and vehicle, with the freedom to explore at your own pace!
CUSTOMIZABLE & FAMILY-FRIENDLY: Tailored to your interests, fitness level and pace — ideal for families, all ages and travelers seeking extra comfort.
PICK UP ANYWHERE IN RIO: Enjoy private pickup from anywhere within Rio de Janeiro, including Centro, Santa Teresa and all areas of Barra da Tijuca.
Pickup included

What's included

  • Choose from 3 pickup times to fit your Rio schedule: early morning, 10:30 AM(private), or afternoon
  • Certified local guides in English, Spanish & Portuguese, ready to make your adventure unforgettable
  • Pickup is directly from your hotel or apartment within our pickup area — no need to go anywhere else
  • Tour ends with a refreshing bath beneath a natural waterfall
  • Your guide will be happy to take photos during the tour and save them directly to your phone
  • Tijuca National Park entrance included — explore Rio’s lush urban rainforest
  • Enjoy special group discounts when booking for 3+ people (private) or 4+ people (group tour)
  • Food and drinks

What to expect

  1. Pedra Bonita
    1h
    Pedra Bonita is one of Rio’s most incredible summits, located in Tijuca National Park, offering panoramic views of the city, coastline, and iconic landmarks like Pedra da Gávea and Christ the Redeemer. With an easy-to-moderate trail, it’s a perfect spot to experience Rio from above. In case of cloudy weather, we’ll swap Pedra Bonita for another amazing hike with great scenery.
  2. Parque Nacional da Tijuca
    2h
    Tijuca National Park is a lush rainforest oasis in the heart of Rio, filled with waterfalls, wildlife, scenic trails, and breathtaking views—an unforgettable escape into nature!
  3. Cascatinha Taunay
    15m
    The biggest waterfall in the Tijuca National Park. Perfect to take some nice pictures and bath.

    This beautiful waterfall stands 40 meters tall, cascading down a rocky cliff into a pool of crystal water. The sound of the falling water resonates through the area, providing a calming atmosphere.
  4. 15m
    This 40 meter high cave with light streaming in creates a surreal and breathtaking atmosphere located in the heart of Tijuca Forest. We hiking around 20-30 minutes to get there! On the way we see two other caves!

    As you explore further into the cave, you can hear the trickle of the water flowing through the rocks and the echoes of your own footsteps. You feel a sense of awe and wonder as you take in the majestic landscape!
  5. 15m
    A refreshing waterfall bath after hiking is the perfect way to relax and recharge. The cool water soothes tired muscles and leaves you feeling renewed amid the peaceful forest setting.
  6. Vista Chinesa
    15m
    Vista Chinesa is a breathtaking belvedere located in Tijuca National Park, offering sweeping views of Rio de Janeiro. From this iconic spot, you can see Guanabara Bay, Corcovado, the beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema, all framed by the lush greenery of the forest. It’s a peaceful place to pause and take in the natural beauty of the city. Please note: This attraction is closed on weekends!

Meeting and pickup

Pickup details

PLEASE READ!!!

SMALL GROUP TOUR: Pick-up is available in Rio’s South Zone and Barra da Tijuca(hotels near the metro and along the beach up to Post 4) where most hotels and vacation rentals are located. Pick-up and drop-off are at the same location. If you’re staying outside these areas, we’ll provide the closest meeting point, or you can choose the private option for more convenience.

PRIVATE TOUR: Pick-up is available anywhere in Rio, including the South Zone, North Zone, Downtown(including Santa Teresa), and all areas of Barra da Tijuca. You can be picked up and dropped off at different locations and bring luggage. If the system doesn’t accept your address, just book and send us your address via chat or WhatsApp.

GIG AIRPORT PICK-UP/ DROP-OFF: Choose the private option. An additional fee applies, depending on group size and day!

Additional information

  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • It is recommended that you bring water and wear comfortable clothes, trekking or sport shoes, a bathing suit and sunscreen
  • Itinerary may change a bit due to park rules, weather conditions, or group ability
  • Please send us your full address (street name and building number). If you’re not sure yet, just message us on WhatsApp or chat once you have your address in Rio

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Reviews

4.9 (1,196)
From
410.00 BRL 389.50 BRL per person
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  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
  • Instant confirmation
  • You'll choose your date and travelers and pay on viator.com. Prices vary by date, group size and option.
Operated by Rio Natural Ecotourism · Booked through Viator
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