With its stunning landscapes and natural riches, Rio de Janeiro stands out as one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Its beauty is driven by the lush Atlantic Forest, which embraces mountains, beaches, parks, lagoons and waterfalls, making Rio an unparalleled destination for ecotourism lovers.
The Marvelous City offers a unique experience for those who appreciate Nature Tourism, housing the largest urban forest on the planet. Furthermore, Rio de Janeiro is a paradise for Adventure Tourism enthusiasts, with options such as surfing, hiking, kayaking, cycling, hang gliding, rappelling and much more. Explore Rio’s natural wonders and experience memorable adventures.
10 Unmissable Tours in Rio de Janeiro to enjoy nature
1 – Christ the Redeemer (Cristo Redentor)
In the iconic Postcard of Brazil, Christ the Redeemer stands majestically in the midst of exuberant nature. Located 2326ft (709 meters) above sea level, in the heart of the Tijuca National Park, a visit to Corcovado is mandatory and was elected one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World.
Exploring the lush forest aboard a train that takes you to Christ the Redeemer is one of the most incredible tourism experiences in Rio de Janeiro. However, if you are an adventurer at heart and prefer trails, you can also reach Christ through a three-hour walk, immersed in the Atlantic forest. Discover the perfect balance between nature and culture in the Marvelous City.
Prohibited:
Adult – Low Season R$ 67.00
Adult – High Season R$ 82.00
Children (from 5 to 11 years old) – Both seasons R$ 52.00
Elderly (over 60 years old residing in Brazil) R$ 26.00
Visiting hours: Monday to Sunday, from 8am to 7pm, with departures every half hour.
Address: Rua Cosme Velho, 513 – Cosme Velho
For more information about the Corcovado Train click here.
2 – Rio de Janeiro Botanical Garden
The Rio de Janeiro Botanical Garden is one of the city’s most stunning green treasures, with more than 40,000 plants belonging to 6,500 different species. This charming space captivates a wide range of visitors, from families and couples to those seeking tranquility amidst exuberant nature.
If you are looking for a refuge away from the sun and the hustle and bustle of the beaches, the Botanical Garden is one of those places that deserves a peaceful and contemplative visit. In addition to marveling at the rich fauna and flora of the Atlantic Forest, you will find a fascinating museum, a charming shop, a cozy café and Espaço Tom Jobim, a cultural center and theater that offers a variety of cultural experiences.
Entry: R$15.
Visiting hours: Monday from 12:00 to 18:00 and Tuesday to Sunday, from 6:00 to 18:00.
Address: There are 4 accesses, namely:
Rua Jardim Botânico 1008
Rua Jardim Botânico, 920
Pacheco Leão Street, 101
Pacheco Leão Street, 91
3 – Vista Chinesa
Vista Chinesa is often considered the ideal place to enjoy the most spectacular views of Rio de Janeiro. Located at the top of Tijuca National Park, this unmissable attraction offers a stunning view of the Marvelous City.
For adventure lovers, there is the option of reaching Vista Chinesa by bicycle or on foot. The route to the viewpoint is completely paved and along the way, you can also come across two beautiful waterfalls: Cachoeira da Gruta and Cachoeira dos Macacos.
Those who prefer to just enjoy the panoramic view can choose to go up by car, which takes around 15 to 20 minutes, starting from the beginning of the access road. You can hire a taxi for R$15 or use Uber for R$7 to R$10, making the visit even more convenient.
Free entry.
Visiting hours: 24 hours.
Address: Estr. Dona Castorina, S/N – Alto da Boa Vista.
4 – Arpoador Beach (Praia do Arpoador)
Sunset at Arpoador Beach. Photo: Daniel Lara.
The Sunset at Praia do Arpoador is an unparalleled spectacle and has become the traditional place to enjoy this wonder of nature. Not only tourists but also locals frequent this area, where it has become a tradition to applaud when the sun sets completely.
From the top of Pedra do Arpoador, you enjoy a privileged and spectacular view. It is possible to contemplate the beautiful landscape formed by Ipanema Beach, Leblon Beach, Morro Dois Irmãos and the imposing Pedra da Gávea.
Address: Rua Francisco Otaviano, – Ipanema.
5 – Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon (Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas)
Rio de Janeiro’s cycle paths are ideal for cycling enthusiasts. Most of the city’s tourist attractions, especially in the South Zone, such as Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas, are easily accessible by bicycle. So, be sure to rent a bike to explore the main tourist attractions while cycling.
One of the most pleasant places to cycle is around Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas. It offers a cycle path that runs along its entire contour, providing shade from the trees along the way. Additionally, you will find kiosks, restaurants, sports courts, viewpoints and even pedal boats around the lagoon.
In Rio de Janeiro, there are several Itaú bicycle stations spread across the city, as well as bicycle rental stores. Therefore, there is no shortage of options to rent your bike and explore the city in a healthy and fun way.
Prohibited: –
Visiting hours:-
Address: There are several ways to get to Lagoa, the most used by tourists are via Ipanema Beach and Leblon.
6 – Flamengo Landfill (Aterro do Flamengo)
Aterro do Flamengo is a stunning leisure complex located on the edge of Guanabara Bay, offering a vast grassy area full of trees along the coast. This space is a true jewel in the city of Rio de Janeiro.
The Landfill has sports courts, cycle paths, areas for walking and picnics, as well as a wonderful garden designed by renowned landscaper Roberto Burle Marx.
On Sundays and holidays, the Aterro tracks are closed to motor vehicles, making it a true paradise for those who like to practice sports, such as running, cycling, skateboarding and skating. It is a place where nature and movement meet, providing moments of leisure and outdoor physical activities for everyone to enjoy.
7 – Telegraph Stone (Pedra do Telégrafo)
In addition to providing that famous classic photo on the edge of the abyss, which became a sensation on social media, Pedra do Telégrafo offers a paradisiacal setting that is worth the visit. Located in the Pedra Branca State Park, in the Praias Selvagens area, this attraction is a true natural treasure.
The traditional trail that leads to Pedra do Telégrafo lasts approximately 1 hour, covering around 1,880 meters in a very steep climb. However, the effort is rewarded with spectacular views and the opportunity to capture incredible photos at the most famous point on the trail. It is an unmissable experience for nature and adventure lovers.
Prohibited: –
Visiting hours:-
Address: Estrada de Barra de Guaratiba, Barra de Guaratiba.
8 – Gávea Stone (Pedra da Gávea)
Pedra da Gávea, known affectionately as “the emperor’s head,” is a true stone giant, rising an impressive 2762ft (842 meters) above sea level. However, reaching its summit is not for the faint of heart, as it is considered one of the most challenging trails in Rio de Janeiro.
The journey to Pedra da Gávea requires determination and physical preparation, and it is absolutely essential to be accompanied by an experienced guide. The trail, with 1,03769 miles (1.67 km) of steep climb, can take an average of 3 hours to complete. The effort is rewarded with intimate contact with nature and a stunning view of the city of Rio de Janeiro.
The price of the tour with a tour guide, which includes safety equipment and transportation, varies according to the size of the group. For one person, it can cost around R$320, but if you are in a group of six people, the cost can reach R$120 per person. In the end, the experience and the panoramic view of Garganta do Céu make all the effort worth it.
Prohibited: –
Visiting hours:-
Address: Entrance via Estrada Sorimã.
9 – Beautiful Stone – Hang Gliding Flight – Pedra Bonita – Voo de Asa Delta
Hang Gliding Flight in Pedra Bonita. Photo: Disclosure.
Not far from the imposing Pedra da Gávea, you will find the stunning Pedra Bonita, famous for being one of the main take-off points for hang gliding flights in the city. The ramp from which the flights depart is located at an impressive height of 520 meters (1706ft) above sea level.
The trail that leads to Pedra Bonita lasts approximately 40 minutes and is considered light and relatively easy, with no major obstacles along the way.
Hang gliding flights from Pedra Bonita usually last 10 to 15 minutes, and the cost generally varies between R$200 and R$400. The price can be influenced by the time of year and additional services, such as photographs and filming, which can be hired to record this exciting experience.
Prohibited: –
Visiting hours: Every day, 08:00 to 19:00.
Address: Estrada da Pedra Bonita, – São Conrado.
10 – Lage Park – Parque da Lage
We ended our journey through unmissable nature tours in Rio de Janeiro with a visit to Parque da Lage, located at the foot of the majestic Morro do Corcovado. This vast green space is full of lush gardens, a beautiful palace, old stables and even a picturesque cave.
In addition to providing a stunning view of the iconic Christ the Redeemer, Parque da Lage offers several ecological trails, small waterfalls, artificial caves, an aquarium and a serene lake known as Lago dos Patos. It is a place where nature and culture intertwine to create a unique experience in the Marvelous City.
Free entry
Visiting hours: Every day, 08:00 to 17:00.
Address: Rua Jardim Botânico, 414 – Jardim Botânico.
Conclusion
Amid the urban hustle and bustle of the Marvelous City, these 10 unmissable tours in Rio de Janeiro reveal a serene and exuberant side, providing memorable ecotourism experiences. From challenging trails to stunning panoramic views, from golden sand beaches to lush tropical forests, nature stands out as a captivating protagonist, reminding everyone that the harmony between the city and the natural environment is one of the greatest assets of this Brazilian metropolis.
