Activity description
Just steps from the streets of Rio lies the thriving oasis of Tijuca, the world's largest urban rainforest. Contained within the city limits, this lush jungle is home to hundreds of species of plants and wildlife. Entrance to the Tijuca Forest is via open-top jeep, highlighting the contrast between Rio's concrete jungle and the lush greenery of Tijuca.
After your guide picks you up at your Rio hotel, hop in an open-air jeep and buckle up for a fun ride! Drive to the edge of the urban landscape and enter the Tijuca Forest, located just 10 minutes from the city center. You'll explore the important reforestation program of Tijuca National Park and learn about the importance of the Atlantic Forest ecosystem—part of the vast and protected Mata Biosphere Reserve, which spans 14 Brazilian states.
During your jeep tour through the rainforest, you'll have plenty of spectacular photo opportunities, with stops at the Emperor's Table and the Mayrink Chapel. It was at this table that Dom Pedro I, when he wanted to dine amidst one of the most beautiful views, would leave his residence at Quinta da Boa Vista and, in his carriage, head toward Estrada da Vista Chinesa.
At an altitude of 487 meters above sea level, the Emperor's Table offers a stunning view of the city, juxtaposing urbanization and nature. Stairs that surround the parapet lead visitors to the edge of a concrete ramp, creating a truly splendid setting.
The little pink chapel nestled in the forest, 460 meters above sea level, resembles a house from a children's storybook. It was built in 1860 by the Portuguese banker Viscount de Souto on his farm in the Tijuca Forest. The chapel is one of the attractions of Tijuca National Park. The altar is adorned with reproductions of panels depicting sacred images by Cândido Portinari. The gardens, as well as the courtyard bathtub in Carrara marble and tiles with a sullen spout, were designed by landscape architect Roberto Burle Marx.
At Vista Chinesa, the view of Ipanema and Copacabana beaches, Guanabara Bay, and even Niterói is breathtaking. The lookout point was built between 1902 and 1906. The oriental-style pagoda pays homage to the Chinese who brought tea cultivation to Brazil in the early 19th century.
Made of bamboo and cement, and located 380 meters above sea level, it is an important tourist attraction in the city.
Along the way, disembark for a short eco-hike lasting approximately 15 to 30 minutes, following an easy trail with your guide while observing the plants, animals, butterflies, and birds of the rainforest. Hike to the crystal-clear waterfall of Cachoeira dos Macacos and pass by the picturesque Cascatinha waterfalls. There's no better way to experience the living rainforest and marvel at the wildlife!
At the end of your jeep tour, you will be dropped off at your hotel in Rio de Janeiro.
Notes:
* Please note that some hotels in the city are not included in our transportation route. If your hotel is not included in our itinerary, we will contact you to indicate the closest hotel to which you should be transferred at the time of the service. You should wait for your guide in the lobby of the indicated hotel.
* Roundtrip transportation to most hotels in São Conrado, Leblon, Ipanema, Copacabana, Botafogo, Flamengo, Glória, Catete, Santa Teresa and Centro.
* Wear comfortable clothes and shoes.
* Bring a bottle of water.
* We recommend using sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat.
* Due to Forest regulations, it is not possible to visit Vista Chinesa on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays.
