If you’ve ever visited Rio de Janeiro, it probably didn’t take long for you to be seduced by her charms. A couple of hours, perhaps, or maybe as you gazed down on her from above before the plane even landed. It’s a vibrant and intoxicating place. With a landscape of mountains and beaches, waterfalls and lagoons, and the largest urban forest in the world, Rio de Janeiro is a city inspired by its natural surroundings. Because it is defined by the sensual curves of its terrain, Rio is a place that just begs to be explored on foot. But don’t just stick to the wide avenues and mosaic sidewalks. Escape the urban sprawl by disappearing into the rainforest – or climb above it all to experience a truly natural high.
Rio is enclosed on one side by a jagged wall of mountains called the Tijuca-Carioca massif, while the other side is fringed by crescent beaches and the giant swell of Guanabara Bay. The most recognizable peak in the Carioca range is Corcovado, where the statue of Christ the Redeemer stands with outstretched arms and an unwavering gaze across the city. Other prominent mountains around Rio include Pão de Açúcar, Dois Irmãos, Pedra da Gávea and Pico da Tijuca.
Between the skyscrapers and streets, imposing granite hills called morros sever the landscape into distinct neighborhoods. The vast majority of morros that aren’t too steep to build upon have been claimed by favelas (shantytowns). But during the past few decades, some of the hills have been cleared and re-established as parks or environmental areas. Fortunately, there are often trails to the top of these, with clear panoramas of the surrounding domain. Because they’re not particularly high, they can usually be summited in less than an hour – making a nice spot to enjoy a picnic lunch or admire the sunset.
However, there are also more challenging treks with greater rewards in store for those willing to make the effort.
The City’s Defining Symbols
Some of the best views of Rio can be soaked in from atop Pão de Açúcar (Sugarloaf Mountain) and Corcovado (which means “hunchback”). These are the landmarks that have sold a million postcards and adorned the walls of travel agencies around the world. They’re on every visitor’s must-see list, as much for the lofty perspectives as for the method of ascent: Sugarloaf can be reached by two precarious cable car rides, and Corcovado by a puttering electric train.
But did you know that each of these peaks can also be surmounted on foot? It’s always a more satisfying experience when you’ve scrambled all the way up on your own. The other visitors at the top may not be aware of your personal victory, but you can certainly share some of the hardship you endured by standing next to them in your sweaty T-shirt. And for those who don’t want to miss out on the enjoyable train or cable car rides, there is always the option of catching them back down (at half the fare).
The hikes up Sugarloaf and Corcovado are both fairly strenuous, so you should consider going with an experienced guide or a local resident familiar with the terrain. The trailhead for Corcovado is located in Parque Lage, a pleasant little oasis of native Atlantic rainforest in the Jardim Botânico neighborhood. There are a number of shaded paths and small lakes in the park – with an almost discouraging view of the summit beneath a sheer wall of granite. But don’t worry, the actual path veers off to the left and ascends the western side of the mountain, which is more accessible. Within 100 meters of the top, the trail abruptly ends and the remaining distance must be covered by following the paved road or catching the train. This may seem like a disappointing conclusion to your efforts – until you behold the views at your final destination. From here the city takes on an almost fluid quality, coiling itself around the uneven landscape and splashing up onto the hills like an incoming wave.
On a more embarrassing note, see how many people you can spot doing their “Jesus pose” beneath the statue of Cristo Redentor, as a companion snaps the moment for posterity. Please don’t encourage them.
While Corcovado may have the higher elevation and grander vistas, Sugarloaf clearly affords the most interesting perspective of Rio due to its location on a small peninsula jutting into the bay. From the summit, everything below looks elongated and twisted out of proportion. What’s interesting about Sugarloaf is how completely different the mountain looks when viewed from different angles throughout the city, appearing to move imperceptibly and shift her weight. It may seem like a steep, impenetrable fortress, but on the far eastern side, facing the ocean, there is a way to conquer this citadel by foot and rope.
The trailhead for Sugarloaf is located at the end of the paved Pista Cláudio Coutinho, a scenic walkway that originates from Praia Vermelha in Urca and hugs the lower slopes of the mountain. With vertical stone walls and dense vegetation rising above you on one side, and waves crashing below you on the other, this is truly a sublime beginning to the journey. You’ll need to squeeze past the tiny lighthouse before a narrow, slippery path rises through the grassy undergrowth towards the summit. For most of the way, you’ll be clambering up a roughly 45º slope, with views of Guanabara Bay, Niterói and Copacabana gradually unveiling the higher you get. Beyond the halfway point, a 20-metre rock-climbing segment must be negotiated with the proper equipment. This task shouldn’t be particularly difficult for a person in adequate shape. Depending on your fear of heights, however, it could prove to be an exhilarating highlight or the most terrifying ordeal of your ascent. But then, many visitors also find the cable car ride a little unnerving.
Due to the climbing associated with this hike, it is really not suitable for a solo outing. Hire an accredited guide and enjoy the trail safely, or join a climbing party with the appropriate equipment. There are plenty of outdoor companies and activity clubs located in the Rio de Janeiro area (which are often listed in guidebooks, advertised locally, or easily found on the internet). Several of them are also included below.
The Morro the Merrier
If you are traveling alone or perhaps with a companion whose eco-phobic or environmentally challenged, there are a number of scenic trails that can be completed in just a few hours. These hikes require little or no forethought, which makes them ideal for those sudden urges to abandon the hurried pace of the city. In fact, it’s quite possible to squeeze two or three of them into one leisurely day.
For example, you might consider starting off with Pico do Sacopã in the morning – a perfect introduction to urban hiking in Rio; the path is short and well-marked, leading to an exposed crest that overlooks the lagoa. Then, you could stroll down to the beach for a few hours, cooling off your feet as you traverse the grand arc of Copacabana. By early afternoon, you have the option of following the trail up Morro da Babilônia, near the end of Leme, or catching a local bus into Urca and ascending the morro of the same name. You may even decide to stamp your footprint on both peaks. From Morro da Urca, you can embrace the sunset and watch the colorful emergence of city lights below – or ride the bondinho up Sugarloaf for a loftier perspective. In that brief interlude, when the last smears of pink dissolve behind the mountains and the skies become a rich cobalt blue, Rio de Janeiro is at her most seductive.
If you enjoy the outdoors but your time in Rio is brief, there are a number of short treks listed at the end of this article that can be linked together with a walk or bus ride. Several of the city’s parks – such as the Parque da Cidade, Parque do Penhasco Dois Irmãos, or the previously cited Parque Lage – have interesting walks through verdant rainforest, and each serves as the launching pad for a longer trail. Dois Irmãos (Two Brothers) are the twin peaks rising above the districts of Leblon and Gávea. An interlacing network of trails cross the lower flanks of the mountain, revealing unique views of the city, lagoa and beaches from a perspective you’re unlikely to find on any postcard.
A Sanctuary within the City
The most renowned park in Rio de Janeiro is the extensive Parque Nacional da Tijuca – the veritable lungs of the city – divided into three sectors and comprising an area of roughly 120 square kilometers. It is so vast, in fact, that people have been known to wander off the trails and get lost for days. But don’t let that intimidate you because the established routes are well maintained and clearly marked, even for the novice hiker.
Tijuca is the largest urban forest in the world, and an integral part of the city worth experiencing. This is a canvas full of rich colors and textures, brimming with exotic noises and wildlife. Among the creatures that inhabit Tijuca are monkeys, parrots and toucans, butterflies, coati, sloths, squirrels, falcons and hummingbirds, agoutis, lizards, snakes and spiders. The park is largely comprised of second-growth rainforest, replanted near the end of the 19th century to counter the environmental and climatic damage caused by local ranches and plantations. It provides an accessible oasis for Carioca families, and a chance for visitors to imagine what the coastline of Brazil might’ve been like centuries ago when it was still blanketed by the Mata Atlântica (Atlantic rainforest). Even if hiking isn’t really your bag, Tijuca has a variety of enjoyable walks, picnic areas, gardens, waterfalls and grottos to explore – plus some wonderful vistas of both the city and surrounding peaks.
The heart of the park is the Floresta (Forest) da Tijuca in Sector A, where the greatest concentration of trails is located. Among the more notable hikes are those leading to the top of Pico da Tijuca, Morro da Cocanha, Bico da Papagaio, Pedra do Conde, Andaraí-Maior and Morro do Archer. These treks all make worthwhile outings because they venture through the wilderness and afford magnificent views of the lush, undulating terrain from their summits. However, if you’d prefer to wander down some gentle paths that don’t involve all of that unnecessary elevation gain, then perhaps the Cachoeira das Almas or Circuito das Grutas walks will be more to your liking; the first passes by some picturesque streams and waterfalls, while the latter cuts through a series of narrow grottos. Whatever your desire or ability, Tijuca has a trail just for you.
The final ascent of Pico da Tijuca is comprised of a meandering staircase carved into the granite, with 120 meters of rusted chains to assist hikers in their quest for the summit. On clear days the panorama may include the distant spires of the Serra dos Órgãos, or the rugged coastline extending east from Niterói (across the bay).
The Stone-Faced Giant
If you only have time to experience one hike during your stay in Rio, Pedra da Gávea (Topsail Rock) is arguably the most spectacular and challenging destination in the area. Located in Sector C of Tijuca National Park, this peak is an easily recognizable landmark on the western skyline due to its hulking size and square-shaped crest. The mountain is highly revered by Cariocas and has become the subject of some rather imaginative theories and legends. Not only are the lofty 360º views from the top unparalleled, but the trail itself crosses a wide variety of terrain that should appeal to intrepid eco-tourists and adventure seekers alike. Set aside an entire day for this outing because you’ll want to spend some time exploring the summit, which is marked by twisted trees, ravines, boulders and grassy slopes.
Be forewarned, however, that conquering Pedra da Gávea definitely requires some physical stamina; there are several vertical sections of the trail that involve a bit of scrambling, and a rocky stretch known as the Carrasqueira where you may need to use rope if the ground is slippery. A harrowing drop-off along the mountain’s western shoulder deserves caution and affords spectacular aerial views of Barra da Tijuca’s coastline, lagoons and urban planning. If you’re prone to spells of vertigo, your knees will definitely be quivering at the top – although you may be too absorbed with the panoramas to notice. The rolling hills and jagged peaks of Tijuca are visible to the north; the ocean to the south; Barra da Tijuca and Jacarepaguá to the west; and the gigantic sprawl of the Rocinha favela, São Conrado and Rio’s south zone stretch toward the hazy eastern horizon. The summit is so high and far-removed from the city that you’ll feel as if you’re sailing above it all, much like the hang gliders circling around Pedra Bonita nearby.
With the discovery of some inscriptions carved into the rock, and the mountain’s resemblance to a giant sculpted face, there has been some wild speculation that Pedra da Gávea may be the site of an ancient Phoenician tomb, a time portal, and a UFO landing platform. Whatever you may want to believe, it’s certainly a place that stirs the imagination and delights the senses.
Before Your Adventures Begin
Although hiking in Rio de Janeiro can be a pleasantly rewarding experience, there are some pointers to take into account before setting out. First of all, make sure you’re well-equipped to face the elements. Take plenty of water and snacks (especially energy foods like fruit, nuts, sandwiches and power bars), dress in comfortable footwear, bring sunscreen and a hat, and pack a raincoat in case the weather unexpectedly sours halfway through your trek. Additional items to consider tossing in your pack are a flashlight, some rope, your camera and extra film, a first aid kit, your wristwatch, and plenty of insect repellent (as mosquitoes love snacking on tasty gringo flesh). Try to have as little impact on the environment as possible by staying on the marked trails and carrying all of your garbage back out with you.
There have also been periodic reports of both tourists and Cariocas alike being robbed on urban trails, particularly in Tijuca National Park. Crime is an everyday reality in large cities like Rio, but that doesn’t guarantee you’ll be targeted. As long as you dress casually and only carry a small amount of cash, you should be just fine. Most fellow hikers are exceptionally friendly and will often engage you in some lively conversation along the way. Or, depending on the trail, you may not even encounter another human being – especially during the week. Nevertheless, it is advisable to hike with someone else when possible, or take a guided trek if you are uncomfortable going alone. Several of the trails cited in this article are simply too dangerous to consider for a solo effort, in case you become injured or lost along the way. If you’re confident of your abilities, then planning to go on the weekend (when there are more people about) is a sensible option. And finally, make sure to notify someone – even a front desk clerk – where you’re heading if you plan on trekking by yourself.
While it is possible to hike year-round in Rio, the mildest and driest months fall between July and September. During the Brazilian summer (late December through early March), the temperatures in the rainforest can be sweltering, and the prospect of a sudden downpour is more likely. However, don’t allow overcast conditions to sabotage your plans. Definitely save the longer and higher treks for a sunny day, but be open to trying a shorter jaunt in less than favorable weather. This may seem like a peculiar recommendation until you’ve actually stood atop Morro da Urca or Pico do Sacopã in the mist. Although the trails may be slippery and the views more limited, your immediate surroundings will take on a mysterious, ethereal quality in the clouds that’s actually quite beautiful. If not for the echoes of traffic below, you could easily imagine yourself far removed from civilization.
Let’s face it – Rio is a beautiful place to explore under any conditions. The synthesis of buildings and nature here is unparalleled, despite the harmful consequences of the past and the continuing pressures of urban expansion in the future. But only when you’ve left the sidewalks behind and ventured into the hills can you truly sense the quiet heart of this city and respect the precarious balance that must be maintained.
Rio de Janeiro Trails at a Glance
There are, of course, many additional trails located within the greater metropolitan area that were not included in this article. Tijuca National Park alone offers more than sixty hiking opportunities, and there are some good treks located to the west in Jacarepaguá and across the bay in Niterói. The subsequent list compiles thirteen of the most beautiful and rewarding urban hikes, covering a variety of locations, difficulty and terrain. Unless otherwise noted, the trailheads are each accessible by public transit (generally with some extra footwork involved). Access points denote a street or park, and the neighborhood where it is located, for reference on a detailed city map. In some cases, additional directions have been provided to get you started. Be aware of park hours, where necessary, and factor in transportation times before setting off on some of the hikes. The rest is up to you.
Parque Lage – Corcovado (Lage Park – Corcovado) - Access From: Parque Lage, Jardim Botânico • Summit Elevation: 704 meters • Difficulty Level: Challenging • Time Required: 2-3 hours (one way) • Follow the paths through the park until you reach an empty stone building on the far side; the trailhead is located on your right. Refer to the posted maps and signage to guide you in the proper direction. Although there are arrow markers to guide you on the ascent, they are sometimes difficult to spot and smaller offshoots can lead to dead-ends, so be careful. Rope may also come in handy for some sections on the upper half of the trail. A couple of small waterfalls make refreshing pit stops along the way. If you’re lucky, you may catch a glimpse of birds or monkeys jumping through the forest canopy. Corcovado is one of the highest peaks around, so it is not uncommon to reach the summit only to discover that you’re in (or above) the clouds; to minimize disappointment, make sure you can clearly see the peak before beginning your hike. Optional descent to Cosme Velho by electric train or taxicab.
Pão de Açúcar (Sugarloaf Mountain) - Access From: the end of Pista Cláudio Coutinho (Praia Vermelha), Urca • Summit Elevation: 396 meters • Difficulty Level: Challenging • Time Required: 4 hours (one way) • Some climbing involved • This hike is typically done in one direction – from bottom to top – although it may be possible to pre-arrange a vertical rappelling descent with some of the local outfitters. When you reach the summit, head down to explore the landscaped walks below the primary observation level to escape from the crowds; these paths are quite relaxing and surprisingly overlooked by the average tourist. If you can, plan on staying at the top for sunset – the city doesn’t get more beautiful than this. Don’t be surprised if you spot some micos during your hike – they’re fairly common around these parts. Optional descent by cable car at a reduced fare (there are two choices available here: either ride it all the way down to Praia Vermelha, or only go as far as Morro da Urca and hike to the bottom from there).
Morro da Urca (Urca Hill) - Access From: Pista Cláudio Coutinho (Praia Vermelha), Urca • Summit Elevation: 215 meters • Difficulty Level: Moderate • Time Required: 1 hour (each way) • Morro da Urca is the smaller peak next to Sugarloaf, and the first station on the cable car ascent. The trailhead can be found on your left at roughly the 300-meter mark along the Pista Cláudio Coutinho. The steepest section of the hike begins almost immediately and continues until you reach the saddle between the two mountains. From here, the trail splits in opposite directions – to the base of Sugarloaf on the right, and to the top of Morro da Urca on the left. Optional descent by cable car (or you may choose to ascend Sugarloaf first before heading back down).
Morro da Babilônia (Babylon Hill) - Access From: the top of Ladeira Ari Barroso, Leme • Summit Elevation: 235 meters • Difficulty Level: Easy • Time Required: 2 hours (round trip) • The long, gently-sloping summit of Morro da Babilônia (named after the famous hanging gardens) is a wonderful place to explore. Spend some time studying the foliage up close, or kick back and enjoy the amazing views of Copacabana, Botafogo, the University of Rio de Janeiro campuses, and the cable cars ascending Morro da Urca and Sugarloaf. Cinephiles may recognize the backdrop from scenes of “Black Orpheus” (although the favela atop Babilônia no longer exists). Today, the reforested landscape is similar to how it may have appeared centuries earlier, but the morro is still a relatively underappreciated gem within the city.
Pico do Sacopã (Sacopã Peak) - Access From: Parque da Catacumba, Lagoa • Summit Elevation: 134 meters • Difficulty Level: Easy • Time Required: 1 hour (round trip) • This footpath is located in a delightful park along the eastern rim of the lagoa – at one time the site of a sprawling favela that was leveled in the 1970’s. Today, the grounds contain a sculptural garden with some impressive works by Brazilian artists. You may want to allot some extra time after the hike to wander through the shaded paths and view the statues. The trailhead for Pico do Sacopã is to the left and up the slope from the park entrance, but there is a map inside to help get your bearings. Small signs with environmental facts dot the length of the trail. At the summit, you’ll be treated to a nice perspective of the lagoa and surrounding neighborhoods.
Morro da Saudade (Saudade Hill) - Access From: Parque Florestal da Saudade, Humaitá • Summit Elevation: 245 meters • Difficulty Level: Moderate • Time Required: 1-2 hours (round trip) • The park can be reached from Rua Bogari. Although it’s overshadowed by neighboring Morro dos Cabritos, the panorama from the top of Saudade offers a more complete view of the Zona Sul than Pico da Sacopã. Besides the lagoa, the mountains and the coast, highlights include the sprawling Cemitério São João Batista, Corcovado and Sugarloaf, and the lush rainforest of the Parque Nacional da Tijuca.
Cachoeira dos Primatas (Primates Waterfall) - Access From: the end of Rua Sara Vilela, Jardim Botânico • Difficulty Level: Easy • Time Required: 1-2 hours (round trip) • This pleasant little hike leads to a scenic waterfall hidden in the rainforest, with views looking back over the city, lagoa and ocean. The falls make a great destination on blistering summer days, with the possibility of encountering micos along the way (hence the name). Due to the number of exposed cliffs in the vicinity, this is also a popular locale for rock-climbing enthusiasts.
Parque do Penhasco Dois Irmãos (Park of the Two Brothers Cliff) - Access From: Rua Aperana, Alto Leblon • Difficulty Level: Easy • Time Required: 1-2 hours (round trip) • Due to the proximity of several favelas, there are a number of intersecting footpaths across the lower half of the mountain; this adds a somewhat labyrinthine quality to the hike that can be confusing at times. However, if you keep heading towards the mountain at each juncture (on the way up and back down), you’ll be fine. What make the trek worthwhile are the splendid views of the city, beaches and lagoa – which get more impressive the higher you go. To reach the unmarked trailhead, just follow the winding road through the lower half of the park, past several distracting viewpoints that offer a taste of what’s ahead. Refer to one of the posted maps if necessary. Although it’s possible to reach the crest of the lower peak (438m), it is recommended to hire a guide for the more challenging hike.
Parque da Cidade – Vista Chinesa – Mesa do Imperador (City Park – Chinese Lookout – Emperor’s Table) - Access From: Parque da Cidade, Gávea • Viewpoint Elevations: 380 meters (Vista Chinesa) and 561 meters (Mesa do Imperador) • Difficulty Level: Moderate • Time Required: 2-3 hours (round trip) • This trail leads to a couple of popular lookouts in Tijuca National Park, each offering a unique view over the city from a slightly different perspective. While it’s also possible to drive to these spots, the trail option is available to those who don’t have access to a car, or don’t want to pay for a guided tour. If you’re still feeling energetic after the hike, you might consider following the Travessia Parque da Cidade-Horto, which leads to a couple of pleasant little waterfalls in the Horto neighborhood; this is an easy walk that will add roughly 3 hours to the time required.
Pico da Tijuca (Tijuca Peak) - Access From: Largo do Bom Retiro, Parque Nacional da Tijuca • Summit Elevation: 1,012 meters • Difficulty Level: Moderate • Time Required: 4-5 hours (round trip) • Although it’s the highest peak in the area, the city seems far removed from Tijuca’s summit. The park is accessible by public transit, but it’s a time-consuming affair with considerable extra walking involved to reach the trailhead. Therefore, it’s a good idea to get an early start, or if you’re planning to do several hikes in Tijuca, then perhaps renting a car is a better option. Due to its popularity with locals and tour groups, Pico da Tijuca is often more crowded than other hikes around Rio (especially on weekends). It’s also possible to extend your trip by incorporating the path to nearby Tijuca-Mirim, a minor diversion that adds about an hour to the time required. Many of the hikes located in the Floresta da Tijuca sector originate near Largo do Bom Retiro, or branch off from other trails that begin here. Maps are available near the main park entrance at Alto da Boa Vista.
Bico do Papagaio (Parrot’s Beak) - Access From: Largo do Bom Retiro, Parque Nacional da Tijuca • Summit Elevation: 989 meters • Difficulty Level: Moderate • Time Required: 4-5 hours (round trip) • It’s not hard to imagine how this peak acquired its moniker once you’ve seen the interesting rock formations at its summit. While the trail starts out easy enough, the grade becomes more accentuated considerably in the latter stages, and you will have to navigate around some obstacles before reaching the top. But your efforts will be rewarded by the swell views, and it’s kind of fun to crawl around or sit beneath the overhanging ledges. To reach Bico do Papagaio, start off on the trail to Tijuca Peak and turn left at the first fork in the path, and then right at the second (the other route leads to Morro da Cocanha).
Pedra Bonita (Beautiful Rock) - Access From: Estrada das Canoas, São Conrado • Summit Elevation: 696 meters • Difficulty Level: Easy • Time Required: 2 hours (round trip) • The location of a hang-gliding ramp near Pedra Bonita often overshadows the presence of a decent trail to the summit. From the top, the views of Pedra da Gávea, São Conrado and the coastline below are spectacular, and it’s fun to watch the colorful hang-gliders circling through the sky. With some careful pre-planning, it could be possible to arrange an optional tandem-flight descent to Pepino Beach after returning from the hike. Or, if you’d prefer to tackle a longer trek in the same area, you could combine this circuit with the adjoining trails to Mirante do Chapecó (551m) and Pedra Aguda or Agulhinha (610m), which might add another 2-3 hours to the time required. Unfortunately, there is no access to the Pedra Bonita trailhead by public transit, so you’ll either need to drive there or join a guided tour.
Pedra da Gávea (Topsail Rock) - Access From: the end of Estrada do Sorimã, Barrinha (Barra da Tijuca) • Summit Elevation: 842 meters • Difficulty Level: Challenging • Time Required: 5-7 hours (round trip) • Some climbing involved • A definite highlight among the urban hikes listed here, Pedra da Gávea is worth the effort. There are three primary trails that begin the ascent from different sides of the mountain, but they all converge at a clearing known as the Praça da Bandeira before continuing to the summit. The most established route starts from Barrinha along the remnants of an old colonial road, passing close to a shaded waterfall (which makes a refreshing detour on the return trip). Elevation is gained quickly, but there are few breaks in the forest canopy to assess how high you’ve climbed until beyond the halfway point; after that, you’ll have trouble keeping your eyes on the path because there is just so much to see. Your first glimpse of the Cabeça do Imperador (Head of the Emperor) will cause you to stop in your tracks. Close your mouth – you may swallow a bug. Unfortunately, the trailhead is not accessible by public transit, but because of the difficulty associated with this hike, it is recommended to hire an experienced guide or go with a local familiar with the route.
Urban Hiking in Rio de Janeiro: Tour Companies
For more information about hiking, climbing and adventure tours in Rio de Janeiro please visit the web sites below, or contact the companies directly to make reservations.
Ventos Ecoturismo - A highly recommended and affordable option for individual hikers and group outings. The guides are very friendly and knowledgeable about the trails and environment. Other eco-activities are listed on their web site. Phone: +(55-21) 8141-9940 or 8178-9811 or 8817-1502.
Rio Hiking Tours - Another company worth checking out, although somewhat pricier. For group hikes only. Phone: +(55-21) 2507-4417 or 9721-0594
Trilhas do Rio Ecoturismo & Aventura - An eco-tourism operator that plans various outdoor activities around the city and Rio de Janeiro state. Joining a group is a nice way to meet Cariocas and visitors with similar interests, but advanced reservations and payment are required. Suggested trips (with reasonable rates) are listed on the web site for the week ahead, although you will need to arrange your own transportation to and from the meeting points. Phone: +(55-21) 2424-5455 or 7823-2520.
Urban Hiking in Rio de Janeiro: Resources in Portuguese
General information about hiking in Rio de Janeiro can also be obtained from the following web sites (in Portuguese only). If your language skills aren’t up to snuff, try a translating service such as BabelFish.
Instituto Terra Brasil - A good web site featuring maps, text and photos of the hikes in Tijuca National Park, including Parque Lage-Corcovado, Pedra da Gávea, Pedra Bonita and the various Floresta da Tijuca circuits.
Trilha & Cia - If you’re serious about hiking and plan on staying in the city for an extended period of time, this web site may inspire you to start digging a little deeper for information online. Not only does it feature an extensive listing of over 170 trails within close proximity of Rio, it also has plenty of maps and photos – including treks in Itatiaia and the Serra dos Órgãos (two beautiful national parks in Rio de Janeiro state), and nearby Pedra Branca. Unfortunately, the listings are rather sparse on details and directions.
Veja Rio - An eight-page feature about hiking in Rio entitled “Visto Assim do Alto” appeared in the 02-Feb-2005 edition of Veja Rio, the local supplement of the national news magazine Veja. In order to view it online, you will need to register for one of Veja’s newsletters to gain access.
O Guia Legal - For those interested in visiting some of the other waterfalls located around Rio, this web page lists more than 50 of them (with blurry photos and very brief directions); many of these are located in Tijuca National Park and Jacarepaguá, to the west of Rio.
* Taylor Knight is an avid traveler, hiker and photographer with a particular soft spot for Brazil. The author may be contacted by Email.
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Rio for Partiers - a guidebook with attitude.
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