Tijuca Forest Challenge Full-Day Hike (Small-Group or Private)

Rio de Janeiro , Brazil

Tijuca Forest Challenge Full-Day Hike (Small-Group or Private)

Active

(134 reviews)

8h - 9h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

A challenging hike in a very unusual part of Tijuca Forest, one of the biggest urban forests in the world. On this circuit of trails you'll walk approx. 5h, for 10,4km (6.5mi), with an elevation gain of 848m (2,670ft) and discover the nature and beauty of the jungle. Reach the Taquara Hill (814m=2670ft), a 100m higher than Christ Redeemer with mazing views to the valley of the forest and the city, in clear days. Visit caves and also coffee farms ruin. After the hike, refresh in a waterfall* (bring towel/ bathing suit). On the route to the park, stop by another summit for pictures and admiring the landscape. The scenery of this tour is amazing with nature and a lot of adventure. You'll also learn the history of Brazil, of the forest, the coffee farms of that area, and the reforestation that happened in the 1800's.

*The flow on the falls varies according to the rain.
*it also goes to Vista Chinesa but only on working days (on weekends/holidays Vista Chinesa is closed for vehicles)

Available options

Collective small group (max.6)

Pickup included

Private (1 to 6 participants)

Private: exclusive car/guide<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Pickup and drop-off from designated meeting points

Guided Hike

All Fees and Taxes

Transport in small vehicle (max. 6 people) / (optional air conditioner)

Licensed tour guide

Insurance

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

In the Tijuca Forest National Park, we'll visit some of the most famous attractions like Taunay Waterfall, Vista Chinesa and also do our circuit hike (aprox. 9km=5.6mi) passing by waterfalls, summits and reaching peaks with magnificent views, like the Taquara Castle (814m=2,670ft).

On the way to Tijuca Forest National Park we'll drive by Canoas Summit and it´s possible to see from a distance Pedra da Gávea and Pedra Bonita, that compose a pretty landscape.

In the Tijuca Forest main sector we'll spend most of the day. Hiking in a loop circuit deep in the rainforest, well experience all its lush, passing by rivers, waterfalls, peaks and caves and in the end, refreshing in a waterfall shower.

Taunay Waterfall is the highest and most famous waterfall at Tijuca Forest Park. Before starting the hike we'll stop by to see its beauty, feel its freschness and take some pictures. (swimming in this waterfall is not allowed but after the hike we visit another fall where is possible to shower).

We'll drive by this charming, small and cute little chapel, built in 1850, when the Tijuca Forest was a coffee farm.

Stop 6

This is considered one of the most beautiful views in Rio and one of the few places in the city where you can put Christ Redeemer and Sugar Loaf in the same frame. It's not located in the same sector of the park where we'll do the hike but we'll stop there on the way to check the view and take some pictures.

What's not included

Food, water, drinks

Pick up/drop off OUT of the designated meeting points/areas

Available languages

Guide guide

PT EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

7 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

127 reviews

5★

124

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness

Very good fitness required. HARD level hike. NO technical rock climbing, just hiking.

Hike details: 10,4km (6,5mi) (up and down rough terrain), 4 to 5h, elev. gain 848m=2782ft.

Passport name, number and date of birth is required at time of booking for all participants (for insurance)

Not recommended for child under 14 and they must be accompanied.

Maximum of 6 participants on the tour (or you can choose a private option)

Vista Chinesa summit is also visited but only on working days.

Not recommended for people who are not used to hike.

Not recommended for travelers that are not fit and doing exercise on a regular basis.

Meeting point

Transport is included from designated hotels (more than 50 options) on the neighborhoods of Copacabana, Ipanema, Leblon, Leme, Santa Teresa, Flamengo and Botafogo. When booking, choose from a list the best/closest option as your meeting point.

Important notes

ACTIVE HIKING OUTDOOR TOUR, up and downhill on rough terrain classified as HARD. Very good fitness required. (10,4km=6.5mi) / 4 to 5h / elevation gain 848m (2,782ft) Not recommended for participants with heart complaints, sedentary or other serious medical conditions.

IMPORTANT: please contact us right after concluding your booking to inform/confirm:
• the address of the meeting point/hotel (transport included from designated hotels and hostels in several areas of Rio - South Zone ONLY). Choose the closest meeting point to your place.
• time shown here is an estimation of the start time. Exact pick up time depends on meeting point location and will be informed on the previous night at 8:10pm by email. PLEASE READ YOUR EMAILS on the NIGHT BEFORE after 08:10PM.
• passport name, number and date of birth from ALL PARTICIPANTS (required for insurance)

WHAT TO TAKE/WEAR
• Comfortable clothes and shoes.
• Bring snacks/fruits/sandwich and water (2 to 3 liters/person) until the stop for lunch.
• Sun lotion, insect repellent

TIME / DURATION: The duration of transfers are approximate, the exact duration will depend on the pace of the hike and traffic conditions. Times are subject to change due to local traffic conditions.

WEATHER: If there´s rain/bad weather the tour may be rescheduled or canceled (with a refund of the payment).

About Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro, known as the 'Marvelous City,' is famous for its natural settings, Carnival, samba, bossa nova, and Balneario beaches such as Copacabana and Ipanema. It's a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, including the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue and Sugarloaf Mountain.

Top Attractions

Christ the Redeemer

One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, this iconic statue offers breathtaking views of Rio de Janeiro.

Historical/Religious 2-3 hours R$84 (including train ticket)

Sugarloaf Mountain

A famous peak offering stunning views of Rio de Janeiro and its beaches.

Nature 2-3 hours R$88 (round-trip cable car)

Copacabana Beach

One of the most famous beaches in the world, known for its vibrant atmosphere and beautiful sunsets.

Beach Half day or full day Free

Tijuca National Park

The world's largest urban forest, offering hiking trails, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.

Nature Half day or full day Free (some attractions may have fees)

Santa Teresa

A historic and bohemian neighborhood known for its cobblestone streets, art galleries, and scenic views.

Cultural Half day Free to explore

Must-Try Local Dishes

Feijoada

A hearty stew made with black beans and various cuts of pork, often served with rice, collard greens, and orange slices.

Dinner Contains pork, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Pão de Queijo

Cheese bread made with tapioca flour, giving it a unique texture and flavor.

Snack Vegetarian, but contains dairy.

Moqueca

A traditional fish stew cooked in coconut milk and dendê oil, with various seafood and vegetables.

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan with vegetable broth and tofu.

Açaí

A thick, creamy fruit pulp from the açaí palm, often served with granola and condensed milk.

Dessert/Drink Can be made vegan with plant-based milk.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Tijuca National Park Surfing in Arpoador Paragliding in Pedra Bonita Beach lounging in Ipanema Spa treatments in Copacabana Yoga in Botafogo Visiting museums in Centro Attending a samba show

Best Time to Visit

December to March

This is the peak tourist season with warm weather and the famous Carnival in February/March. Expect crowded beaches and higher prices.

25-30°C 77-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Portuguese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Brazilian Real (BRL)

Time Zone

GMT-3 (Brasília Time)

Electricity

110V/220VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Rio de Janeiro is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and violence can occur. Exercise caution, especially in less touristy areas and at night.

Important Precautions:

• Avoid walking alone at night in unsafe areas
• Use common sense and stay alert to your surroundings
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight

Getting there

By air

Rio de Janeiro-Galeão International Airport • 20 km (12 miles) from city center
Santos Dumont Airport • 12 km (7.5 miles) from city center

By train

Central do Brasil

By bus

Rodoviária Novo Rio, Terminal Rodoviário da Gavea

Getting around

Public transport

Efficient and air-conditioned, the metro is a great way to avoid traffic.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, 99 Taxis

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Copacabana Ipanema Santa Teresa Lapa Botafogo

Day trips

Petrópolis

65 km (40 miles) • Full day

A charming colonial town in the mountains, known for its historic architecture and cool climate.

Paraty

170 km (105 miles) • Full day or overnight

A historic coastal town with cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and beautiful beaches.

Búzios

170 km (105 miles) • Full day or overnight

A picturesque beach town known for its stunning beaches, clear waters, and vibrant nightlife.

Festivals

Carnival • February/March (dates vary) Rio Carnival Samba Parade • February/March (dates vary) New Year's Eve (Réveillon) • December 31

Pro tips

Visit Christ the Redeemer early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the best views
Take a helicopter tour for a unique perspective of the city
Explore the less touristy neighborhoods like Santa Teresa and Botafogo for a more authentic experience
Try local street food like pão de queijo and coxinha for a taste of Brazilian flavors
Learn some basic Portuguese phrases to enhance your interactions with locals