Rio de Janeiro Botanical Garden & Tijuca Forest Tour

Rio de Janeiro , Brazil

Rio de Janeiro Botanical Garden & Tijuca Forest Tour

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(153 reviews)

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Nature lovers can explore Rio’s diversity through a guided visit to the Botanical Garden and Tijuca Forest. Highlights at the garden include towering imperial palms, the Sensory Garden, the Rainforest Greenhouse, and the celebrated Orchidarium. Visitors encounter tranquil lakes, the Japanese Garden, and wildlife such as monkeys and toucans. The tour then ventures into Tijuca Forest to see Taunay Waterfall, walk easy trails, and learn about the Atlantic Forest ecosystem. Stops include Vista Chinesa (except on weekends) for city views and a scenic drive past São Conrado beach, where hang-gliders can be seen soaring overhead.

Available options

Without tickets

Tickets not included: Entrance fees to the Botanical Garden not included - payment at the box office.<br/>Pickup included

All tickets included

Ticket to the Botanical Garden: Entrance fees to the Botanical Garden included<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Professional guide with live tour commentary in English, Spanish, and Portuguese

Roundtrip transportation via air-conditioned vehicle

All taxes, fees and handling charges

Pickup and drop-off from the main hotels in the South Zone (Copacabana, Leme, Ipanema, and Leblon)

Tickets to the Botanical Garden of Rio de Janeiro (for option with all tickets included)

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Discover the diversity of Brazilian and foreign flora with a tour at the Botanical Garden in Rio de Janeiro.

Stop 2

Visit the Vista Chinesa gazebo and enjoy a panoramic view of Rio de Janeiro - (the visit is temporarily suspended while it is not accessible by vehicles).

Stop 3

Contemplate the incredible beauty of the Tijuca National Park, one of the largest urban forests in the world.

Observe the Taunay Waterfall at the Tijuca Natinal Forest.

Observe Capela Mayrink with ist simple beauty that stands out at the Tijuca National Forest

What's not included

Food or Drinks

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

PT EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.2

53 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.5

100 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

On Saturdays and Sundays Vista Chinesa will be off the itinerary because vehicles are not allowed on the highway.

Meeting point

Hotels in Leme.

Important notes

Passengers not staying at one of the hotels in our pickup list will be informed of the nearest pickup point and time.

It is recommended that you bring hat and sunglasses for sun protection, repellent, and a jacket, as the forest is high in altitude and can be chilly.

Passengers who choose the option without entrance to the Botanical Garden included must purchase the ticket at the ticket office. Payment must be in cash only.

On Saturdays and Sundays Vista Chinesa will be off the itinerary because vehicles are not allowed on the highway. There is no discount or refund policy in these cases.

Pick up from the hotel takes place before the start time of the activity. If you do not receive confirmation of your departure time, please contact us.

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