4.9 (1.2 k) · Rio de Janeiro · By Rio Natural Ecotourism ▶ Watch the videoFree cancellation Special offer
This tour is all about experiencing the best of Rio - hiking to stunning peaks, exploring hidden caves, and cooling off in waterfalls within the incredible Tijuca National Park. Along the way, we’ll keep an eye out for wildlife like toucans, monkeys, sloths and coatis, while our guides share fascinating facts and stories about the park.
Rio is world-famous for its breathtaking scenery and is home to one of the largest urban forests on the planet. In this 4–5 hour adventure, we’ll visit the park’s top highlights and immerse you in the unique energy of this natural paradise. To ensure a personalized experience, our groups are always small—no more than 7 people per guide.
✓ Choose from 3 pickup times to fit your Rio schedule: early morning, 10:30 AM(private), or afternoon✓ Certified local guides in English, Spanish & Portuguese, ready to make your adventure unforgettable✓ Pickup is directly from your hotel or apartment within our pickup area — no need to go anywhere else✓ Tour ends with a refreshing bath beneath a natural waterfall✓ Your guide will be happy to take photos during the tour and save them directly to your phone✓ Tijuca National Park entrance included — explore Rio’s lush urban rainforest✓ Enjoy special group discounts when booking for 3+ people (private) or 4+ people (group tour)1 Pedra Bonita
Pedra Bonita is one of Rio’s most incredible summits, located in Tijuca National Park, offering panoramic views of the city, coastline, and iconic landmarks like Pedra da Gávea and Christ the Redeemer. With an easy-to-moderate trail, it’s a perfect spot to experience Rio from above. In case of cloudy weather, we’ll swap Pedra Bonita for another amazing hike with great scenery.
· 1 h
2 Parque Nacional da Tijuca
Tijuca National Park is a lush rainforest oasis in the heart of Rio, filled with waterfalls, wildlife, scenic trails, and breathtaking views—an unforgettable escape into nature!
· 2 h
3 Cascatinha Taunay
The biggest waterfall in the Tijuca National Park. Perfect to take some nice pictures and bath.
This beautiful waterfall stands 40 meters tall, cascading down a rocky cliff into a pool of crystal water. The sound of the falling water resonates through the area, providing a calming atmosphere.
· 15 min
4 Cave Exploration
This 40 meter high cave with light streaming in creates a surreal and breathtaking atmosphere located in the heart of Tijuca Forest. We hiking around 20-30 minutes to get there! On the way we see two other caves!
As you explore further into the cave, you can hear the trickle of the water flowing through the rocks and the echoes of your own footsteps. You feel a sense of awe and wonder as you take in the majestic landscape!
· 15 min
5 Waterfall Bath
A refreshing waterfall bath after hiking is the perfect way to relax and recharge. The cool water soothes tired muscles and leaves you feeling renewed amid the peaceful forest setting.
· 15 min
6 Vista Chinesa
Vista Chinesa is a breathtaking belvedere located in Tijuca National Park, offering sweeping views of Rio de Janeiro. From this iconic spot, you can see Guanabara Bay, Corcovado, the beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema, all framed by the lush greenery of the forest. It’s a peaceful place to pause and take in the natural beauty of the city. Please note: This attraction is closed on weekends!
· 15 min
Mobile or paper ticket accepted. One per booking
SMALL GROUP TOUR: Pick-up is available in Rio’s South Zone and Barra da Tijuca(hotels near the metro and along the beach up to Post 4) where most hotels and vacation rentals are located. Pick-up and drop-off are at the same location. If you’re staying outside these areas, we’ll provide the closest meeting point, or you can choose the private option for more convenience.
PRIVATE TOUR: Pick-up is available anywhere in Rio, including the South Zone, North Zone, Downtown(including Santa Teresa), and all areas of Barra da Tijuca. You can be picked up and dropped off at different locations and bring luggage. If the system doesn’t accept your address, just book and send us your address via chat or WhatsApp.
GIG AIRPORT PICK-UP/ DROP-OFF: Choose the private option. An additional fee applies, depending on group size and day!
Suitable for all physical fitness levels It is recommended that you bring water and wear comfortable clothes, trekking or sport shoes, a bathing suit and sunscreen Itinerary may change a bit due to park rules, weather conditions, or group ability Please send us your full address (street name and building number). If you’re not sure yet, just message us on WhatsApp or chat once you have your address in Rio THE BEST SPOTS IN TIJUCA PARK SMALL GROUP NATURE EXPERINCE: Stunning peaks, hidden caves, waterfalls and wildlife — with passionate local guides, transportation & hotel pickup included! MODERATE ADVENTURE: Ages 10–70. Moderate fitness recommended for small groups. For all ages and fitness levels, choose the private option. HOTEL PICK-UP & DROP-OFF: Pickup is available in Rio’s South Zone and areas of Barra da Tijuca, where most hotels and vacation rentals are located. Pickup included PRIVATE TIJUCA FOREST TOUR YOUR FOREST, YOUR WAY: Enjoy an exclusive Tijuca Forest adventure with a private guide and vehicle, with the freedom to explore at your own pace! CUSTOMIZABLE & FAMILY-FRIENDLY: Tailored to your interests, fitness level and pace — ideal for families, all ages and travelers seeking extra comfort. PICK UP ANYWHERE IN RIO: Enjoy private pickup from anywhere within Rio de Janeiro, including Centro, Santa Teresa and all areas of Barra da Tijuca. Pickup included Wear comfortable trekking or sports shoes. Bring water and wear sunscreen. A swimsuit is recommended for the waterfall. The itinerary may be adjusted due to park regulations or weather. Provide your full address for pickup. The Vista Chinesa viewpoint is closed on weekends. For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Product code: 13847P2
Activity offered by Rio Natural Ecotourism via Viator.
WizardTrip Help Center Nature lovers Hikers Wildlife enthusiasts Photography enthusiasts Families (with private option) Hike to Pedra Bonita for panoramic city views Explore hidden caves and waterfalls Discover diverse wildlife in Tijuca National Park Visit the iconic Vista Chinesa viewpoint Refreshing waterfall bath included Small group sizes for a personalized experience
Population 6,211,223 (2022)
Elevation 31 m
Currency Brazilian real
Official language Portuguese
Driving on the right
Power plugs C, N · 127 V
Emergency number 190
Capital city Brasília Average temperatures 26° Jan 26° Feb 25° Mar 24° Apr 22° May 22° Jun 21° Jul 21° Aug 22° Sept 23° Oct 23° Nov 25° Dec Sources: Wikidata; climate: NASA POWER, 2001-2025 averages.
What is the duration of the tour? + The tour lasts approximately 4-5 hours.
What is the maximum group size? + For small group tours, there are no more than 7 people per guide. For private tours, the group size can be larger.
What languages are available for the guide? + Guides are available in Portuguese, English, and Spanish.
Is pickup included? + Yes, pickup is included from hotels and apartments in Rio's South Zone and Barra da Tijuca for small group tours. Private tours offer pickup anywhere in Rio.
What should I bring on the tour? + It is recommended to bring water, wear comfortable clothes and shoes, a bathing suit, and sunscreen.
What happens if the weather is bad? + In case of cloudy weather, Pedra Bonita may be swapped for another hike with great scenery. The tour is cancelled if it's bad weather.
Reviews provided by Viator, written by travellers on Viator and Tripadvisor.
★★★★★ Viator review
Fantastic Tour
Scott_S, October 2026
This was an awesome tour. Even though the weather wasn't great we still had a good time going through the rainforest and learned a lot. Our guide, Felipe, was very engaging and energetic. We really enjoyed the day.
★★★★★ Viator review
The hike was strenuous (I...
Nancy_P, October 2026
The hike was strenuous (I am 69 and in decent shape). We saw toucans,monkeys and racoons. We did not see any caves, our guide stated there was no time. He spoke primarily to a fellow Brazilian passenger and only answered questions when asked.
Response from the operator · Daniel R Thank you for your feedback. We’re sorry the hike was more challenging than expected and that you couldn’t visit the caves. Our group tour follows a fixed itinerary with a moderate hike. For a more flexible experience tailored to your pace and preferred walking distance, we recommend our private tour. We appreciate your understanding.
RIO NATURAL ECOTOURISM
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Tijuca Forest Hiking - 5/5 experience
nurdana0, October 2026
Amazing hike and views! Our hotel was outside the pickup area, but they team quickly managed to find an alternative option still close to us. Our guide Sylvio was incredible! He always had some fun facts about everything we passed, and since in our case there were some weather issues, he quickly managed to find alternative paths :)
At the end we saw breathtaking views and had a lot of fun. We found that the hike itself can be a little challenging at some small points, so make sure to have proper hiking shoes.
Response from the operator · Daniel R Your positive feedback means a lot to us and motivates our team to keep up the good work.
RIO NATURAL ECOTOURISM
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
A walk up to the sky
Tourist613641, October 2026
The Tour is nice something different but the weather conditions have to be perfect to enjoy the view. That is not the agencies fault.
Response from the operator · Daniel R We hope to see you again soon for another memorable adventure!
RIO NATURAL ECOTOURISM
★★★★★ Viator review
Great tour. Bernardo was...
VladCristian_L, October 2026
Great tour. Bernardo was very friendly and knowledgeable regarding both nature and different facts about Brazil. We had a wonderful time!
Response from the operator · Daniel R Your positive feedback means a lot to us and motivates our team to keep up the good work.
RIO NATURAL ECOTOURISM
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