Venture into the Tijuca Rain Forest in an open jeep and discover a tropical forest in a large city. Drive past the "Cachoeira dos macacos" (monkey's waterfall) and learn about the importance of the reforestation process of the "Mata Atlântica" (Atlantic Forest) at "Vista Chinesa" (Chinese view). Tijuca National Park is the largest city-surrounded urban forest and the second largest urban forest in the world. Photo opportunities abound as you pass the "Mesa do Imperador" (Emperor's table), Cascatinha (Taunay's waterfall), and Capela Mayrink (Mayrink Chapel). Continue with a 1-hour hike on an easy trail to learn more about and have direct interaction with the flora and fauna of this unique ecosystem. This tour is highlighted by the variety of tropical fruits, trees, monkeys, and the multitude of birds and butterflies that live in this unique forest.

Explore Tijuca National Forest in meticulously restored ex-military open-air off-road vehicles. After hotel pick-up, cut to the Lagoa with the striking view of the Christ statue and head to the rainforest. Stop at the famous Vista Chinesa to discover the history of this unique monument as you'll soak in the views of the Christ Statue in the distance. Move on to the Cascatinha Visconde de Taunay waterfall, and take a quick dip in the crystal clear refreshing water. Continue to a charming chapel constructed in 1855, and start the first of 2 trails. See coatis, toucans, and monkeys! Take a restroom stop and start the second trail of the tour, passing through the Atlantic forest with the sounds of waterfalls following your footsteps. Hop back into your top-down Jeep and head to the famous São Conrado Beach to watch the hand-gliders, before your scenic drive back to your hotel.

Experience the diverse nature of Rio de Janeiro up close. Begin your tour at the Botanical Garden and visit the Sensory Garden. See the Brazilwood tree after which the country is named, the Turtle Lake and floating giant water lilies. Walk through the bicentenary imperial palm trees as you go to the Orchidarium and Bromeliad house.   Then, climb up to the Vista Chinesa gazebo and enjoy a panoramic view of Rio de Janeiro with mountains, forests, and ocean at 388 meters (about 1,273 feet) above sea level. In the distance, you can also clearly make out Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain.   Next, go on an adventure through Tijuca National Forest, one of the largest urban forests in the world. Gaze up at the Taunay Waterfall and follow a simple trail as you learn more about the Atlantic Forest, its flora and fauna.   Once back in the vehicle, pass by the famous São Conrado beach to observe the hang gliders and paragliders. Take in breathtaking panoramic views on route back to the hotel.

Discover the natural wonders of Rio de Janeiro on a guided tour that visits Tijuca Forest, Rio’s botanical garden, Cascatinha Taunay, and the Chinese Viewpoint, including round-trip transportation from your hotel. Walk along a trail and immerse yourself in all the nature of Rio. After pickup, your trip starts at the Chinese Viewpoint. At an altitude of 388 meters, admire panoramic views of Rio de Janeiro, filled with mountains, forests, and the sea. In the distance, you can also see Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain. Later, go on an adventure through the Tijuca National Forest, one of the largest urban forests in the world. Be enchanted by the Cascatinha Taunay (waterfall) as you walk along a simple trail and learn more about the Atlantic Forest, its flora, and its fauna. Admire breathtaking panoramic views en route back to your hotel. Your tour ends at the Rio de Janeiro Botanical Garden, with a visit to the sensory garden. Finish off your trip by learning more about local and international flora at the gardens. Spot the redwood tree, from which the country received its name, and stroll among the bicentennial imperial palm trees as you walk to the orchidarium and the bromeliad greenhouse.

Pedra Bonita (Beautiful Stone) is located in the Tijuca's National Park, in São Conrado (696 m / 2284 ft). It is one of the best options for those looking for a good relationship between time and attractiveness. Most of the climb is by car or van and includes a visit to the paragliding ramp. The trail is wide open and takes around 45 minutes, considered easy, to reach an amazing ridge. As Pedra Bonita is very close to Pedra da Gávea, the view is fantastic and covers most of the city's sights. Enjoy one of the 5 best views of Rio. * Hiking duration: 1:30 hours (approx. 45 min. way up / 45 min. way down). * Vista Chinesa (Chinese Belvedere) - visitation only in weekdays, except local holidays.