Add dates

Rio de JaneiroNational parks

Our most recommended Rio de Janeiro National parks

Rio de Janeiro: 6-Stop Highlights of Rio with Lunch

1. Rio de Janeiro: 6-Stop Highlights of Rio with Lunch

Start your adventure with a pickup in the morning from hotels located in the South Zone and head towards your first stop at Christ the Redeemer.  Enjoy great jungle views in the minivan ride through the Tijuca Forest that surrounds the Corcovado Mountain. Reach the peak of the mountain and meet the statue of the Christ the Redeemer with its arms right open over the city. Admire the sweeping views and take breathtaking pictures. Head to a nice walk outside the Maracanã Stadium and find out more about the passion of the Brazilians for football. Learn about the samba tradition in Rio by visiting the Sambadrome, the place with the biggest Carnival parade on the planet. Marvel at the beautiful street art of the Selarón Steps, a gigantic mosaic work of the Chilean artist Jorge Selarón. He started dedicating himself to decorate the stairs in the early 90s. The 250 steps have become a monument and an icon of Rio. Stop at the Metropolitan Cathedral of Rio de Janeiro to revel at the biblical passages on the stained-glass inside it, following a stop for lunch in an all-you-can-eat buffet restaurant. With the batteries recharged, there is still one place left.  Head to Urca neighborhood and marvel at the beauty of the Sugarloaf Mountain and be amazed by the cable ride to the top. From 220 meters above sea level take in the breathtaking 360-degree view of Rio de Janeiro, Guanabara Bay, the city of Niteroi, and the blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean.

Rio: Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf, Selaron & BBQ Lunch

2. Rio: Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf, Selaron & BBQ Lunch

Discover the landmarks of Rio on a full-day guided tour, including pickup and drop off at hotels in Rio. Start with a visit to Corcovado Mountain. Ride by van to the top or board the train, both through the Tijuca Forest. Then, marvel at the main monument of Brazil, the statue of Christ the Redeemer, as you take in panoramic views of Rio. Next, head towards the mythical Maracanã football stadium and observe its imposing façade. Continue to the legendary Sambódromo where the annual Carnival parade takes place. Visit the modern Metropolitan Cathedral of Rio de Janeiro, influenced by Mayan pyramids. Check out the brightly colored tiles of the world-famous Selarón Steps at Lapa, before the lunch break. We have a typical Brazilian steakhouse lunch option if you wish to include it, but remember to choose the "Christ the Redeemer by Van, Sugarloaf, Selaron, BBQ Lunch" or "Christ the Redeemer by Train, Sugarloaf, Selaron, BBQ Lunch" option for a complete experience. After lunch, visit Sugarloaf (ticket included and not included option). Take the cable car to the top in two stages and see one of the most iconic natural landmarks in Rio.

Rio: Christ the Redeemer Official Ticket by Cog Train

3. Rio: Christ the Redeemer Official Ticket by Cog Train

Go all the way up to the iconic statue of Christ the Redeemer by the Corcovado Train. The train rides through a railway inside Tijuca National Park, the largest urban forest in the world, making a unique view over Rio de Janeiro city. Enjoy an amazing ride on a train that takes you right up to the foot of the statue of The Christ, one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World and one of the most famous sights in Brazil. Besides admiring one of the most beautiful landscapes of the city, you will take a walk through Brazil's history. The Corcovado Railroad was the first electrified railroad in Brazil. Inaugurated in 1884 by D. Pedro II, it is older than Christ the Redeemer itself. In fact, it was the train that, during four consecutive years, transported pieces for monument’s construction. Your visit starts on the century-old electric locomotive, riding across the preserved Atlantic Forest, part of the Tijuca National Park. At the foot of the statue of Christ, you'll be able to take in the most beautiful view over the city, and see from above what makes Rio de Janeiro so special.

Rio de Janeiro: Sugarloaf Cable Car Official Ticket

4. Rio de Janeiro: Sugarloaf Cable Car Official Ticket

Discover the world-famous Sugarloaf Mountain with prebooked official tickets for the cable car, and explore one of Brazil's most popular attractions. Admire stunning views of Rio de Janeiro as you ride the cable car to the summit. Take incredible photos from the lookout point as you enjoy the panorama of the city and the ocean below. Make your own way to the foot of Sugarloaf Mountain, and head directly to the ticket office to exchange your printed voucher. Board the next cable car up the mountain, riding in the fully-enclosed cabin as you take in panoramic views of the city, Copacabana Beach, and Guanabara Bay.  Disembark at the top, where you can spend as much time as you wish. There is a food court and restaurant at the summit where you can purchase snacks and drinks. Once you have finished exploring the summit, your ticket is valid for any returning cable car.

Rio de Janeiro: Hang Gliding Tandem Flight

5. Rio de Janeiro: Hang Gliding Tandem Flight

Benefit from pickup from your hotel, São Conrado Subway station, or make your own way to the Brazilian Confederation of Hang Gliding headquarters to meet your instructor.  Then take a 15-minute jeep ride into Tijuca National Park, arriving at the Pedra Bonita Ramp, 1,700 feet (520 meters) above sea level. After a safety briefing and a rehearsal, it's time for takeoff. Take the leap and experience incredible views of the Atlantic Ocean, Rio’s famous beaches, the statue of Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf Mountain, Guanabara Bay and much more.  Your tandem flight ends with a smooth landing on the beach at São Conrado and the entire adventure will be captured by GoPro cameras attached to the wing. Enjoy an unforgettable sightseeing experience in Rio de Janeiro.

Pedra do Telégrafo Hike and Beach Full-Day Tour

6. Pedra do Telégrafo Hike and Beach Full-Day Tour

Located in the Pedra Branca State Park, Pedra do Telégrafo (elevation of 350 meters) is at the top of Guaratiba Hill. Take a walk along the beach to the starting point of the trail. The ascent begins at Guaratiba Beach and it takes about an hour to reach the summit. There are several viewpoints along the way, with the best known being a large, sharp rock called Pedra da Bigorna. From the summit, marvel at the views of the Restinga da Marambaia sandbank, the wild beaches of Rio, Pedra do Pontal, and Grumari Beach. After the walk, relax on the beaches of Grumari or Prainha.

Visit the Best Spots in Tijuca Forest - Hike to Caves & Fall

7. Visit the Best Spots in Tijuca Forest - Hike to Caves & Fall

Feel the vibe of the must-see Tijuca Forest in the heart of Rio de Janeiro, a city world-famous for its stunning views and landscapes. Explore the best spots of the largest urban forest in the world on this 5 hours guided tour, and benefit from hotel pickup and drop-off from hotels or flats in Rio's City Center, Barra or South Zone. The tour includes an experienced guide who will take you to the best spots in the park such as the biggest waterfall (Cascatinha Taunay) and the Vista Chinesa viewpoint. Along the way, you will also learn about the unique flora and fauna of the area, as well as the park's various conservation efforts. The tour typically lasts about five hours, and is a great way to explore one of the most beautiful and diverse areas of the city. Hike to a delightful secret cave and falls and at the end make a stop at São Conrado Beach to see the hang gliding and paragliding landing spot. Throughout your tour, we try to spot some of the local wildlife. On most days, you can see some animals like: small mammals, birds, insects and snakes.

Rio: City Sights Tour with Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf

8. Rio: City Sights Tour with Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf

Embark on a guided tour of Rio and see important highlights, including Christ The Redeemer and Selaron Steps. Ride a cable car to Sugar Loaf and take in the sunset views overlooking Copacabana Beach. Begin your tour with a visit to the Corcovado Mountain. After a 20-minute drive to the base of the statue of Christ the Redeemer through the Tijuca Forest, enjoy a beautiful view of the city and the surrounding landscape. This 710-meter-tall (about 2,330 feet) statue is Brazil's main monument and a World Heritage Site. Next, head towards the Metropolitan Cathedral of Rio de Janeiro and Selarón Stairs before reaching Sugar Loaf by sunset. Located in the Urca neighborhood, it is one of Rio's icons. Board a cable car and ride to the Urca Mount station before continuing on in a cable car to the top of Sugar Loaf. At the top, enjoy the beautiful and panoramic views of Rio de Janeiro. Enjoy one of the most beautiful sunsets in the world while overlooking the Copacabana Beach from the top of Sugar Loaf.

Tijuca Forest: Adventure & History Half-Day Hike

9. Tijuca Forest: Adventure & History Half-Day Hike

Visit a variety of lesser-known attractions in the Tijuca Forest National Park on the Tijuca Forest tour circuit. On a 6,2km (3.8mi) long walk, hike along trails made in the 19th century, a period when this area was occupied by coffee plantations. Discover the history of the park, the world’s largest replanted urban forest. Along the circuit, visit the Cascatinha Taunay, the largest waterfall in the National Park, the Mayrink Chapel from 1850, the Cova da Onça Suspension Bridge, the Eucalyptus Forest which houses an old slave cemetery, and the Morcego’s Grotto, the largest gneiss cave in Brazil. Next, cool off at the Baronesa Cascade waterfall. Then, start the journey back to the starting point passing the former residence of Barão d’Escragnolle, one of the park’s managers in the past (now The Esquilos restaurant). Also see the Wallace Fountain, with a sculpture representing goodness, charity, sobriety and simplicity, a gift from the English philanthropist Richard Wallace to Brazil and produced inFrance in 1870. This circuit combines adventure, history, nature, a waterfall shower, among other things, passing through hidden spots and attractions that reveal the richness and personality of Rio de Janeiro and its tropical rainforest. Hike: MODERATE (6,2km=3.85mi) / 2,5-3h / elev. gain 448m (1,469ft) Requires good fitness to hike on rainforest rough terrain, up and downhill

Rio: Jeep Tour to Botanical Garden and Tijuca Forest

10. Rio: Jeep Tour to Botanical Garden and Tijuca Forest

Immerse yourself in a botanical wonderland! Join us on a captivating journey to the Botanic Garden (Entrance ticket is not included), a royal gem created in 1817 by King John VI of Portugal. This lush paradise is devoted to nurturing exotic plants from across the globe, making it a unique sanctuary of rare species. Witness the awe-inspiring Imperial Palm Trees, the colossal water lilies (Victorias-Regias), and the endangered Brazilian Red Wood trees (Pau Brasil) from the Atlantic Forest. Marvel at the famous greenhouse, home to over 500 delicate orchid species, meticulously cared for by our experts. Next, we'll venture into the Tijuca Atlantic Forest, a breathtaking urban forest that stands as the world's largest. At the mesmerizing Chinese View Belvedere, embrace panoramic vistas of Ipanema and Copacabana beaches, the picturesque Guanabara Bay, and the majestic Sugar Loaf Mountain. Prepare to encounter tropical wildlife, including playful monkeys, graceful sloths, and exotic birds, creating unforgettable moments during the tour. On our way back to your hotel, we'll make a stop at Pepino Beach, where you can watch exhilarating hang gliders take flight, adding a touch of adrenaline to the experience. Embark on this enchanting adventure and discover the natural treasures that Rio de Janeiro has to offer. Book now to secure your place on this botanical and wildlife-filled escapade!

90 activities found
Sort by:
Page 1 of 6

Unmissable attractions

Frequently asked questions about Rio de Janeiro National parks

What are other things to do than National parks that are worth visiting in Rio de Janeiro?

The other unmissable things to do in Rio de Janeiro are:

Other Sightseeing Options in Rio de Janeiro

Want to discover all there is to do in Rio de Janeiro? Click here for a full list.

What people are saying about Rio de Janeiro

Overall rating

4.7 / 5

based on 1,266 reviews

What a fantastic trip planned by Patrica and driver Wagner We can only agree with the other reviews this was a perfect day We saved time lots of time very little queuing so worth every single penny Nothing was too much trouble or rushed Thank you very much Paul & Linda

Sergio was a great guide! Very funny and knowlegeable about the mountain and the favela. Make sure to get ready for some good exercise. Because the hike can be difficult for those who are not in shape. But the view is magnificent!!

I had a great time, the places are beautiful and Rio was hot, the van had a good air conditioner what helped me a lot. The guide was polite even though some people weren’t that polite. Had a great time

We were so pleased with this tour . It was really efficiently run. Renato was an excellent guide. A really good way to get to do the major Rio sights in one day .

Amazing tour. We had a lovely day and saw everything we wanted to see. Very well organized and loved our guide Lavina. Lunch was very good as well, thanks!