Rainforest Hike in Rio: Tijuca Waterfalls, Wildlife & Caves
Discover Rio’s Tijuca Rainforest on a guided jungle hike with waterfalls, caves, and chances to spot wild animals. Perfect for nature lovers seeking an eco-friendly adventure in Brazil’s tropical forest.
Morning pickup is 7:00–7:30 AM year-round. Afternoon pickup: 1:00 PM (May–Oct) or 1:30 PM (Nov–Mar). Times may vary by location; Copacabana is first.
Stay alert for the vibrant wildlife that inhabits the park! While exploring, you might catch a glimpse of cuatis, monkeys, toucans, turtles, frogs, and even sloths. Who knows what surprises nature has in store for you?
The trails range from easy to moderate, with some elevation to reach caves and waterfalls, so basic physical conditioning is recommended. All waterfalls have crystal-clear natural water from the park’s pristine basins.
Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!
*Participants should be able to hike short sections with some elevation.
Options
Group Tour
Refresh and escape the heat: Cool off amidst the tropical waterfalls of Tijuca Park!
Starting time: Morning: 7–8 AM
Afternoon: 1–2 PM
Car or Van: Pickup in air-conditioned vehicle included from Copacabana, Ipanema, Leblon, São Conrado only.
Difficulty: Easy/Moderate: Time spent in Tijuca Park: 3 hours approx., with stops at different caves and waterfalls.
Pickup included
What's included in Rainforest Hike in Rio: Tijuca Waterfalls, Wildlife & Caves
(Subject to Option Inclusions)Itinerary
Mirante das canoas
Our initial destination is Mirante das Canoas, a stunning viewpoint offering vistas of the Pedra da Gavea and Pedra Bonita mountains, as well as the Sao Conrado neighborhood. Following a brief stop, we'll proceed directly to Tijuca Park, just 15 minutes away.
Cascatinha Taunay
*Please note that the itinerary and times may change depending on the park's restrictions, the chosen tour option, weather conditions, and other factors. Witness the awe-inspiring Taunay Waterfall, the tallest in Rio, which cascades down from great heights and provides a serene atmosphere in the heart of the rainforest.
This is one of the first grottos on the caves circuit within Tijuca National Park.
Inclusions
- Roundtrip Transfer: Air-Conditioned Vehicle (Copacabana, Ipanema, Leblon, São Conrado only)
- Tickets for Tijuca National Park
- Knowledgeable & Passionate guide
- Multilingual Tour: English (Primary), Spanish & Portuguese
- Food, Beverages, and Additional Expenses
- Tips or Gratuity
- Pickup and drop-off outside Copacabana, Ipanema, Leblon, and São Conrado
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- The trails range from easy to moderate, with some elevation to reach caves and waterfalls, so basic physical conditioning is recommended.
- Tip: We recommend booking on weekdays for a quieter experience and a higher chance of spotting wildlife. However, if the weekend is your only option, don’t worry—you’ll still enjoy an amazing tour!
- Wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed since animals roam freely and are influenced by weather, time of day, and season.
- Tour duration may be affected by traffic, especially in a busy city like Rio, where congestion can sometimes extend the tour time. We STRONGLY ADVISE AGAINST booking on days with important commitments (flights, tours, etc.) as delays are possible. Morning tours typically offer a smoother experience.
- Itinerary is subject to change based on various factors such as the park's regulations, prevailing natural conditions, and the physical capabilities of the group.
- From May to October, reduced rainfall can impact the flow of certain waterfalls, affecting the itinerary. Please note that photos are for reference only and may reflect conditions during the wetter months.
- Rainy weather does not affect the scheduled tour of the forest, which is known to be more enchanting and lively during such weather. The waterfalls are more magnificent and the chances of spotting wild animals increase during rainfall. Visitors are guaranteed a safe and unforgettable experience in the forest, regardless of the weather conditions.
Meet
Pickup and Dropoff
Choose to be picked up from a list of locations
Please arrive at the pick up point 45 minutes before departure time.
Additional Information
Group Tours: Pick up covered from Copacabana, Ipanema, Leblon, São Conrado. Starting time: Morning: 7–8 AM Afternoon: 1–2 PM Private tours include pickup anywhere in Rio municipality at the time chosen. -Pickups in Centro, Santa Teresa & Lapa (SDU Airport Included): +US$ 25 -Pickups in Barra da Tijuca: +US$ 50 ADDITIONAL PICKUP SERVICE MUST BE REQUESTED AT LEAST 3 DAYS IN ADVANCE.