Take an Unforgettable Hike in One of the Largest Urban Forests in the World

Floresta da Tijuca

Exploring the Trails of the Tijuca Forest is an Experience that Combines Adventure, History, and Environmental Conservation

The Tijuca National Park is a slice of the Atlantic Forest in the heart of Rio de Janeiro. A true green oasis stretching over more than 3,000 hectares, it is the largest urban forest in the world. It is also home to a rich biodiversity, including endangered species of flora and fauna. It is the ideal destination for those seeking a natural escape in the middle of the city!

Did you know? Tijuca National Park is divided into 4 sectors: Floresta da Tijuca, Serra da Carioca, Pedra Bonita and Gávea, and Pretos Forros/Covanca. The only sector not open to visitors is Pretos Forros/Covanca. The others are full of attractions for everyone to enjoy! Today’s experience is in the Floresta da Tijuca sector.

Trails for Every Taste

Trekking enthusiasts love the Tijuca Forest. It offers a variety that ranges from short walks to full-day expeditions. There are options for all fitness levels. Add to that the beautiful waterfalls, caves, peaks, ruins of old coffee farms, lush landscapes, and the nature around you! Choose the option that suits you best and dive into the experience!

Castelos da Taquara

How about a little-explored trail that will take you to an incredible view of Rio de Janeiro? The choice is the Castelos da Taquara trail – rock formations at the top of Morro da Taquara that resemble castle towers. It is more than 10 kilometers long, taking 4 to 5 hours of trekking with some steep climbs, but it is worth every drop of sweat! Grab your backpack and let’s hit the trail!

Everything starts at the Visitor Center. The trail is very well marked, but it is ideal to always be in the company of a certified guide who knows the area well. Before starting the hike, the guide will explain the entire route and talk about the sites you will see along the way.

Throughout the trail, the guide will share the history of the Tijuca Forest – how it was cleared for coffee planting and reforested in the 19th century – along with some history of Rio de Janeiro and curiosities about the Atlantic Forest biome. A true immersion in history!

Following the Trail

The first 30 minutes are very easy, until you reach Cova da Onça – which is nothing more than a cavity in the rock, similar to a den. The entire path is practically flat and you will feel like you are walking through a grove! Besides Cova da Onça, another highlight of this stretch is the Suspension Bridge, a small bridge built to assist in crossing a stream. You will see some streams along the way. Take the opportunity to cool off from the Rio de Janeiro heat!

From Cova da Onça, the trail turns into a winding and somewhat tiring climb. This second section ends at a sign with very interesting information about the trail. Here is the moment to catch your breath, as the next part is a steep climb! Be sure to hydrate well!

At the end of the third section of the trail, you will reach a fork: the left side takes you to the summit of Morro da Taquara, and the right side leads to the Castelos da Taquara. Since it is more easily accessible, it is best to go to Morro da Taquara first.

Morro da Taquara

Morro da Taquara is a small clearing in the forest with a wonderful viewpoint! You can see Pedra do Conde, Pico da Tijuca, Morro do Corcovado, and Guanabara Bay. It is magnificent!

Back to Castelos da Taquara

Leaving Morro da Taquara, you return to the trail and head towards Castelos da Taquara. Just before reaching the Castelos, you will come across another viewpoint with a beautiful view of the western part of Rio de Janeiro. You can see Pedra da Gávea, Pedra Bonita, and Agulhinha da Gávea up close, but in the background, you can also see Pedra do Pontal and Pedra da Tartaruga. An impressive view!

The walk is quick! Soon you will be at Castelos da Taquara. There are three huge rocks. You can climb two of them, but follow your guide’s instructions as climbing equipment and, of course, safety are necessary.

Recharging Your Energy

The way back ends at Cascata da Baronesa, a delightful waterfall to cool off after an intense hike like Castelos da Taquara. It is located just below the Ponte da Baronesa – named after Baronesa d’Escragnolle, wife of Barão d’Escragnolle, one of the people responsible for the reforestation and beautification of the Tijuca Forest.

The place is secluded, the waterfall is quite generous, and the trail is very easy. Just arrive and enjoy! After all, your experience ends here!

Stay Tuned!

To enjoy this experience, be prepared! Wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for long hikes. Bring a backpack with swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and, of course, plenty of water and snacks. This tour can be done at any time of the year, but it is good to be aware of periods with a higher incidence of rain. When hiring a certified guide, check for the availability of professionals who speak other languages, such as English and Spanish. With everything, ready, just enjoy!

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