Christ the Redeemer, Brazil
All attractions

Tijuca National Park

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Christ the Redeemer, Brazil

Photo by Raphael Nogueira

As you step into the lush grandeur of Tijuca National Park, the melody of tropical birdsong fills the air around you. Each leaf and stone seems to whisper tales of the past — the park, intriguingly, is a resurrected rainforest planted by hand in the late 1800s to protect Rio de Janeiro’s water sources. The verdant swathes of green folding over mountaintops make the bustling city seem a world away, yet it's right on Rio’s doorstep, a marvel of restoration and conservation efforts that have shaped one of the largest urban forests on the planet.

Visiting Info

Currency
Entrance fee
Free
Hours
Opening hours
Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Contact Information

Location
Address
| Santa Teresa - Estr. da Cascatinha, 850, Estrada das Paineiras, S/N - Alto da Boa Vista, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 20531-590, Brazil
Phone
Website

Planning your visit

If a visit to Tijuca National Park is beckoning, knowing when and how to approach this emerald enclave will enhance your experience. Visit during Brazil's fall or winter months (March to September) to avoid the heavy rains and intense heat of summer. Early morning or late afternoon is ideal to catch the forest bathed in golden sunlight. Reaching the park is easiest by car or taxi, though buses do run nearby, leaving a short hike to enter its leafy realms.

  • Best time to visit: Brazil's fall or winter (March to September)
  • How to get there: Car, taxi, or bus
  • Accessibility: Suitable for families and seniors, though hiking areas may be challenging
  • Average visit duration: Half a day to a full day

Must-see stuff

The park is renowned not just for its breathtaking landscapes, but for landmarks like the Christ the Redeemer statue atop Corcovado Mountain, offering panoramic views of Rio. Don't miss the Mayrink Chapel with its murals painted by Cândido Portinari, or the enchanting Taunay Waterfall. Adventurous souls can explore the caves scattered around the park, like the Gruta Luís Fernandes.

  • Key sights: Christ the Redeemer, Mayrink Chapel, Taunay Waterfall
  • Unique experiences: Explore caves, guided ecological tours
  • Photo-worthy locations: Vista Chinesa, Emperor's Table
  • Cultural facts: The park is a reforested area, originally destroyed by coffee cultivation

Tips for your visit

To truly enjoy Tijuca’s majesty, start early to intercept the soft light perfect for photos while avoiding the midday crowds. Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a refillable water bottle — staying hydrated is key. Despite its proximity to the city, Tijuca feels worlds apart, so prepare as if for a rural hike. Adhere to park rules by not feeding the wildlife and carrying out all the trash you bring in to help maintain its pristine condition.

  • Best times to avoid crowds: Early mornings or weekdays
  • What to bring: Water, camera, comfy shoes, snacks
  • Local etiquette: Do not feed wildlife, pick plants, or leave trash
  • Safety advice: Stay on marked trails, be wary of slippery paths post-rain