Botanical Gardens & Tijuca Forest 4X4 Drive

Discover the serene beauty of a nature lover’s paradise as you tour the Botanical Gardens and experience the cool, green realm of Tijuca National Park.

Begin with a scenic transfer by open-air jeep to the Botanical Gardens, passing Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon and the residential area known as Jardim Botanico due to its proximity to the Botanical Gardens. This lush oasis was inaugurated in 1808 by King Dom João VI. As in imperial times, the gardens have remained a haven of peace amid a teeming metropolis. A guided walk at a leisurely pace will let you enjoy the many varieties of plants and examples of endangered species. The most striking features are the transverse avenues of 90-foot-high royal palms. In addition to the flora, the gardens are also home of some 140 species of birds and monkeys living in the trees. Your guide will show you the orchid nursery and the insect-eating plants house. Half natural jungle, half laid out in beautifully landscaped gardens; visitors never fail to enjoy spending time in these magical surroundings.

From the Botanical Gardens, you’ll head to the western fringes of Rio, where various forests were united to form an 8,200-acre national park. Your 4-wheel drive vehicle will take you through mountainous areas and deep into the lush, green forest. A stop will be made at the Chinese Lookout where you can enjoy great views of the Corcovado and Sugar Loaf mountains, Ipanema and Leblon beaches and the Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon from the Chinese-style pavilion here.

Your drive then continues to the Taunay Waterfalls where you will make a final stop before driving back to the pier.