Rainforest Hike in Rio: Tijuca Waterfalls, Wildlife & Caves
Overview
Available languages
5 hours
Mobile ticket
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.
Additional Info
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.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
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
Meeting and Pickup
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
What To Expect
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.
Options
Private Tour
Refresh and escape the heat: Cool off amidst the tropical waterfalls of Tijuca Park!
Private Tour: This tour option offers a private guide exclusively for your group.
Pickup Area: Pick-up is available from all addresses within the Centro, South, and West zones.
Difficulty: Easy/Moderate: Time spent in Tijuca Park: 3 hours approx., with stops at waterfalls and caves.
Pickup included
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
Reviews
819 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Serene, beautiful, family nature retreat
Judy D,
Aug 9, 2025
- Viator
5.00This was a beautiful, peaceful retreat from the excitement of Rio. The Tinuca National Park is a treasure. The trails and waterfalls are quiet and serene. My family enjoyed the bat cave and time to just be together . It was a little slice of heaven. . Our guide Pedro was patient kind and knowledgeable about the history and science of the area.. We saw animals up close and enjoyed amazing views of Rio. Bring water and snacks and bug spray.
Rainforest in the City
James B,
Aug 9, 2025
- Viator
5.00Nice walk/hike in a Brazilian rainforest with some limited, steep, ups and downs, chance for animal sightings, interesting history of colonial/ post colonial period exploitation for commercial purposes, interesting information about a number of indigenous and invasive trees and plants, great views (and photo ops) of waterfalls and cave. Great Brazilian rainforest experience on an otherwise totally urban adventure in Rio. Our guide was professional and enthusiastic.
This tour was great!
Kirk H,
Aug 1, 2025
- Viator
5.00The Tijuca National Park is huge and very beautiful. This tour was a relaxing mix of visiting waterfalls and caves, plus some walking in the rainforest. Our guide Rodrigo was awesome, knowledgeable, happy to share information, very relaxed. I strongly recommend this tour if you want to see a rainforest just outside of Rio.
Very good experience....
Jorge T,
Jul 31, 2025
- Viator
5.00Very good experience. We were picked up at the agreed time, the guide was very attentive. I would repeat DE anyway when I came back.
Very good
Maria S,
Jul 30, 2025
- Viator
5.00Very nice walk. Pedro a very informed guide and it was a nice tour. Good ES they're small groups.
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Operated by Itaway Ecotours