Rio’s natural gems (full-day excursion)

The lively city of Rio de Janeiro hides many beautiful oases with lush nature and fantastic beaches. On this trip, you will visit the city’s wonderful green natural areas and experience national parks, protected areas and beautiful beaches off the beaten track – and you might even be lucky enough to spot caimans and capybaras!

The trip is ideal for those who love nature, but who are not all that keen on hiking. You will, in fact, be driven from one beautiful nature area to the next, allowing you simply to enjoy the scenery and soak up the impressions in the beautiful natural surroundings.

The first stop on the trip is the Penhasco Dois Irmãos city park, from where you can enjoy the breathtaking views of the Morro Dois Irmãos rock formation on one side and of the city and the Ipanema and Leblon beaches on the other.

You will then visit Tijuca National Park, which is a lush rainforest in the middle of Rio and one of the world’s largest urban parks. Here you will stop at a beautiful waterfall and Vista Chinesa, which is a belvedere with a Chinese-inspired pavilion offering unique panoramic views of the splendid metropolis, Sugarloaf Mountain and Mount Corcovado with the famous Christ the Redeemer statue.

Before the trip continues to the natural park, Parque Marapendi, there will be time for a lunch break where you can enjoy your packed lunch.
Parque Marapendi is a beautiful natural area created to preserve the local ecosystem, including the remains of the original Atlantic rainforest and mangrove forest. The park has a rich biodiversity, including a number of endangered animal and plant species. You may be lucky enough to spot both caimans and capybaras in the park.

The trip then proceeds to the small beach called Prainha, which is surrounded by mountains and lush rainforest. Prainha is one of the favourite spots for surfers in Rio, so here you will be able to watch surfers riding the waves.

Before the trip heads back to your hotel, there will be a final stop at the viewpoint, Mirante do Roncador, from where you can enjoy views of the western beaches. Along the way, there will be a stop at a secluded beach where you can take a refreshing paddle or dip in the sea.

Remember to bring a day trip backpack with lunch, water (preferably 2 litres), sunscreen and mosquito repellent. We recommend that you wear sportswear, closed shoes and a sun hat.

You provide for lunch yourself. A stop will be made at a supermarket in the morning, where you can buy a sandwich, fruit and water to bring on the trip.

Duration: approx. 8-9 hours

The price is valid for min. two persons

The trip departs Tuesday to Friday (except during the carnival)