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Tijuca Peak Hike

The Tijuca Peak Hike is the perfect adventure for those who want to visit the interior of the Tijuca National Park and connect with the Carioca Atlantic Forest. This tour provides an experience where nature, history, and adventure come together in one of the most preserved areas of Rio de Janeiro.

During the Tijuca Peak Hike, participants will have the opportunity to learn about the history of the Tijuca Forest and National Park, which began to be protected in the mid-19th century. Originally reforested to restore the watersheds that supplied the city, after deforestation for coffee plantations. The area holds remnants of Colonial Brazil and is a true historical and natural heritage.

Tijuca Peak, with its impressive 1,021 meters of altitude, is the tallest mountain in the Tijuca Forest and one of the highest points in Rio de Janeiro. The itinerary includes strategic stops to admire the panoramic views and local biodiversity.

The Tijuca Peak Hike begins at the park’s entrance gate, passing through sections of dense forest and open areas with views of almost the entire park, until reaching the summit of Tijuca Mirim Peak and Tijuca Peak. From the top, you can enjoy the view of the city, including Guanabara Bay, Maracanã, and Pedra da Gávea.

Get ready for an experience that combines contemplation, learning, and direct contact with nature. This activity is ideal for those seeking unforgettable moments in the Carioca Atlantic Forest, in the heart of Rio de Janeiro.

Highlights of the Tijuca Peak Hike – Rio de Janeiro

Highlights of the Tijuca Peak Hike

Conquer the highest mountain in the Tijuca Forest
Explore the interior of Tijuca National Park
One of the richest and most beautiful tours in Rio de Janeiro

Photos of the Tijuca Peak Hike

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Videos of the Tijuca Peak Hike

Price: Open Group

45,00 USD Per person for payments with Credit Card, PayPal, or WeTravel (up to 6x without interest).

Open Group – Regular: several clients interested in doing the hike on the same date.
Private Group: exclusive for the client who made the reservation.*Minimum quorum of 2 participants for the Open/Regular Group activity to take place. If you are alone, we can fit you into other groups. Nattrip will do its best to ensure the minimum quorum is met. If your activity doesn’t take place, you may reschedule the activity or request a refund of the amounts paid.

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+55 (21) 96931-8893 (Whtasapp)

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Itinerary and information about the Tijuca Peak Hike

Itinerary of the Tijuca Peak Hike

What is the Tijuca Peak Hike like?

Discover the Tijuca Peak Hike in the Tijuca Forest

On this tour through the Tijuca Forest, we will visit the visitor center and museum of the Tijuca National Park, the Taunay Waterfall, the Cachoeira das Almas, the Tijuca Mirim Peak viewpoint, the legendary stairway carved into the rock, built in the early 20th century for the visit of King Albert of Belgium, and the imposing Tijuca Peak.

Despite the altitude, the trails are not steep all the time, providing us with some of the most spectacular views and viewpoints in the city of Rio de Janeiro. From its summit, you can see the main Peaks and Mountains of the city.

Itinerary of the Tijuca Peak Hike

Meeting Point:
The starting point is Praça Afonso Vizeu, located in Alto da Boa Vista, where our adventure begins.

Start of the Hike:
The hike takes place in Sector A of the Tijuca National Park, lasting 6 to 8 hours (round trip) and covering a total distance of 11 km, passing through dense forest sections and stunning landscapes.

Bom Retiro:
After about 1 hour of walking through trails and park roads, we reach Largo do Bom Retiro, a strategic point and reference for the start of trails that lead to the highest mountains in the Tijuca Forest.

Tijuca Peak Summit:
After another 1.5 hours of hiking from Largo do Bom Retiro, we reach the summit of Tijuca Peak, at 1,021 meters above sea level, the highest point of the Tijuca National Park. From the top, we are rewarded with an amazing panoramic view that encompasses much of Rio de Janeiro.

Tijuca Mirim:
On the descent, we stop to visit the summit of Tijuca Mirim, a smaller but equally fascinating mountain, which adds to the experience.

Cachoeira das Almas:
We end the day with a refreshing swim at Cachoeira das Almas, a true gift to rejuvenate both body and mind in the heart of the forest.

End of the Hike:
With a renewed spirit, we finish the hike and return to the starting point, concluding an unforgettable experience of connection with nature and personal achievement.

Book the Tijuca Peak Hike and come discover all the charms, beauty, and history of the Tijuca Forest!

What’s included?

What’s included in the Tijuca Peak Hike?

Includes:

Adventure Tourism Guide or Leader specialized in Trails and Hiking
Guided hike to Tijuca Peak, Tijuca Mirim Peak viewpoint, Tijuca National Park Museum, and Cachoeira das Almas
Personal accident insurance

Does not include:

Transportation to the tour location (optional)
Any items not described as included
Personal face mask (mandatory). For your safety, we recommend wearing your mask before leaving home (or the place where you are staying).

What to bring?

Starting Location and Times

How to get there?

How to get to the Tijuca Peak Hike?

Check how to get to Tijuca Peak: located in the heart of Tijuca National Park, Tijuca Peak is the highest point of the park, standing at 1,022 meters above sea level. The hike offers a spectacular view of the city of Rio de Janeiro, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking adventure and a connection with nature.

Where is the Tijuca Peak Hike?

The Tijuca Peak Hike starts in Sector A of Tijuca National Park, known as the Bom Retiro sector. The initial access is via Estrada do Alto da Boa Vista, where you’ll find the park entrance with visitor infrastructure, such as restrooms and parking. From the entrance, the hike follows a well-marked trail that passes through sections of dense forest, historical points, and panoramic viewpoints until reaching the summit of Tijuca Peak.

The starting point of the Tijuca Peak Hike is at the following location:

How to get to the Tijuca Peak Hike by bus?

For those taking the bus to the trail’s starting point, look for a line that passes through Estrada do Alto da Boa Vista and get off at the closest stop to the Bom Retiro sector entrance of Tijuca National Park. From there, you will need to follow a short walk to the park’s main entrance.

How to get to the Tijuca Peak Hike by car?

If you choose to go by car, drive along Estrada do Alto da Boa Vista to the Bom Retiro sector. Parking is available near the park entrance, making it easy to access the trail.

Nattrip offers daily departures with a professional guide and transportation option for the Tijuca Peak Hike. Check it out and come explore this amazing experience with safety and convenience!

Best Time

Best time to do the Tijuca Peak Hike

The Tijuca Peak Hike can be done throughout the year, but weather conditions directly affect the safety and enjoyment of the hike. Choosing the best time to embark on this adventure is essential to guarantee an unforgettable and safe experience.

Best period: Autumn and Winter (March to September)

Weather: During autumn and winter, Rio de Janeiro experiences milder temperatures, usually between 18°C and 25°C, with less rainfall. This dry climate is ideal for hiking as it provides greater safety on steep sections.
Clear skies: Low humidity contributes to days with blue skies and great visibility. From the top of Tijuca Peak, you’ll have amazing views of various city landmarks, such as Guanabara Bay, Maracanã, and Pedra da Gávea.
Comfort during the hike: With more pleasant temperatures, the physical effort required for the hike is more bearable, making the walk even more enjoyable.

Summer (December to March)

High temperatures: Summer in Rio can be very hot, with temperatures above 35°C. This increases physical strain and the risk of dehydration during the hike. Be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen.
Heavy rainfall: Summer is also marked by heavy rains and typical seasonal storms that can make the terrain slippery, especially on the steeper uphill sections.
Fog: Excess humidity can cause fog, impairing visibility and compromising the scenic experience.

Spring (September to November)

Intermediate weather: Spring is a good time for the hike, especially at the beginning of the season. Temperatures are moderate, and there is less chance of rain, creating favorable conditions for a safe and pleasant hike.

Choosing the right time to take on the Tijuca Peak Hike makes all the difference in enjoying this unique experience in contact with nature, admiring the spectacular landscapes of Rio de Janeiro!

History of Tijuca Peak

History of Tijuca Peak – The Guardian of the Tijuca Forest

Tijuca Peak is one of the highest and most iconic points in Rio de Janeiro, standing at 1,022 meters above sea level. Located in the heart of the Tijuca National Park, the peak offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and carries a rich history that blends environmental preservation, exploration, and Carioca culture.

Origin of the Name

The name “Pico da Tijuca” comes from Tupi, the language of the indigenous people who inhabited the region, and means “dirty water” or “stagnant water.” This name refers to the watercourses in the area, which had a dark color due to the decomposition of organic matter in the forest. Despite the peculiar name, the region is a true natural oasis and a historical landmark in environmental preservation in Brazil.

History and Preservation

During the colonial period, the Tijuca Forest was heavily deforested for coffee cultivation, leading to a severe water crisis in Rio de Janeiro in the 19th century. In response, Emperor D. Pedro II ordered the reforestation of the area, marking the beginning of one of the world’s first environmental preservation efforts. Tijuca Peak, as an integral part of the park, became a symbol of this recovery and conservation process of the Atlantic Forest.

The Emperor’s Path

One of the most fascinating stories of Tijuca Peak is the visit of D. Pedro II in 1853. To receive him, a stairway was carved directly into the rock, which still facilitates access to the summit today. This engineering feat remains one of the trail’s main features, providing a unique experience for adventurers who wish to reach the top.

Biodiversity and Environmental Importance

Tijuca Peak is located within the Tijuca National Park, which houses one of the largest urban forests in the world. This area is a refuge for countless species of fauna and flora from the Atlantic Forest, many of which are endemic and endangered. Additionally, the peak is an important water source for the city and an example of how the coexistence between nature and urbanization is possible.

A Challenge for Adventurers

The Tijuca Peak Hike is considered moderate, with about 6 km in total length (round trip) and offers a journey full of surprises. The route includes shaded sections through dense forest, streams, and natural viewpoints. The climax of the adventure is reaching the summit and enjoying a view that spans Guanabara Bay, Maracanã, Pedra da Gávea, and, on clear days, even the Serra dos Órgãos.

Tijuca Peak Today

Today, Tijuca Peak is a popular destination for photographers and nature lovers seeking a peaceful and inspiring retreat. Its historical and environmental significance makes it an unmissable place for those wanting to experience the connection between the rich biodiversity of the Atlantic Forest and the history of Rio de Janeiro.

Live this unique experience and discover the charms of the Tijuca Peak Hike with Nattrip!

7:30

Meeting Point
8:00

Start of the hike
Sector A – Tijuca National Park
Walking time: 6 to 8 hours (round trip)
Distance: 11 km (round trip)
9:00

Bom Retiro
After 1 hour of hiking uphill through trails and roads in Tijuca National Park, we reach Largo do Bom Retiro, a landmark for the start of the trails leading to the highest mountains of the forest.
10:30

Summit of Pico da Tijuca
After 1.5 hours of hiking from Largo do Bom Retiro, we reach the 1,021 meters of altitude of Tijuca Peak, the highest point of Tijuca National Park.
11:30

Tijuca Mirim
During the descent, we will visit the summit of Tijuca Mirim.
15:00

Almas Waterfall
After the day of hiking, we will take a break for a waterfall bath in the middle of the forest.
16:00

End of the Hike
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