Tijuca National Park

History and Curiosities of the Tijuca Forest

The mission of reforesting the area of the current Tijuca National Park was entrusted to Major Manuel Gomes Archer , who began the work with the support of six enslaved people, as well as overseers, managers and salaried workers. In just 13 years, more than 100,000 trees were planted, prioritizing native species of the Atlantic Forest .

His successor, Baron d'Escragnolle , not only maintained the reforestation, but also initiated a landscaping project focused on preservation and public use, transforming the forest into a space for leisure and contemplation. To this end, he relied on the talent of the French landscaper Auguste Glaziou , who created nooks, fountains, lakes and trails. To this day, the famous eucalyptus avenue and some gardens are legacies of this project.

Reforestation continued in the following years, combined with natural regeneration, giving rise to the largest replanted urban forest in the world, in the heart of the Tijuca Massif .

In the 1940s, the Forest underwent a revitalization process led by businessman and patron Raymundo Ottoni de Castro Maya . Under his management, attractions such as the Esquilos, Floresta and Cascatinha restaurants were opened, in addition to the paving of internal roads and the creation of new leisure spaces, with projects signed by renowned landscaper Roberto Burle Marx .

In 1961 , the Tijuca Massif, including the regions of Paineiras, Corcovado, Gávea Pequena, Trapicheiro, Andaraí, Três Rios and Covanca , was officially transformed into the Rio de Janeiro National Park , with an initial area of 33 km². In 1967 , the name was changed to Tijuca National Park , and in 2004 , a Federal Decree expanded its limits to 39.51 km² , incorporating important areas such as Parque Lage, Serra dos Pretos Forros and Morro da Covanca .

In addition to its incomparable natural wealth, the park holds a valuable historical and cultural heritage, the result of more than four centuries of human occupation, which today forms part of a protected and valued collection, both for conservation and for environmental education.

Important Tips for Visiting Tijuca National Park with Consciousness and Safety

Tijuca National Park is one of the largest urban parks in the world and is home to one of the most important human-replanted forests on the planet. It is a true green haven in the heart of Rio de Janeiro, full of trails, viewpoints, waterfalls and an enchanting biodiversity.

However, in order for us to continue enjoying such beauty, it is essential that all visitors practice conscious tourism and respect the park's rules. Taking care of nature is everyone's responsibility!

Why do these rules exist?

Tijuca National Park is an environmentally protected area that preserves fauna, flora and water resources essential to the city. Small mistakes can have major impacts on the environment.

Therefore, before your visit, check these guidelines:

Rules and Precautions in Tijuca National Park

• Do not feed the animals: This may seem like a loving gesture, but it harms the health of the fauna and interferes with the natural balance.

• Trash belongs in the trash (including organic waste) : Fruit peels, paper and any type of waste must be taken away or discarded in the trash cans.

• Do not bring pets: They are not part of the ecosystem and can create imbalances, as well as risks to local fauna.

• Do not remove anything from nature: Plants, flowers, seeds, stones and other elements are part of the environment and should remain where they are.

• Lighting bonfires is prohibited: The risk of fires is high and the damage can be irreversible.

• Do not leave offerings: Items such as candles, food and objects pollute, affect animals and contaminate waterways.

• Use only official trails: Shortcuts cause erosion, destroy vegetation and put your safety at risk.

• Cell phone signal may be weak: Plan your route, take offline maps and, if possible, go with someone or a guide.

Waterfalls: Where is it allowed to bathe?

Bathing is permitted in the following areas:

• Waterfall of Souls (Forest Sector)

• Paineiras Showers

• Horto Waterfalls (Quebra, Chuveiro and Primates)

Use of bicycles:

Allowed on paved roads and trails designed for mountain biking.

Overnight stay in the Park:

Only allowed with authorization from the administration, in specific situations.

Restricted vehicles:

Trucks, large buses and driving school vehicles must not access the park's internal roads.

Commercial activities, filming and events:

Prior authorization from the Park is required, including the use of sound equipment and any type of commercialization.

Practice Conscious Tourism!

Respecting nature is ensuring that this paradise continues to exist for future generations. Enjoy every moment in Tijuca National Park with responsibility, love and care.

If you want to live this experience in an even safer and more enriching way, count on us at Rodrigo Indio Tours !

The Fauna of Tijuca National Park: A Natural Treasure in the Heart of Rio

Tijuca National Park is home to a rich fauna that is essential for the environmental balance of the largest replanted urban forest in the world. It is home to everything from small invertebrates to medium-sized mammals, creating a vibrant ecosystem full of life.

Among invertebrates , we find flatworms, molluscs, annelids and a wide variety of arthropods, such as insects, spiders and butterflies. Although they often go unnoticed, they perform vital functions: they help in the decomposition of organic matter, participate in the cycling of nutrients, pollinate plants and are a fundamental base of the food chain.

Vertebrates are visible protagonists in the forest. They are fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals that, in addition to enchanting those who visit the park, maintain the ecological balance. The interaction between these animals and the environment is essential for the regeneration of the forest, seed dispersal and natural control of species.

The park is home to a variety of birds, such as toucans, thrushes and tanagers, as well as marmosets, sloths, opossums, snakes, lizards and a multitude of amphibians and insects, which make each trail a surprise at every step.

Exploring Tijuca National Park is much more than just hiking — it’s connecting with the life that pulses in every corner of this forest and understanding the importance of conserving this unique ecosystem.

Mammals of Tijuca National Park: Guardians of the Forest

Tijuca National Park , one of the largest urban forests in the world, is home to a rich diversity of wildlife. There are currently 63 species of medium and small mammals , which play an essential role in the ecological balance of the Atlantic Forest biome.

Among the most famous inhabitants of the forest, the following stand out: Capuchin monkey ( Sapajus spp. ) – Agile and intelligent, this primate is one of the most observed by visitors. Also known as the crested monkey , it lives in groups and impresses with its ability to use tools to break seeds and hunt small animals. Bush dog ( Cerdocyon thous ) – A discreet and adaptable canine that roams silently through the forest. Common sloth ( Bradypus variegatus ) – This friendly resident of the treetops charms with its slow pace and calm gaze. Coati ( Nasua nasua ) – The charismatic symbol of the park, easy to spot on trails and viewpoints. It lives in groups and is always curious about food. Hummingbird bat ( Glossophaga soricina ) – Small, essential for the pollination of several plants in the forest. Caxinguelê ( Sciurus aestuans ) – The Brazilian squirrel, which runs through the trees carrying seeds, helping to regenerate the forest. In addition to these, it is possible to find animals such as the lesser anteater , paca , agouti , tapiti , hedgehog , opossum , among others.

Losses to fauna:

Unfortunately, as a result of hunting, deforestation and urbanization, large species such as the jaguar and the tapir have become extinct in the region. The absence of these large predators and herbivores has a direct impact on the balance of ecosystems.

Curiosity:

The name "capuchin monkey" came about because, in popular culture, it was believed that the animal's genitals, when erect, were shaped like nails. More than an etymological curiosity, these primates are true engineers of the forest, extremely intelligent and sociable, mastering techniques such as using stones to break open seeds and even shellfish in coastal regions.

Tijuca National Park is more than just a green haven in the heart of Rio de Janeiro — it is home to a unique biodiversity that endures and is maintained thanks to conservation and environmental education efforts.

When visiting, respect the fauna and flora. Keep your distance from animals, do not feed them and preserve the silence of the forest. Every little action helps to protect this natural sanctuary.

Birds of Tijuca National Park: A Biodiversity Sanctuary in the Heart of Rio

Tijuca National Park is not only a forest refuge in the middle of the city, but also a true sanctuary for birdlife. Its importance for the conservation of birds in the region is immense, especially for species endemic to the Atlantic Forest — that is, those that only exist here.

Despite having undergone major transformations over the centuries, the forest is home to an incredible diversity of species. There are more than 226 species of birds recorded, making the park a paradise for birdwatchers, nature photographers and biodiversity lovers.

Highlights include beautiful and emblematic birds, such as:

• Black-billed Toucan ( Ramphastos vitellinus )

• Tico-Tico ( Zonotrichia capensis )

• Dancing Manakin ( Chiroxiphia caudata ), famous for its mating dance

• Black-masked Spitterbird ( Conopophaga melanops )

• Barred Woodpecker ( Picumnus cirratus )

• Seven-colored Tanager ( Tangara seledon ), one of the most colorful birds of the Atlantic Forest

• Euphonia violacea ( Euphonia violacea )

• Black Tiê ( Tachyphonus coronatus ), symbol of the Atlantic Forest

• Tangarazinho ( Ilicura militaris ), small and with exuberant plumage

• Rufous-rumped Woodpecker ( Hemithraupis ruficapilla )

• Green Parrot ( Pionus maximiliani )

• Red Parakeet ( Brotogeris tirica )

• Red-fronted Parakeet ( Pyrrhura frontalis )

In addition to their beauty, these birds play a fundamental role in the ecological balance of the forest, helping with seed dispersal, insect control and pollination.

If you are passionate about nature, visiting Tijuca National Park is not just a trip — it is an opportunity to reconnect with life and realize how the city and nature can (and should) coexist in harmony.

Amphibians and Reptiles in Tijuca National Park: Guardians of Balance

When exploring the trails and forests of Tijuca National Park , it is not uncommon to come across small — but very important — inhabitants of the ecosystem: amphibians and reptiles.

Amphibians: Sentinels of Nature

Amphibians are true indicators of environmental health. Because their skin is extremely sensitive to pollutants, they are considered natural bioindicators , meaning their presence reflects the quality of the environments in which they live.

They inhabit different microenvironments: among dry leaves (leaf litter), bromeliads, shrubs, trees, lawns and areas close to bodies of water. In the Park, 39 species of amphibians have been recorded, such as:

• Little frog (Adenomera marmorata)

• Frog (Aplastodiscus albofrenatus)

• Goeldi's Frog (Flectonotus goeldii)

• Cane toad (Bufo ornatus)

Each of them plays a fundamental role in maintaining ecological balance.

Reptiles: Natural Controllers

Reptiles are key to the healthy functioning of the forest. They help control populations of insects, small mammals and other animals, as well as providing food for larger predators, thus keeping the complex food web balanced .

In the PNT, 31 species of reptiles are found, including lizards and snakes, such as:

• Lizard (Ameiva ameiva)

• Stone Gecko (Tropidurus torquatus)

• Tegu (Tupinambis merianae)

• Jararaca (Bothrops jararaca – venomous)

• Siphlophis compressus (non-venomous)

• Liophis miliaris (non-venomous)

These animals, often viewed with fear or suspicion, are essential to maintaining the balance of ecosystems, ensuring that life continues to pulse in the largest urban forest in the world.

The Importance of Invertebrates in Tijuca National Park

Often overlooked, invertebrate animals play a fundamental role in the balance of ecosystems. They are responsible for essential processes such as the decomposition of organic matter, the cycling of nutrients and, most importantly, the pollination of plants — a vital step in the formation of fruits and the regeneration of flora.

Furthermore, invertebrates are key elements in the food chain, serving as food for many other animals, contributing to the maintenance of biodiversity.

In Tijuca National Park , a great diversity of species has been recorded, highlighting the richness of life that this biome is home to. Among the most common invertebrates, we can find: Scorpions – Tityus costatus and Thestylus glazioui Freshwater shrimp – Macrobrachium potiuna Butterflies – Melinaea ludovica , Parides tros and Morpho achilles , known for their vibrant colors that decorate the trails. Aquatic and terrestrial beetles – Austrolimnius laevigatus and Phanocerus clavicornis Dragonflies – Castoraeschna castor and Libellula herculea , which help control insects, such as mosquitoes.

These small creatures, although discreet, are true protagonists in maintaining the environmental balance and natural beauty of Rio de Janeiro. Observing and respecting this life is also a way of preserving nature for future generations.

The Relief of Tijuca National Park – A Geological Wonder in the Heart of Rio

Tijuca National Park is enchanting not only for its lush vegetation, but also for its imposing and rugged terrain, which shapes much of Rio de Janeiro's landscape. Highlights include some of the city's most famous peaks, such as Pico da Tijuca , Corcovado (where Christ the Redeemer is located) and the majestic Pedra da Gávea , recognized as the largest seaside monolith in the world .

These impressive formations are the result of geological processes that date back billions of years. The rocks that make up most of the park's mountains are around 1.7 billion years old . The predominant rocks are gneiss , a metamorphic rock that was formed by intense pressure and the movement of tectonic plates, which literally pushed these structures upward, creating this spectacular landscape.

In addition to gneiss, quartzite and calc-silicate rocks are also found in the park, contributing to the geological diversity of the area. The "younger" rocks, around 600 million years old , form important landmarks, such as the Cabeça do Imperador granite , in Pedra da Gávea, and the granites of the Elefante and Urubus valleys , in the Grajaú neighborhood.

The contrast between the intense green of the forest, the imposing rocky walls and the blue of the sea creates one of the most beautiful postcards in the world — a true spectacle of nature that you can experience up close on the trails and viewpoints of Tijuca National Park.

Hydrography of Tijuca National Park: Rivers, Streams and Waterfalls

Tijuca National Park has an extensive and diverse river system, which is essential for maintaining the local ecosystem and supplying the city of Rio de Janeiro with water. The main rivers and streams that run through the forest include the Maracanã River, Carioca River, Cachoeira River, Almas River, Pedra Bonita River, Barra River, Pai Ricardo River, Cabeça River, Lagoinha River and Silvestre River.

In addition, the park is home to numerous waterfalls that enchant visitors and residents, such as the famous Taunay Waterfall, Pai Antônio Waterfall, Ramalho Waterfall, Horto Waterfalls, Primatas Waterfall, Almas Waterfall, Gabriela Waterfall, Diamantina Waterfall, Conde Waterfall, Cova da Onça Waterfall and the impressive Sete Quedas Waterfalls, among others.

In the 19th century, the capture of these waters was strategic for supplying Rio de Janeiro. At that time, a network of small dams was built to capture water from several rivers in the park, ensuring the city's supply. To this day, the waters of Tijuca National Park supply several neighboring neighborhoods, reinforcing its vital importance.

Rio de Janeiro, like other coastal cities in Brazil, has a tropical Atlantic climate — hot and humid, with rainy summers and drier winters. This climate depends directly on the Atlantic Forest and the vast green cover of the Tijuca National Park to maintain its hydrological balance, ensuring quality of life for its inhabitants and environmental preservation.

Flora of Tijuca National Park: A Treasure of Rio's Biodiversity

Tijuca National Park is a true haven of biodiversity, home to no less than 1,619 plant species, 433 of which are threatened with extinction — a reminder of the importance of environmental preservation.

As you explore this unique urban forest, you will be able to admire majestic trees such as the angico ( Anadenanthera colubrina ), the quaresmeira ( Tibouchina granulosa ), the embaúba ( Cecropia glaziovii ) and the silk-cotton tree ( Ceiba speciosa ), which with their impressive flowers paint the landscape with vibrant colors.

No less impressive are the imposing yellow ipê ( Handroanthus chrysotrichus ), the jequitibá ( Cariniana legalis ), a symbol of the resistance of the Atlantic Forest, and the cedar ( Cedrela odorata ), in addition to the valuable copaíba ( Copaifera langsdorffii ) and the resistant ironwood ( Libidibia ferrea ).

The park is also home to the brejaúva ( Astrocaryum aculeatissimum ), the juçara ( Euterpe edulis ), the source of the famous sustainable palm heart, and several species of smaller but equally charming plants, such as the sonhos d'ouro ( Psychotria nuda ), orchids such as the Brasilaelia crispa , showy bromeliads such as the Aechmea fasciata and the delicate begonias ( Begonia tomentosa ).

Each walk through Tijuca National Park is an immersion into a green universe, full of life and natural stories that enchant and educate visitors of all ages.

Tijuca Forest: The Green Lung of Rio de Janeiro

The Tijuca Forest is much more than just an urban forest — it is the largest urban park in the world and a true haven of biodiversity in the heart of Rio de Janeiro. With more than 1,600 plant species, including majestic trees such as the jequitibá, the yellow ipê and the silk-cotton tree, Tijuca is home to a rich fauna and flora that delight visitors and nature lovers alike.

When you explore Tijuca, you connect with a living ecosystem that offers incredible trails, refreshing waterfalls and viewpoints with breathtaking views. It is the perfect place for those seeking adventure, contact with nature and moments of tranquility in the middle of the city.

In addition to its natural beauty, the Tijuca Forest has a history of environmental restoration, showing how human strength can preserve and restore nature. Therefore, when visiting, it is essential to respect the park and its rules and contribute to its conservation.

Come live this unique experience with Rodrigo Indio Tours and discover why the Tijuca Forest is one of Rio de Janeiro's greatest treasures.