Rio Tijuca Forest: Small Group Hike, Waterfalls & History

Summary

Walk old coffee trails in Rio’s Tijuca Forest with waterfall swims and local stories

You’ll hike historic trails through Rio’s Tijuca Forest with a local guide, passing waterfalls like Cascatinha Taunay and stopping at places like Mayrink Chapel and Bats’ Grotto. Expect real stories, a waterfall swim to wake you up, and a side of Rio most travelers never see—plus pickup so you don’t have to stress about getting there.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to smell eucalyptus before I saw it—honestly, I thought it was just my sunscreen at first. But our guide, Felipe, grinned and pointed out the tall trees ahead, explaining how this part of the Tijuca Forest used to be an old slave cemetery. That hit me harder than I thought it would. The air was thick and a bit sweet, almost humming with cicadas. We’d started out from Rio early (pickup was easy), and by the time we reached Cascatinha Taunay—the tallest waterfall in the park—the city felt far away.

The hike itself isn’t exactly easy but not punishing either—just enough up and down to remind you you’re alive. At one point we crossed this stone bridge called Cova da Onça, mossy underfoot and slippery from last night’s rain. Felipe told us about the 19th-century coffee farms here; I kept picturing people trudging these same paths way before us. There’s something about walking on those old trails that makes you pay attention differently, you know? We stopped at Mayrink Chapel (from 1850), its pink walls faded but still stubbornly bright against all that green.

My favorite part—well, maybe tied with the waterfall shower later—was ducking into Bats’ Grotto. It’s the biggest gneiss cave in Brazil apparently (Felipe said “gneiss” like “nice,” which made us all laugh). It was cool inside, damp stone under my hands, and someone’s phone flashlight bouncing shadows around. After that we cooled off at Baronesa Cascade—icy water but worth every shiver—and then started heading back down through more tangled forest, legs a bit shaky but spirits weirdly light. Still thinking about that eucalyptus scent mixing with earth after rain.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Hike and explore Tijuca Forest

• Hike 3-hour loop circuit
• Visit Atlantic rainforest trails
• Pass waterfalls and caves
• See bridges and historical sites
• Take waterfall shower break

Top questions

How long is the Tijuca Forest hike?

The hike covers about 6.4 km (3.8 miles) over roughly 3 hours.

Is hotel pickup included for this day trip?

Yes, pickup and drop-off from designated meeting points are included.

What should I bring for the Tijuca Forest tour?

Bring comfortable hiking shoes, water, sunscreen, and maybe a change of clothes for the waterfall.

Is this tour suitable for kids?

It’s not recommended for children under 12; they must be accompanied if joining.

How many people are on each tour?

The group size is up to 6 participants or you can choose a private option.

Do I need to be very fit for this hike?

A moderate level of fitness is required; there are some uphills and uneven terrain but no technical climbing.

Are entry fees included in the price?

Yes, all fees and taxes are included in your booking.

Will there be a local guide during the hike?

Yes, a licensed local guide leads the entire tour.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup and drop-off from set meeting points in Rio de Janeiro, guided hiking through Tijuca Forest on historic trails with a licensed guide who shares local history along the way, all entry fees covered so you don’t have to worry about cash or tickets, transport in a small vehicle (with optional AC), insurance for peace of mind—and yes—a well-earned waterfall shower before heading back down to where you started.