After pickup from your Rio hotel, your half-day tour begins at the historic Rio de Janeiro Botanical Garden. See a variety of exotic plants from all over the planet at this world-famous garden, which is home to water lilies, huge redwood trees, imperial palm trees and a famous greenhouse that houses more than 500 kinds of orchid. The garden also houses fountains, historical monuments and hundreds of birds.

After your guide picks you up from your hotel in Rio, hop in an open Jeep and buckle up for a fun ride! Drive to the edge of the cityscape and enter Tijuca Forest, located just 10 minutes from the city center. You’ll hear about the important reforestation program of Tijuca National Park and learn the importance of the Mata Atlântica ecosystem — part of the vast and protected Mata Biosphere Reserve, which covers 14 states in Brazil.

Admire Cascatinha Taunay, an iconic waterfall perfect for photos.

Explore the Visitor Center to learn about local biodiversity.

Enjoy the beautiful view of the city, as did the Royal family several times. It was at this table that Dom Pedro I, when he wanted a meal in the middle of one of the most beautiful views, would leave his residence at Quinta da Boa Vista and, with his cart, would head towards Estrada da Vista China. At an altitude of 487 meters above sea level, the Emperor's Table is set against stunning views of the city, counteracting urbanization and nature. Stairs surrounding the parapet of the area lead the tourist to the edge of a concrete ramp, making the tourist feel in the midst of a splendid setting.

Take a short stop at this historical chapel. The little pink chapel in the middle of the woods, 460 meters above sea level, resembles a house of children's history. It was erected in 1860 by the Portuguese banker Viscount de Souto inside his farm, in Tijuca Forest. The Chapel is one of the attractions of Tijuca National Park. Adorn the altar reproductions of panels with holy images of Cândido Portinari. The gardens, as well as the Carrara marble and tiled patio tub with frowning spout, were designed by landscape designer Roberto Burle Marx.

See the beautiful waterfall during the hike

Get a nice perspective from the Tijuca Rainforest. At Vista Chinesa (Chinese View), capture sweeping views of Ipanema and Copacabana beaches, Guanabara Bay and even as far as Niteroi. The lookout was built between 1902 and 1906. The oriental-style pagoda is a reference in honor of the Chinese who brought tea cultivation to Brazil in the early 19th century. Made of bamboo and cement, and situated 380 meters above sea level, it is an important tourist spot in the city. * Due to Forest regulations, it is not possible to visit Vista Chinesa (Chinese View) on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays.