Tijuca National Park
Rio de Janeiro
Tijuca National Park is an expansive urban forest located within the mountainous terrain of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. It covers approximately 39.58 square kilometers and is considered one of the largest urban forests globally. The park is part of the Atlantic Forest Biosphere Preserve and features dense secondary vegetation resulting from a historic reforestation effort during the Brazilian Empire. This reforestation aimed to restore water sources damaged by deforestation for coffee plantations. The park is home to over 230 species of animals, including capuchin monkeys, coatis, agoutis, marmosets, hummingbirds, and thrushes. Its landscape includes notable peaks such as Corcovado, Pedra da Gávea, and Pico da Tijuca, the highest point at 1,022 meters above sea level. Visitors can explore numerous trails, waterfalls, caves, and enjoy panoramic views of Rio de Janeiro. The park's ecology is vital, containing endemic and endangered species like the tree Annona ferruginea. It also contributes to local climate regulation by lowering ambient temperatures in surrounding areas. Tijuca National Park holds significant cultural and historical value, with landmarks such as the Christ the Redeemer statue located on Corcovado Mountain. The park was officially declared a national park in 1961 and is managed by the Chico Mendes Institute for Biodiversity Conservation (ICMBio). Its mixture of native and introduced flora, along with its urban setting, makes it a unique natural refuge within a major city.
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Tip: The best time to visit Tijuca National Park is during the cooler, drier months from May to September to avoid heavy rains and enjoy clearer trails. Visitors are advised to purchase tickets or permits for popular sites like the Corcovado and Christ the Redeemer statue in advance to avoid long queues. Comfortable hiking shoes and insect repellent are recommended due to forest trails and wildlife. Guided tours are available for safer navigation and richer ecological insights. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups. Early morning visits offer the best chances to enjoy wildlife and cooler temperatures.
Interesting facts
- •Tijuca National Park is claimed to be the world's largest urban forest, covering about 39.58 square kilometers, though this is contested with Johannesburg's urban forest.
- •The park contains over 230 species of animals and birds, including many endemic and endangered species.
- •The reforestation was carried out by six enslaved persons under the supervision of Major Manuel Gomes Archer between 1861 and 1887, planting more than 100,000 trees.
- •The park includes iconic peaks such as Corcovado, home to the Christ the Redeemer statue, Pedra da Gávea, and Pico da Tijuca, the highest point at 1,022 meters.
- •Ambient temperatures in surrounding urban areas have been estimated to be lowered by up to 9 °C due to the dense forest cover.
- •The park contains approximately 30 waterfalls and numerous hiking trails within the Atlantic Forest biome.
History
Originally heavily deforested in the 1700s for coffee farming, livestock, and fuel, the Tijuca area suffered environmental degradation that threatened Rio's water supply.
Early conservation began in 1817 with a royal decree protecting trees around the Carioca River springs.
In 1861, Emperor Pedro II initiated a large-scale reforestation project supervised by Major Manuel Gomes Archer and carried out by six enslaved workers, planting over 100,000 trees by 1887.
This effort restored much of the forest and helped secure the city's water sources.
The area was officially designated a national park in 1961, and in 2012, the surrounding landscapes were recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Place Guide
Corcovado Mountain and Christ the Redeemer Statue1922-1931
Corcovado is one of the park's most famous peaks, crowned by the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue, built between 1922 and 1931. The site offers panoramic views over Rio de Janeiro and is accessible via a cog railway or hiking trails.
Pico da Tijuca
The highest peak in the park, rising 1,022 meters above sea level. It offers challenging hiking trails and spectacular views of the city and Atlantic Forest.
Paineiras Forest and Reforestation Sites1861-1887
Areas within the park where reforestation efforts began in the mid-19th century. These include native hardwood species like canjerana, garapiapunha, and sapucaia, reflecting the historic restoration project.
Waterfalls and Trails
The park contains around 30 waterfalls accessible via a network of hiking trails through dense Atlantic Forest vegetation, offering opportunities for nature observation and photography.
Contact
Phone: (61) 2028-8757
