- Type
- Nature
- Area
- South Zone
- Good for kids
- Yes
- Requires a hike or uphill walk
- No
Parque Henrique Lage, or simply Parque Lage, is a public park on Rua Jardim Botânico, at the foot of Corcovado. It has more than 52 hectares of gardens and forest and was heritage-listed by Iphan in 1957, according to Wikipedia. Since 2004 it has been part of Tijuca National Park.
The mansion and the pool courtyard
The area was the Lage family’s country estate from the 19th century. The romantic gardens of the old estate, from 1840, are attributed to landscape designer John Tyndale. In the 1920s, Henrique Lage hired Italian architect Mario Vodret to design the current house, according to Wikipedia.
The mansion has a central courtyard with a pool, surrounded by arcades, and a striking portico on the facade. In the background, the rock face of Corcovado completes the scene. It is one of the most photographed images of Rio. The pool is part of the historic ensemble and is not used for swimming.
School of Visual Arts
Since 1966 the mansion has housed an art school, renamed the Parque Lage School of Visual Arts (Escola de Artes Visuais do Parque Lage) in 1975, according to Wikipedia. That is why you will often find exhibitions, students and cultural activities in the building.
Gardens, forest and children
The gardens were laid out geometrically around the mansion, with views of Corcovado. Around the park there are forest paths, lakes and artificial grottoes, plus a play area for children, according to Wikipedia. It is a good, shady outing for families.
The Corcovado trail
Parque Lage is the starting point of the trail that climbs through the forest of Tijuca National Park to Corcovado. It is a demanding hike, with a steep climb, rocks and roots. The step-by-step guide and the monument access prices are in how to visit Christ the Redeemer.
Before you go
This guide has not confirmed Parque Lage’s opening hours or any access rules for the mansion with an official source. Check the official channels of Tijuca National Park and the School of Visual Arts.
Getting there
The park is on Rua Jardim Botânico, near the Botanical Garden and Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon. Go by bus, taxi or ride-hailing app. See other walks in hiking in Rio.
Practical tips
- Arrive early to photograph the pool courtyard with few people.
- To walk up to Corcovado, go with company and start early.
- Combine it with the Botanical Garden, on the same street.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Parque Lage?
On Rua Jardim Botânico, in the Jardim Botânico neighborhood, at the foot of Corcovado, according to Wikipedia.
Is Parque Lage part of Tijuca National Park?
Yes. Since 2004 Parque Lage has been part of Tijuca National Park, managed by ICMBio. The mansion is looked after by the School of Visual Arts, according to Wikipedia.
Can you hike up to Christ the Redeemer from Parque Lage?
Yes. The trail to Corcovado crosses the forest of Tijuca National Park. It is a demanding climb: go during the day, with company and water, and check the park's rules.
Can you swim in the Parque Lage pool?
No. The courtyard pool is part of the mansion's historic ensemble and is only for looking at.
Pair it with
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Kids South Zone Rio de Janeiro Botanical Garden A research institute open to the public, with an avenue of imperial palms, greenhouses and the Tijuca Forest as a backdrop. See details -
Kids North Zone Tijuca National Park The forest Emperor Pedro II ordered protected and replanted in 1861. Today it is home to Christ the Redeemer, waterfalls, viewpoints and the city's main trails. See details -
Free accessKids South Zone Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon The stretch of water between Ipanema, Leblon and Jardim Botânico, with a cycle path around it, kiosks and Christ the Redeemer high above. See details