Things to do
Hiking in Rio de Janeiro
Walks in the Atlantic Forest with sea views, in order of difficulty, and the rules that apply to all of them.
Updated on October 7, 2026 ✓ Information verified on October 6, 2026 adapted version of the Portuguese original
Few cities have forest trails with sea views inside the urban area. Most of them are in Tijuca National Park.
Rules that apply to every trail
Park hours: in the Forest sector, pedestrian entry from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. and exit by 6 p.m.; Pedra Bonita and Pedra da Gávea, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., according to the visiting rules. Hours change in bad weather.
Easy
- Pista Cláudio Coutinho: a flat, paved path in Urca. See Praia Vermelha.
- Morro da Urca: about 30 minutes uphill, light to moderate intensity, according to Parque Bondinho.
Moderate
- Pedra Bonita: short, with a view of Pedra da Gávea; you may start until 4 p.m.
- Dois Irmãos Hill: a climb via Vidigal, ideally with a local guide.
Demanding
- Parque Lage to Corcovado: a steep climb through the forest up to Christ the Redeemer. See how to visit Christ the Redeemer.
- Pedra da Gávea: long, with a rock-climbing section; start no later than 2 p.m. Only with an accredited guide.
Guides
For difficult trails, hire an accredited guide. On Corcovado, the park authorizes guides identified with an ICMBio badge.
Places mentioned
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Hike West Zone Pedra da Gávea One of the largest seaside monoliths in the world, at 842 meters. The trail is hard, has a climbing section and should only be done fit and with a guide. See details -
Hike South Zone Dois Irmãos Hill The two peaks that close off the Ipanema and Leblon seafront. The trail starts in Vidigal and ends at one of the fullest views in the South Zone. See details
Frequently asked questions
What is the easiest trail in Rio?
The Pista Cláudio Coutinho, flat and paved, and the climb up Morro da Urca, about 30 minutes.
Do I need a guide for the trails?
For difficult trails such as Pedra da Gávea, yes. For the others, it is recommended if you do not know the way.
Keep reading
Keep planning
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Safety in Rio de Janeiro Simple habits that prevent most problems, on the beach, on the street, on transport and on hiking trails. Read guide -
Rio de Janeiro viewpoints From the top of Corcovado to the Arpoador rock: where to see Rio from above, and when. Read guide -
How to visit Christ the Redeemer Train, official van, authorized guide or on foot: step by step to the statue, with official prices checked in October 2026. Read guide