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Rio Travel Planner

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A Week in Rio: Day 6

A Wild Saturday in Rio

Rio de Janeiro boasts the largest urban forest in the world. The Forest of Tijuca is a courtesy of Emperor D. Jo�o VI, who reclaimed the whole area from coffee farms, and planted native species and other plants that eventually covered the mountains in lush green. The bucolic Botanical Gardens are another gift of the monarch to the city.

The Tijuca Forest is too big and tricky to explore on your own. Go with an experienced guide, or you will easily get lost. There are several attractions and landmarks you do not want to miss, and there will be plenty of photo opportunities. The forest is home to many exotic species, and if you are lucky you may even spot a colorful toucan or a cute sloth (the Brazilian koala). There are two extensions to this Tijuca Forest Tour that you may consider.

Go all the way to Pedra Bonita, in the S�o Conrado side of the forest. This is where hang-gliders jump off from, and the view is awesome. You can go on a tandem flight with an experienced hang-glider, and land on the sands of Pepino Beach in S�o Conrado. This is the kind of experience you can brag about forever!

Going on a favela tour is also a unique opportunity. You could go either to gigantic Rocinha, or smaller Rio das Pedras - both in S�o Conrado. Again this is a tour you do not want to do on your own. Go with a guide and explore the narrow streets, meet the local residents, enter a barraco (a home), and have a beer, coffee, or cacha�a at a botequim.

Another perfect way to make a closer contact to Rio's lush nature starts at the Botanical Gardens. This huge park in the heart of the South Side is less than ten minutes away from Ipanema. On the way to the Gardens stop at the headquarters of Flamengo Soccer Club. To gain access, tell the doorman you are going to the club shop to buy a T-shirt. Explore the premises, see the athletes in action -- there may even be some VIP player around.

Jardim Bot�nico Park is home to hundreds of native species. Walk around the lawns and meadows, breathe the fresh air, listen to the birds singing, and mellow down. The squirrels you see on the tree branches are actually marmosets, tiny fruit-eating monkeys (they love banana slices, among other treats). Bigger animals like the sloth, and exotic birds like the toucan have also been spotted there. If you enjoy horse racing you will soon find out that the Jockey Club is right across the street. Have lunch at any of the excellent restaurants in Jardim Bot�nico.

Parque da Cidade is nearby, in G�vea. It is a perfect spot for you to go on an old-fashioned pic-nic. Another natural extension of this nature-oriented day is Lagoa. This scenic lake is surrounded by parks and leisure areas. There are free tennis, basketball, football (soccer), baseball, and voleyball courts. You may jog, cycle, rollerblade, or just walk slowly around this South Side favorite. If you are lucky a graceful egret will pose for your pictures!

You have a big night ahead of you, so be back at your hotel sometime between six and seven for a shower and a half-hour nap. Tonight after dinner it's time to check out the rehearsal of a Samba School. These events happen in suburbs, and it is best for you to join a guided group. If you would rather go clubbing, try one of the special circuit parties Downtown. And if you are feeling less adventurous, basically all clubs happen on Saturdays. As you already know many of the hot spots, walk to one of the venues near your hotel, or hail a yellow cab. See you on Sunday!

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https://ipanema.com/citytour/ -- Revised: July 99
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