One of the most unique and delightful aspects of Rio de Janeiro is the diverse and resplendent topography of the landscape, where buzzing streets sit side by side with a multiplicity of various parks, forests and landscaped lawns, ideal for leisure, relaxation and exploration.

A salient feature of the carioca sentiment is their understanding and appreciation of pleasure and recreation, and this is undoubtedly a product of the landscape in which they live, which offers these wonderfully diverse natural settings.

There are a number of extensive, lush expanses, containing trails through thick bush and forest as well plenty of curious species of wildlife to admire. Parque Natural Municipal de Marapendi, or 'Marapendi Municipal Natural Park', located in Barra da Tijuca, is an area of diverse ecosystems formed on salt marshes and mangroves, running alongside the coast.