the lagoa da tijuca is located in the western neighborhood of barra da tijuca, not far from the famous beach by the same name. while not a common touristic destination, it is in fact a precious asset to the city, and a valuable destination for anyone interested in discovering a very different side of rio de janeiro.

considered by some the 'venice of rio' the canal connecting the ocean to this small lagoa, called largo do banco, is home to several small islands. taking a boat trip around the lake offers some spectacularly beautiful views of the rocky mountains surrounding the lake, that are reflected in the canals.