making up an incredible ten percent of the entire municipality of rio de janeiro, and spanning across an expansive 12,500 hectors, parque estadual da pedra branca (white rock state park) is one of the largest areas of environmental conservation in the world.

pedra branca was so named, due to a large block of rocks at the highest peak of the park, which have become white in color, from the excrements of birds who frequent this spot. the rest of the vibrant park is covered from head to toe in lush atlantic forest  vegetation, making it a true ecological marvel, and one of the most naturally rich areas of the city.