rio de janeiro is recognized as a major tourist destination for its lovely beaches, high mountaintops, and tropical gardens. these idyllic vistas are also sites of major ecological significance - an aspect that often remains hidden. one of the more hidden treasures of this natural wonderland are the many caves and grottos to be discovered.

rio de janeiro's mountains, many of which were formed underground over 500 million years ago, are particularly valuable sources of rich historical information.

there are two types of mountainous formations in rio de janeiro - the 'classic looking' mountain ridges mostly found inland, and the unique granite formations near the coast, such as the sugar loaf and the pedra da gávea.