the tijuca national park in the neighborhood of jardim botânico is abundant in natural features, especially charming are the rivers and waterfalls that have formed over time. during the summer the park opens from 08:00 to 18:00 and there are dozens of trails leading to the many falls, where visitors are able to swim, snorkel, and relax. tour companies offer guides along the rivers and local knowledge is key to finding many of the waterfalls, because a number of them are hidden in the thick growth of the forest.

cachoeira do hort it is one of the most popular places chosen by cariocas to celebrate the arrival of spring. the access to the 15 minute trail, that leads to the cachoeira is pretty simple and the hike requests a moderate level of fitness and mobility.

the road rua pachecho leal, parallel to the botanical garden in the direction to vista chinesa, leads to the entrance of this trail, which passes by an old reservoir that used to provide water for the city. there is a natural water pool pool right by the entrance of vista chinesa and parking places are also available.