the parque estudal da pedra branca  (white rock state park) in the neighbrhood of  vargem grande constitutes the largest urban forest in the world. the highest point of the park is the peak of the white granite rock known as pico da pedra branca, which rises to over a thousand meters in altitude.

the mountainous terrain and the many creeks and rivers that flow throughout create the perfect conditions for some of the most stunning cachoeiras (waterfalls) in metropolitan rio de janeiro.

there are many ways to travel to the numerous waterfalls of rio das paineiras so the journey there can often be just as enjoyable as swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing in the cool waters.

those who chose to drive to the waterfalls with sufficient spare time, have the option of taking the scenic route - there are some spectacular views from many vantage points along the way, not just of the city but of the numerous waterfalls as well.