there are literally hundreds of routes of varying difficulty, from sugar loaf mountain to climbs within the tijuca forest, all of which are beautiful.   corovado mountain in the heart of the city, and serra dos órgãos national park just one hour away, are precious options with many companies offering classes and tours.

ever more popular, and easily accessible to all, hang-gliding is done near the main beaches of rio - starting at são conrado beach with instructors, who take eager students up to pedra bonita for a tandem jump.