the ilhas of lagoa da tijuca can be easily reached by getting to barra da tijuca, and going through aveninda lombardi 400, where there is a water-taxi station.  

further west, in the reserva biológica e arqueológica de guaratiba, small flat islands are home to a wealth of flora and fauna that make the region one of the most beautiful and undiscovered parts of rio de janeiro.

here, the canal do bacalhau (cod's canal) is a spectacular setting for nature lovers seeking a different experience while still in the city.

starting from the zona sul, this part of town is reachable via an 80 minute car ride, and boats and local tour guides are available at the praia do canto, a small beach in guaratiba.