a trip through the floresta da tijuca on foot is the best way to experience the vast wealth of biodiversity that is housed within rio's mata atlântica (atlantic rainforest).

being such a vast forest, there are a huge number of routes available with a variety of intensities, from ascents up mountains, to strolls through flat plains, and fresh dips in natural waterfalls - on each of them, there is incredible flora and fauna to be seen, highlights including capuchin monkeys, toucans, buzzards and raccoons.

there are a great many other activities that can be undertaken in the park, including mountaineering, cycling, running, swimming, hang gliding, among others.