the morro das andorinhas (hill of swallows) is located in the south of niterói, in the neighborhood of itacoatiara and forms part of the serra da tiririca state park. this area is also home to a number of stunning oceanic beaches, picturesque islands off the shore and the lago de itaipú, making the views from the peak of the mountain breathtakingly beautiful - it is due to these spectacular panoramic views from an altitude of 196 meters, that morro das andorinhas is one of the most popular attractions in niterói.

the tip of the alto mourão is the highest point of the serra da tiririca state park in niterói, at an altitude of 442 meters above sea level. it is often falsely referred to as morro do elefante - as a matter of fact, the latter is actually part of the alto mourão, but they are not technically the same. the vantage point at the peak of the mountain offers a bird-eye perspective of the popular itacoatiara and Itaipú beaches and the surrounding area below. it is arguably the most beautiful view in the entire region, and it is easily accessible to anyone who possess an intermediate level of hiking experience and ability.