The region also boasts a range of delightful green expanses. 'Parque da Cidade,' or City Park, offers beautiful views of the sandy shores of Niterói, as well as a truly spectacular view of the region, including Guanabara Bay, Sugarloaf, and Christ the Redeemer. The site is also a highly desirable spot for paragliding, because of its impressive height, views, and favorable winds.

The Serra da Tiririca is a vast area of lush Atlantic Forest, populated by orchids and natural wildlife, such as armadillos, skunks and hedgehogs. 'Pedra do Elefante,' or Elephant Rock, is situated on the highest point of the Serra da Tiririca, between the inviting stretches of Itaipúaçu and Itacoatiara beaches and surrounded by lush rainforest. The great rock, which bares an impressive resemblance to the head of an elephant, offers wonderful panoramic views of Rio - the seas that lap against the bays of Niterói, the Maricás islands, and the majestic mountains.