Top Rio de Janeiro Eco Tours

Get more out of your visit to the famous Rio de Janeiro Botanical Garden when you go with a guide. Walk through the highlights of this UNESCO-listed biosphere reserve while learning about learning about its history and mission, plus see plants and animals from around the world like monkeys, toucans, and giant Amazonian water lilies. Round-trip transportation from Rio hotels is included.

Explore Brazil's diverse plant life on this tour of the Tijuca Rainforest and the Rio de Janeiro Botanical Garden. Visit the city's botanical garden to view a variety of exotic and native plants. Ride in a jeep through the Tijuca Rainforest, stopping for a leisurely hike with picturesque views and chances to see local wildlife. Round-trip transportation from Rio de Janeiro hotels is included.

The Tijuca National Forest is one of the largest urban rainforests in the world, set on mountain slopes just west of Rio de Janeiro. With this tour, discover two of the city’s nature sites, starting with a guided walk through the Rio Botanical Gardens, including the Turtle Lake and Sensory Garden. Then, hike through Tijuca, learn more about the native plants and wildlife, and admire Taunay Waterfall.

Visit the Botanic Garden which was created in 1817 by King John VI of Portugal. Dedicated to the culture of exotic plants, the unique park features a variety of rare and exotic species brought from all over the world. Among the rarest are the Imperial Palm Trees, huge water lilies (Victorias-Regias), and Brazilian Red Wood trees (Pau Brasil), which are an endangered species in the Atlantic Forest. In its famous greenhouse, more than 500 species of delicate orchids are carefully tended to. We will then make a visit to the Tijuca Atlantic Forest, the largest urban forest in the world, stopping at the Chinese View Belvedere which features a magnificent view of Ipanema and Copacabana beaches, the Guanabara Bay and the Sugar Loaf Mountain. The access by car to the Chinese viewpoint is closed on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays. On the way back to the hotel, we stop at the Pepino Beach to watch the hang gliders.

Experience Rio's lush Tijuca Rainforest on a thrilling open-air jeep tour. Encounter diverse wildlife, stunning waterfalls, and scenic trails in the world's largest urban rainforest. Enjoy convenient hotel pickup in south Rio and embark on a journey to the forest. Cruise through the lush landscape and keep a lookout for playful monkeys, coatis, butterflies, toucans, iguanas, and an array of fascinating insects. After 30 minutes of moderate hiking, reach a breathtaking viewpoint 690 meters above sea level for awe-inspiring panoramic views. Continue your journey to the National Park's tallest waterfall, a majestic 35-meter cascade. Take a refreshing dip and immerse yourself in the surrounding natural splendor. During the return, we will take you to the iconic Vista Chinesa, a renowned viewpoint that offers breathtaking city views. Conclude with a drive through São Conrado, Leblon, Ipanema, and Copacabana, enjoying vibrant beaches and a rejuvenating, tranquil ending.

Hike the Horto waterfalls circuit in Tijuca National Park on this half-day morning tour, led by a specialist guide. Starting from Jequitibá Waterfall, you’ll walk at a leisurely pace along a forest trail ending at Shower Waterfall, aka Box Waterfall. Stand or wade under the rock-walled cascades for a refreshing shower before reversing your steps. Upgrade to venture with your own personal guide on a private tour that includes round-trip hotel transport.

Discover a few of Rio’s traditional neighborhoods as well as iconic landmarks on this bike tour of the southern part of the city. Join a small group and pedal around Copacabana Beach, Sugarloaf Mountain, Botafogo, and the Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon. See how the locals, or Cariocas, live when they’re not relaxing on the beach, and learn about the local culture.

Soar above the city of Rio de Janeiro aboard a hang glider during this thrilling adventure. Accompanied by a fully certified instructor, launch from the Tijuca National Park and glide over the lush, verdant Atlantic Forest. Take in views of some of Rio's most famous landmarks, such as Sugar Loaf Mountain, the Rocinha Favela, and the Christ the Redeemer Statue atop Corcovado Mountain. Touch down for a gentle landing on the white sands of Sao Conrado Beach.

See two iconic Rio de Janeiro landmarks from the water—Christ the Redeemer and Sugar Loaf—on a sailing tour. Sail in Guanabara Bay or the open sea while you relax with a welcome drink and snacks. Enjoy stunning views and discover the magic of sailing from the captain who illuminates Rio’s history. This 3-hour boat tour has a maximum capacity of 20, so there'll be plenty of room onboard.

Relax on the pristine, uncrowded beaches of Ilha Grande and Angra dos Reis during this 12-hour excursion from Rio de Janeiro. Take a break from the urban pace with a sightseeing cruise through the islands, passing Ponta da Piedade, Lagoa Azul and Ilha de Cataguases. Stop to swim and snorkel in the azure waters or dig your toes into the soft sand. Enjoy lunch aboard the boat; drinks are available for purchase. Round-trip transportation from Rio hotels is included.

Get an overview of Rio's most important sights during this comprehensive day tour. With your guide, tick off Christ the Redeemer statue, the Selarón Steps, Maracanã Stadium, and the Metropolitan Cathedral of Saint Sebastian. If you upgrade to the premium option, you can even take the cable car to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain, plus stop for lunch in one of the city's best steakhouses. Round-trip, air-conditioned transportation from Rio hotels is included.

Get an in-depth local experience with this walking tour of one of Rio's "favelas," Rocinha. Follow your resident guide through the slum to get an insider's perspective on daily life and learn about the challenges these communities face. Upgrade your experience to a 2-day tour that includes a visit to Tijuca Forest.

Discover Rio’s beautiful natural diversity on a full-day eco-tour through four stunning parks and seven unique attractions. From rainforest trails to pristine beaches, experience the city’s vibrant ecosystems, including mangroves, lagoons, and mountain summits. Perfect for nature lovers, this tour takes you off the beaten path to explore Rio’s hidden green gems while enjoying panoramic views and wildlife encounters.

Ride through Tijuca National Park's rainforest in an open-top Jeep during this half-day trip from Rio. During guided eco-tour, hike through the forest to spot sloths, butterflies, monkeys, and birds. Enjoy panoramic views from Vista Chinesa (Chinese View) and marvel at the fact that this section of the Mata Atlântica (Atlantic Forest) is just 10 minutes outside the city limits. Round-trip transportation from Rio hotels is included.

Swap bustling Rio de Janeiro for Búzios, a resort town on Rio’s northern coast. Hop aboard a boat in search of Búzios’ best beaches, then enjoy a delicious Brazilian lunch at a local restaurant. Afterward, continue with a sightseeing tour of the upscale Rua das Pedras, a cobbled street that showcases sophisticated boutiques and dining options for the jet set. Round-trip hotel transport in the South Zone and Downtown Rio is included on this day trip.

Discover a side of Rio de Janeiro that many visitors miss — the lush, green world surrounding the city. On this private tour, stroll through century-old gardens and tropical forests, uncovering a unique harmony between the vibrant metropolis and its abundant nature. Visit the Rio de Janeiro Botanical Garden (Jardim Botânico), a peaceful haven of tropical species, imperial palms, and quiet corners where science, art, and nature meet. Continue to the Tijuca National Park (Floresta da Tijuca), the largest reforested urban rainforest in the world, with waterfalls, trails, and breathtaking viewpoints. Guided by a licensed professional fluent in English and Spanish, you’ll enjoy comfort, safety, and meaningful insights at every stop. More than beaches, Rio is also a green paradise filled with history, beauty, and life.

Tour Rio de Janeiro your way, with a private car and driver, during this fully customizable tour. Choose the landmarks and attractions that you want to visit, such as Christ the Redeemer atop Corcovado, Sugar Loaf Mountain, the Selarón Steps, the Metropolitan Cathedral and the city's famous beaches. Learn about the food, language, culture and history of the city and its inhabitants from your informative local guide while you explore. Round trip transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned private vehicle is included.

Venture away from the hustle and bustle of Rio de Janeiro and explore the wild Pedra Branca State Park. Embark on a hike to Pedra do Telegrafo for beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean and Rio in the distance before exploring a handful of rugged beaches for a bit of relaxation. This excursion is suitable for most travelers and is limited to a small group for a more personalized experience.

Just beyond Rio lies a world of adventure—one you’ll sink into deeply on this guided tour. After pickup from your hotel, you’ll head straight into nature, hiking roughly 4 miles to waterfalls, lakes, historic sites, vistas, swimming pools (bring your gear!), and through one of the largest urban forests on the planet. Watch for wildlife like monkeys and coatis, take an al fresco picnic, and destress in these great outdoors.

You will be enchanted by our 2 Days in Rio: Cultural & Ecologic Tours, which includes a complete City Tour of Rio de Janeiro and an Ecological Tour, including a beautiful and light hike in the Tijuca Forest, where you will enjoy the fresh air as well as its singular fauna and flora.   The tours are accompanied by an experienced and bilingual guide (all with Cadastur). The Tour includes the following activities: Full Day Complete City Tour of Rio de Janeiro, including the visits of Corcovado, Cristo Redentor, external visit to Maracanã Stadium, Sambódromo, São Sebastião Cathedral, Sugar Loaf, Beaches and Lunch. (This is an Open Group Tour format) Ecologic Tour at Tijuca National Park, including the vists of Pedra Bonita, Chinese View and Horto Waterfall. (This is an Private Group Tour format)

Immerse yourself in the culinary culture of Rio de Janeiro during a small-group cooking class. Learn about the flavors, ingredients, and cooking techniques specific to Brazilian cuisine from your instructor. Upgrade to include a market tour to discover Brazilian ingredients, spices, and souvenirs. Then, get your hands dirty as you learn to prepare several authentic recipes while sipping on an unlimited caipirinhas. Enjoy a true taste of Rio and explore local culture beyond the restaurant scene.

Enjoy a flexible, fully customized way to experience Rio de Janeiro—and opt to visit the sights that interest you most—on this private, full-day sightseeing tour. Traveling aboard a private vehicle makes getting around seamless. Choose to stop at major landmarks including Christ the Redeemer, Sugar Loaf Mountain, and the Selaron Steps (admission tickets own expense). You can also explore the historic city center, visit Tijuca Forest, or discover bohemian Santa Teresa.

Pedra do Telégrafo is one of Rio de Janeiro's most-photographed natural attractions and offers great views of the city. But, located on the city's west side, it can be tricky to get there. This small-group tour takes care of your transportation then leads you on an easy hike up to the rock where you can take photos and enjoy the views.