Top Rio de Janeiro Wildlife Watching in 2026

Tijuca National Park is a great opportunity to get to know Rio de Janeiro's rich avifauna, with endemic species of the Atlantic Forest. This is an ideal tour for those who want to start bird watching or for those more experienced birders.

Grand Islands is ecologically rich and is known for its coastal views, marine caves and distinct plant and animal species. I would like to invite you to experience a walk at sunrise, has been a sensory experience, which has a positive energy and attitude for the rest of the day. From time to time, it is worth the effort to get up and find the sun, especially if you manage to reach a scenic landscape. The sunrise provides one of the most striking lights throughout the day, so even the familiar views can look special when bathed by the bright morning.

As one of Rio de Janeiro’s most iconic attractions, Christ the Redeemer attracts lengthy lines. Save time and prevent hassle by prebooking skip-the-line tickets, which allow you to board the next available train to the summit of Corcovado, where the statue is located. Your return ticket is valid on any train, so spend as much time as you like at the top, enjoying panoramic vistas of Rio and capturing photographs of the landmark.

Explore Tijuca National Park with a local guide on a half-day hike. Learn about native plant and animal species and look out for tropical birds and reptiles along the trail. Swim in a natural lagoon and then take a rest with gorgeous Rio de Janeiro views. This tour is deal for visitors looking for an adventure in Brazil. Escape the city, immerse yourself in nature and learn about Brazilian wildlife.

If crowded boat tours aren’t your thing, this intimate experience is perfect for you. Set sail to the Tijuca Islands archipelago with a small group and explore Rio de Janeiro’s underwater world. Enjoy opportunities to spot sea turtles, colorful fish, and birds, with stops for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring along the way.

You will be guided by a local resident with years of experience, who knows every corner of Vidigal. We will walk as the sky changes color and the sun rises over Guanabara Bay. A magical and unforgettable moment, with safety, information and connection with nature and Carioca culture.

Get a glimpse into local life in Rio de Janeiro during a favela tour that reveals a different side of the Marvelous City. In an intimate group limited to 12 travelers, you’ll explore two of the largest favelas in Rio, and benefit from the local insight of a guide as you learn more about living conditions in the city.

Explore the incredible urban forest of Tijuca, with this guided hiking adventure in the heart of Rio De Janeiro. The region is filled with amazing wildlife and flora in their natural environment with the opportunity to admire tucan birds, monkeys, armadillos and anteaters along the way. Enjoy panoramic landscapes while visiting the Taunay Waterfall and the Vista Chinesa viewpoint before returning to the city.

Summit both Corcovado and Sugar Loaf mountains on this half-day tour in Rio de Janeiro. After bright and early pickup from your Rio hotel, travel through the Tijuca National Forest to get up close with the Christ the Redeemer statue without throngs of people around. After learning about its history from your local guide, move on to Sugar Loaf Mountain for spectacular views of the sprawling city.

And an opportunity to learn to samba with a carnival queen of Rio de Janeiro. Besides having a lot of fun, you will learn to sambar ....

Pedra da Gavea is one of the most challenging hikes in Rio, making it difficult to navigate on your own. Join this small-group tour for a guided trek through the rainforest that includes all climbing equipment, so you don’t have to worry about bringing your own. After trekking through the rainforest, you are rewarded with sweeping views of the city, its beaches, Sugarloaf Mountain, and the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue.

Trail with waterfalls, wild animals and caves. We walked through the forest, and through a historic park that was always full of activities. All this accompanied by a lot of information, history and nature.

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.

This experience combines one of Rio de Janeiro’s most spectacular sunrise and sunset views with the expertise of a knowledgeable local guide who speaks multiple languages and has extensive experience in hiking, outdoor activities, and adventure sports. Throughout the hike, your guide ensures a safe and enjoyable experience while sharing insights about the region, local culture, and the best photo opportunities. Reaching the trail through Vidigal and watching the sunrise from the summit of Two Brothers Hill offers an authentic and unforgettable way to experience Rio. With small group sizes, this tour provides a more personal experience, allowing everyone to hike at a comfortable pace, enjoy the scenery, and capture unforgettable moments.

Discover Pedra do Telégrafo with Rodrigo Índio Tours — more than just a trail, a unique adventure in Rio! Explore a little-known route with a local guide who knows every detail of the region. Take iconic photos from the cliff's edge, in complete safety and at a dedicated time to avoid crowds. Enjoy panoramic views of wild beaches and immerse yourself in the culture of the Guaratiba community. Comfortable transportation included, guaranteed fun and unforgettable memories! Avoid lines and crowds (strategic scheduling) Incredible photos without worry (with the help of a guide) Comfortable transportation from your hotel to the departure point

You haven’t experienced Rio until you’ve taken in a Brazilian sunset. Save time as an experienced guide and driver navigates you through the busy streets during this afternoon tour to popular attractions like Christ the Redeemer, Metropolitan Cathedral, and Selarón Stairs. Wrap up a wonderful day of exploration atop Sugar Loaf Mountain as you watch the sun set over iconic Copacabana Beach.

The bohemian Santa Teresa and the nightlife hub of Lapa are two of Rio de Janeiro’s most atmospheric neighborhoods. With this walking tour, explore some of the city’s most photo-worthy spots, including the Ruins Park (closed Tuesdays), the vibrant Selarón Steps, and Cinelândia. Take in the views as you ride the local tram, stroll through the Passeio Público, and visit the legendary Confeitaria Colombo café.

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.

Pedra do Telégrafo is certainly one of the most beautiful and most visited trails in Rio de Janeiro. Having an expert guide also makes all the difference and offers more security in the natural environment.

Discover one of the most complete and authentic surf experiences in Rio de Janeiro! Local trilingual instructors with over 10 years of surfing experience; Experience Rio like a local : as if a friend were showing you the best of the city; Full surf equipment included: surfboard and wetsuit (when needed); Surf at the beach with the best conditions for your level on the day of the lesson; Small groups for a more immersive, personalized, and exclusive experience; Certified travel agency with more than 8 years of experience: One Carioca Day; Over 2,500 customers from all around the world; More than 500 reviews across different platforms; Good vibes guaranteed; Let's surf together?

Experience the Ultimate Golf and Eco Adventure in Rio! Don’t miss the chance to combine sport, nature, and relaxation in one unforgettable day. Our exclusive Golf & Eco Tour offers: - Personalized Instruction from a multilingual expert, ensuring an exceptional experience for golfers of all levels. - A private tour through the stunning Pantanal Carioca, where you’ll explore unique wildlife with a knowledgeable biologist. - Convenient hotel pick-up and drop-off for a stress-free experience, so you can focus on enjoying the day. - Access to top-quality golf equipment, a gourmet lunch, and refreshing beverages after your game. - Exclusive access to the driving range for warm-up, so you’re ready for a fantastic round of golf. Join us every Saturday for this one-of-a-kind experience and make memories that will last a lifetime! Book now to secure your spot!

Take a day trip away from the hustle and bustle of Rio and explore the natural beauty of the rainforest on a white water rafting trip. Adventure on fast-flowing rivers and rapids, including exhilarating class IV rapids from May to September, and see local flora and fauna as you travel downstream. Learn about the forest and its inhabitants, and explore parts of the local countryside you couldn’t reach otherwise.

Tijuca Forest is huge, and it can be hard to find your way if you’re traveling there alone. Combine this Tijuca Forest tour and take a hike with a guide through the rainforest to see its most beautiful sights without getting lost. Plus, spot local wildlife like monkeys and exotic birds as you explore the park's waterfalls and caves.