Waterfall Circuit – Tijuca National Park

About this tour

Waterfalls, ruins, and the rich flora and fauna of the Atlantic Forest in one of Rio’s ecological hotspots. Live a unique experience in Tijuca National Park!

Discover one of the most captivating experiences in Rio de Janeiro’s Atlantic Forest: the Waterfall Circuit, a scenic trail that combines breathtaking nature, rich biodiversity, and fascinating history within Tijuca National Park.
Located in a historic valley that has attracted visitors since the 19th century, this route follows part of the renowned Transcarioca Trail through the Serra da Carioca sector. Along the way, hikers encounter beautiful waterfalls, crystal-clear natural pools, and remnants of old stone roads and historic structures that reveal centuries of human activity in the region.
Many sections of the trail follow former rural routes used between the 17th and 19th centuries to transport agricultural products. As you explore the forest, you’ll discover traces of old farms, sugar mills, aqueducts, and water-catchment systems that played a crucial role in supplying fresh water to Rio de Janeiro. Some of these historic systems remain in operation today.
The trail also offers excellent opportunities for wildlife observation. Visitors frequently spot capuchin monkeys, marmosets, coatis, sloths, toucans, and numerous species of colorful birds that inhabit this protected ecosystem.
The lush Atlantic Forest is home to an extraordinary variety of plant life, including jacarandas, cedars, jequitibás, jatobás, ipês, fig trees, and sapucaias, as well as orchids, bromeliads, anthuriums, and climbing vines that create a vibrant tropical landscape.
Throughout the hike, several waterfalls and refreshing natural pools invite visitors to cool off and connect with nature. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, wildlife, or cultural heritage, the Waterfall Circuit offers an unforgettable journey through one of Rio de Janeiro’s most important ecological treasures.

Why Choose Tijuca Waterfall Circuit in Rio?

For an unforgettable adventure: enjoy hidden waterfalls, wildlife sightings, and stunning forest scenery with expert guides who bring Tijuca National Park’s history and nature to life.
Get up close to Brazil’s vibrant ecosystem in a natural paradise.
Refreshing Waterfalls & Natural Pools!

• Tour details:

• Start time: 08am (meeting point in Jardim Botânico neighborhood)
• Tour duration: 5hs (approx)
• Hike level: moderate (level 3 of 5)
• Trail length: 10km / 6,2 miles (total)
• Elevation gain: 600m / 1965ft
• Trail duration: 3:30 hours (approx)
• Recommendations: wear light clothes and hiking shoes, bring a small backpack with water (1.5L, per person), swimming suits and sandals, dry clothes for changing, towel, snacks, sunscreen, mosquito repellent, cap or hat, sunglasses, and cash for extras.

• Prices: (Exclusive for group bookings)

• Solo traveler: check our home page with a list of tours to join in or contact us!
• Bookings of 1 or 2 people – R$ 290, per person
• Bookings of 3 people – R$ 270, per person
• Bookings of 4 people – R$ 250, per person
• Bookings of 5 or more people – R$ 230, per person
• All payments can be made by PayPal (no account creation required) with any credit card or with your on-line banking service.

• General information:

• If the chosen date or the number of participants is not available, contact us to schedule the tour with your group.
• Meeting point in Jardim Botânico neighborhood.

Book Now Tijuca Waterfall Hike in Rio! 🌿💦🥾

The Tijuca Waterfall Hike is the perfect experience for those seeking connection with nature, adventure, and unforgettable scenery in the heart of Rio de Janeiro. Hike along historic trails, refresh yourself in crystal-clear pools, and explore waterfalls surrounded by the lush Atlantic Forest.
RioXtreme was born to show that Rio de Janeiro has a lot of options besides traditional Tourism. We offer the best in Hiking, Adventure and Eco Tours in and around Rio for over fifteen years, treading our brand and identity in our tours, always focused on quality, safety, respect for nature and the others. Our certified and passionate team always seek to share this knowledge with the customers, and hope to make the experiences unique and unforgettable!