Pico da Tijuca

Pico da Tijuca is the highest peak within Tijuca National Park, standing at approximately 1,022 meters (3,353 feet) above sea level and offering sweeping views of Rio de Janeiro and the Atlantic Ocean.

The area surrounding Pico da Tijuca was inhabited by indigenous peoples before Portuguese exploration and later became a protected area in the nineteenth century following decades of coffee cultivation and subsequent reforestation efforts.

The mountain serves as a symbol of natural beauty and ecological preservation in Rio de Janeiro, frequently used for traditional hikes, trail running events, and photography excursions especially during holiday seasons and local celebrations.

Visitors can reach the summit via well-marked trails starting from the parking area near Guarani Waterfall, with the hike typically taking two to three hours depending on pace and weather conditions.

The summit provides a distinctive vantage point for observing diverse flora and fauna endemic to the Atlantic Forest biome, including orchids, bromeliads, monkeys, and various bird species native to the region.