Reserva de Marapendi, Nature reserve in Barra da Tijuca and Recreio, Brazil.

Reserva de Marapendi is a protected coastal area covering roughly 665 hectares of mangroves, wetlands, and native plants spread across Barra da Tijuca and Recreio. The reserve displays different landscape types and vegetation zones that visitors can explore throughout the site.

The area was created to protect local ecosystems from development and degradation. In 2016, part of the reserve was integrated into the Olympic golf course, which brought wider recognition to the site.

The reserve's name comes from the Marapendi lagoon, which lies inside the park and is framed by restinga vegetation. The park forms part of the Marapendi Mosaic together with the Marapendi APA, the Barra da Tijuca Nelson Mandela park and the 77th MMHG. Picnic areas must be booked in advance with the park administration.

Marked trails guide visitors through the reserve with dedicated zones for bird watching and nature observation available from sunrise to sunset. Plan to spend time walking at your own pace and bring comfortable shoes plus sun protection.

The reserve contains a professional golf course integrated directly into the natural landscape, demonstrating how sport and nature conservation can coexist. This combination is unusual for Rio and makes the place distinct.