Tijuca National Park, National park in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Tijuca National Park is a protected forest area covering 3,958 hectares of mountainous terrain in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Multiple hiking trails wind through dense Atlantic rainforest to elevated viewpoints over the city and coastline.
From 1862, Emperor Pedro II ordered the reforestation of the Tijuca massif after coffee and sugarcane farms had dried up the springs supplying Rio's drinking water. Major Archer began the work with six enslaved workers, and 100,000 seedlings, mostly Atlantic Forest natives, were planted over thirteen years. His successor, Baron d'Escragnolle, added landscaping, fountains and lakes for public use.
The forest emerged from the world's largest urban reforestation project and now displays a dense green canopy over trails and waterfalls. Visitors encounter howler monkeys and toucans along the paths, while the vegetation glows in tropical green throughout the year.
The park has several entrances accessible from different Rio neighborhoods, with trails offering varying difficulty levels. Guided hikes typically start in the morning, and visitors should bring water, sturdy footwear and sun protection.
The forest is the result of replanting ordered by Pedro II from 1862: Major Archer began the work with six enslaved workers, and 100,000 seedlings went in over thirteen years, mostly Atlantic Forest species. His successor, Baron d'Escragnolle, added landscaping with lakes and fountains for public use. The jackfruit tree, introduced later, adapted so well that its large fruits and prolific seeds now make it almost a pest.
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