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Rio De Janeiro Day 2 Itinerary

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The Tijuca National Park is located right in the middle of Rio de Janeiro. It covers an area of 60 square miles and is the second smallest Brazilian National Park. It is the only forest in the world located inside a city. The Park is set in the south side of Rio and its most visible landmark is the Statue of Christ the Redeemer on Corcovado Hill. You can enjoy the lush forest, waterfalls, exotic birds and wildlife. Its vegetation was replanted after a decree to take the land back from all the coffee and sugar cane plantations. A lot of the original fauna was lost but with great efforts the forest was replanted and is now an amazing flora and fauna diversity.

It is easy to get to the park because it is divided into three sections by major roads. One part next to the ocean is Pedra da Gavea and Pdera Bonita that you can access through Canoas Road. The Three Rivers Forest can be accessed through Grajau-Jacarepagua Road. On the main part of the forest you have the tallest peek, Pico da Tijuca at 1022 meters.

There is an abundance of hiking trails but in the main area you should hike with a guide. Sometimes there are thieves hiding behind trees just waiting for lone hikers to pass by. Since the trails take most of the day to hike, it is recommended you start early in the morning ad take food and lots of water with you. You will also need a hat and insect repellent. You can also ride the trails in a jeep but you won’t get as far up the rocks. Some trails are perfect for mountain biking, again remember not to go along and stay together. Alto da Boavista is the core of the park where you can dine at restaurants. Other points of interest in the forest are the Mayrink Chapel, Acude da Solidao dam, Cascatinha and Gabriela and Taunay Falls. Another favorite spot is Pedra Bonita where you will see the hang gliders. This is a nice oasis in the middle of a bustling city.

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