Rainforest Bike Tour – Mountain Biking in Rio's Tijuca Forest

Highlights

• Mirante Dona Marta, one of the best views in Rio
• The Carioca River, which gave the people of Rio their name
• The Paineiras Visitor Centre at the foot of Christ the Redeemer
• The car-free Redentor road: waterfalls, rainforest and, with luck, monkeys and toucans
• Small group of up to 6, with a local guide

The route

We start in Cosme Velho, a historic neighbourhood once known for its orange groves and country houses, and home to Machado de Assis, one of Brazil's greatest writers. From there we meet the Carioca River, the city's first water supply, and begin the climb into the forest. The steepest climb ends at one of Rio's finest lookouts, where there's time to catch your breath and take in the city below. At the Paineiras Visitor Centre you can grab a drink and a snack before the best part: the Redentor road, closed to private cars, with roadside waterfalls and the sounds of the rainforest all around.

Is it for me?

This is our most active bike tour. You should be comfortable on a bike and happy with some steep climbs. If you'd prefer something gentler, the Easy Forest Bike Tour covers the car-free forest road without the climb, and the 12 Beaches Bike Tour is almost completely flat.

Practical information

• Duration: 3.5 hours (about 20–25 km)
• Start times: 7:30 and 14:00
• Ages: 15+
• Group size: up to 6
• Price: R$360 per adult, R$300 youth (15–17)
• Included: quality mountain bike, helmet, bottled water, snacks, guide
• Bring: sunscreen, insect repellent, comfortable clothes and closed shoes (water is provided)
• When booking we ask each rider's height, so your bike is the right size.
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before.

FAQ

How hard is it? There are some steep climbs, especially the climb to the lookout, but you set the pace and can stop whenever you like. Some guests walk short sections.

Will I see wildlife? Often. Monkeys, toucans and coatis are common, but they're wild animals, so we can't promise.

Do I visit the Christ the Redeemer statue? The ride passes below the statue with great views of it, but doesn't go up to the monument. If you'd like to visit the statue, take our Christ the Redeemer Forest Hike.