We start the hike at the main gate of Tijuca National Park, located in Alto da Boa Vista. The first attraction is the largest waterfall in Tijuca Forest, Cascatinha Taunay, which delights visitors with its 35-meter cascade. We'll hike part of the way along the Trilha dos Bancos (Benches Trail) and part along the Estrada da Cascatinha (Cascatinha Road), passing by the Capela Mayrink (Mayrink Chapel) and the Recanto dos Pintores (Painters' Retreat) until we reach the National Park Museum, where we'll learn a little more about the history of the forest, its fauna, and its flora.

We'll continue along the trail, passing by the Tai Chi Chuan Retreat, heading towards Cachoeira das Almas waterfall, where we'll take a break for a swim and some contemplation. Going up a little further, we'll reach the “A Floresta” Restaurant, the ruins of a colonial mansion that was the headquarters of a large coffee farm in the 18th century and held great historical significance during the reforestation of Tijuca Forest.

We continue the hike along Estrada Major Archer to the Vista do Almirante, a spectacular observation deck where we can see the famous Pedra da Gávea and parts of other sectors of Tijuca National Park.

We continue the hike to the Bat Cave, an incredible spot for taking photos and videos.

Along the way, we'll see Cascata da Baronesa, Cascata Diamantina, and Cascata Gabriela, and we'll also pass by Restaurante Os Esquilos, a former residence of the royal family with colonial architecture and an antique shop with period decor. It has been home to the restaurant since 1945 and is much in demand for parties and events.

This hiking tour is an activity for people of all ages and levels of physical fitness, suitable for the whole family, with plenty of history and natural beauty. Get back to nature and enjoy!