Parque Nacional da Tijuca is a lush 13 square mile forest, the only one in the world to be found inside a city, and all that is left of the tropical jungle that surrounded Rio de Janeiro at one time. A radical contrast to the built up concrete jungle of Copacaban, which is only 15 minutes away, you will discover verdant green forest, creeks and waterfalls, high peaks and exotic birds and wildlife including monkeys and iguanas. The fairy-tale Alto da Boavista is the heart of the park where you will be amazed by surrounding waterfalls and praks whilst dining in a restaurant. The Mayrink Chapel, Açude da Solidão dam, Cascatinha and Gabriela and Taunay Falls are within the park and from Vista Chinesa, Chinese Belvedere, you can see all the way to the upbeat neighbourhood of Ipanema. There are a number of excellent day hikes, but be sure to get hold of a map at Alto da Boavista first.

Rio de Janeiro's Parque Nacional da Tijuca is a paradise of note! Such a wonderful contrast to the city hustle and bustle, but even that has a special appeal in Rio de Janeiro. The special Rio de Janeiro hotels will make you feel at home when you return to relax after a fabulous day in the forest.