Over 1000m of mountain culminating in an epic staircase carved into the rock. Reaching Pico da Tijuca is literally arriving at the top of the forest.
Pico da Tijuca reigns supreme as the highest point in the Tijuca National Park (and the second highest in the entire city), with an imposing altitude of 1,021 meters. Reaching its summit is an experience that blends athletic effort, environmental immersion, and a deep sense of achievement.
The main access point is from Largo do Bom Retiro. The hike meanders up the mountain for about 1.5 to 2 hours. Although long, the trail is wonderfully shaded and the incline is steady, lacking the steep aggression of other city peaks.
The grand climax of this adventure is in the final meters. To reach the summit, adventurers must climb an impressive staircase of 117 steps carved directly into the solid rock in the early 20th century, using iron chains as a handrail. Up there, the cold wind rewards your effort with an awe-inspiring 360-degree view spanning the North Zone, the Fluminense Lowlands, the Rio-Niterói Bridge, and the South Zone.
Cariocando Tip: Combine your trip with a visit to the other wonders of the Tijuca National Park, as the drive up to the trailhead already passes by several interesting forest waterfalls and lookouts.
