Pico da Tijuca

Pico da Tijuca is the highest point in Tijuca National Park at 1,021 m, in the Alto da Boa Vista district of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The trail is commonly started near Praça Afonso Viseu and the Bom Retiro ranger point, reached by Uber or taxi for about R$35-60 from the South Zone, or by bus to Alto da Boa Vista followed by a walk or short ride. Parking is available near the Bom Retiro area for those driving. The hike is about 4 km round trip from the Bom Retiro point, with around 600 m of elevation gain, and typically takes three to four hours. The first part follows a well-marked dirt path through dense Atlantic rainforest, with roots, steps and steady climbing. Shade is abundant for most of the route, and small streams and waterfalls are nearby in the park, though water on the trail should not be relied on and 2 litres should be carried. The final section is a stone stairway with metal chains and a short scramble known as the Bom Retiro stairs, which requires hands but no ropes. At the top the open summit gives views over Rio's city, Guanabara Bay, Corcovado and the Atlantic on clear days. The trail is rated moderate, and the chained final stretch is exposed but short. Hikers can turn around before the last stairs if unsure, though the summit view is the main reward. Weather changes quickly on the mountain, with afternoon storms common in summer, so an early start is recommended and a rain jacket should be packed. There are no huts or shelters along the route, and cell coverage can be unreliable. Boots or shoes with good grip are advised as the path is muddy after rain. Hikers should plan to descend before dusk, since the forest darkens early.