Rio de Janeiro Botanical Garden is an arboretum and research facility with thousands of plant species. Opossums, raccoons, monkeys and lizards often enter the garden from the neighboring Tijuca National Park. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere on your own or learn about the garden on a guided tour.
The garden features many different cultivated and natural environments, such as lakes, rivers, forests and landscaped areas. Stop at Macacos River, a picturesque waterway flowing from the Tijuca Massif. Friar Leandro Lake, a striking man-made lake filled with giant water lilies, is another highlight.
See many exotic birds, such as the beautiful channel-billed toucan, in the arboretum. The garden also contains sloths, big-eared opossums and crab-eating raccoons. Look for black capuchins, an endangered primate species that has adapted to the garden. Turtle Lake is a great place to see reptiles, including many species of lizards and harmless snakes.
Learn about the garden’s natural and cultural resources on a thematic tour. You may want to book an electric car tour to explore the 350 acres (140 hectares) of this vast space. Tours focus on the garden’s large collection of outdoor artworks, important plant species and other interesting features.
Medicinal plants, thousands of specimens of bromeliads and other fascinating biological collections can be seen in Rio de Janeiro Botanical Garden. Study thousands of tropical flora species in the palm tree collection or stop at the herbarium to see dried specimens dating to the late 19th century.
Find Rio de Janeiro Botanical Garden about 8 miles (13 kilometers) from downtown Rio de Janeiro. The garden is open every day, excluding Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. Check the official website for opening times and tour information. Discounted parking is available for garden visitors in the neighboring Jockey Club Brasileiro car park.
With a large playground containing wooden toys and sandboxes, Rio de Janeiro Botanical Garden is perfect for young families.
