By Dermot O’Sullivan
RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – For those who want to experience a slice of Rio’s natural beauty but are not comfortable hiking in the mountains and forests, this walk from Santa Teresa to Corcovado and Alto da Boa Vista is an easy and flexible option that takes the hiker through the historic and picturesque neighborhood of Santa Teresa, and then on through a portion of the Atlantic Forest.
Most of the walk is relatively flat, and the few climbs are not particularly arduous. All sections follow the road, so at many points, it is possible to resupply or to cut short the trip if need be (taxi/bus).
A good starting point for this walk is Largo dos Guimarães in Santa Teresa. The nicest way to get there is to take the bonde (tram) from Largo da Carioca downtown to the Guimarães stop. From here take Rua Almirante Alexandrino and keep following the road up into Santa Teresa.
On the way, you will have views over the North Zone of Rio and pass many beautiful houses, including the Castelo Valentim. If in any doubt about the direction, look for road signs for Corcovado, or ask locals.
After the community of Prazeres, the road becomes more forested, and there are fewer houses. At the turn-off for Rua Professor Mauriti Santos, there is usually a coconut seller, and this is an excellent place to refresh and rest.
After this come some of the more challenging stretches as the road ascends towards Corcovado on the Estrada das Paineiras. After a challenging but beautiful climb up through the forest (there are often Capuchin monkeys here) you will arrive at the base of Corcovado, and the access point for Christ the Redeemer.
Here there are shops and eateries, as well as public bathrooms in the shopping area (you can even visit the Cristo statue itself if you wish). There is also a beautiful model of the Tijuca National Park and an exhibition on the Atlantic Forest with some incredible wildlife photos of many of the most stunning species native to this ecosystem.
Opposite the shops, beside the viewpoint, begins the Estrada Redentor road, which will take you to Alto da Boa Vista. This stretch is undoubtedly the most beautiful of the hike, with gorgeous views over Lagoa and the South Zone out to the Atlantic.
The surrounding slopes are full of rain forest, and many rare plant and animal species can be observed.
I would strongly advise doing this walk on a weekend or holiday as this section will be closed to cars. This makes for a much more relaxed and peaceful experience (though it does mean no taxis will be passing).
There are also some waterfalls to cool down along the roadway and so bring towels and togs if this interests you!
This road will eventually descend and emerge in a residential street that gives onto Alto da Boa Vista (just to the right). Here one can take a variety of buses both to Barra and back into the city center, or to the Metro stops of Jardim Oceânico and Uruguai respectively.
For those who are more adventurous (or not yet tired) it also possible to walk down to these Metro stops.
Duration: about six hours.
Bring: Water, lunch, sun and rain protection.
Advice: Take normal precautions regarding crime, avoid walking alone or with valuables.