Top 6 Nature Experiences in Rio de Janeiro to Enjoy During Rock in Rio

Rock in Rio is the biggest music festival on the planet and, with every edition, attracts thousands of music lovers to the Marvelous City. However, since the main concerts take place in the late afternoon and evening, many travelers face a practical question: what should you do in Rio before the festival or on the days between concerts?

If you want to go beyond the obvious and combine the energy of the festival with the true natural essence of Rio de Janeiro, the answer lies in outdoor adventures. The city is a giant natural playground offering:

• Scenic hiking trails with panoramic views
• Rappelling and climbing at iconic landmarks
• Hidden viewpoints and waterfalls within the Atlantic Forest
• Unique outdoor experiences

To help you plan your itinerary without compromising your energy for the concerts, Nattrip’s team of specialists has selected six ecotourism experiences in Rio de Janeiro. We considered three essential factors for your trip: efficient logistics, breathtaking scenery, and 100% safe operations led by specialized guides.

1. Pedra Bonita

Average duration: 3 hours
Difficulty: Easy
Best time: Morning (7:00 AM – 10:00 AM)

Pedra Bonita is one of the best choices for travelers who want to make the most of their time during Rock in Rio. Located within Tijuca National Park, the trail is short, shaded, and takes approximately 40 minutes to reach the summit.

At the top, you’ll enjoy one of Rio de Janeiro’s most iconic viewpoints, overlooking the impressive Pedra da Gávea, the South Zone beaches, and the famous hang gliding and paragliding launch ramp.

Why visit on a festival day?

Because it’s a short, low-impact activity, you can start your day early, enjoy spectacular views, return to your hotel for lunch, and head to the City of Rock feeling relaxed and energized.

2. Pico da Tijuca or Bico do Papagaio

Average duration: 4 hours
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Best time: Morning (8:00 AM – 12:00 PM)

       Pico da Tijuca (the highest peak within Tijuca National Park) and Bico do Papagaio are two classic hiking destinations in Rio. This experience offers a morning immersed in the Atlantic Forest, with the flexibility to choose the route that best matches your fitness level.

Both hikes provide the rewarding feeling of reaching a summit without excessive physical strain. Along the way, you’ll discover Rio’s history, natural viewpoints, and exceptional panoramic perspectives of the city.

Why visit on a festival day?

The easy access to the Forest Sector of Tijuca National Park allows you to leave early from either the South Zone or West Zone, complete the hike comfortably, return for a shower and meal, and still arrive at the festival with plenty of time.

3. Tijuca National Park Secret Waterfalls Trail

Average duration: 4 hours
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Best time: Morning (8:00 AM – 12:00 PM)

Not every traveler is looking for steep climbs or exposed heights. If your goal is to relax, cool off, and recharge, the Secret Waterfalls Trail is the perfect choice.

This original Nattrip experience was selected by Embratur for the Feel Brasil Project as one of the 101 Most Authentic Experiences in Brazil. The route visits secluded waterfalls and natural pools hidden inside Tijuca National Park, away from the crowds.

It’s an introspective experience, perfect for couples and small groups looking to reconnect with nature at a slower pace.

Why visit on a festival day?

It’s the perfect morning “energy boost” before spending hours enjoying concerts at the City of Rock—refreshing both body and mind without causing muscle fatigue.

4. Pedra da Gávea

Average duration: 5–8 hours
Difficulty: Challenging
Best time: Early morning departure

Pedra da Gávea is one of the world’s most iconic mountains and the largest seaside monolith on Earth, rising 842 meters (2,762 ft) above sea level.

The ascent is demanding, requiring excellent physical fitness, and includes the famous Carrasqueira section—a steep rock passage where ropes and the guidance of a specialized Nattrip guide are essential.

Why visit on a day between concerts?

Because of its duration and physical demands, we do not recommend this hike on the same day you’ll spend hours standing at the festival. Save this adventure for a free day, allowing enough time to enjoy Rio’s legendary 360-degree views and recover afterward.

5. Sugarloaf Coast Trail

Average duration: 3 hours
Difficulty: Challenging
Best time: Afternoon (3:00 PM – 6:00 PM)

For those seeking a technical and unforgettable adventure, the Sugarloaf Coast Trail reveals Rio’s most vertical and adventurous side.

The route combines a steep hike with an exciting rock scramble, where ropes and safety equipment are used to ensure participants’ safety throughout the experience.

This isn’t just about admiring Sugarloaf Mountain—it’s about conquering it via an exclusive and active route, with Guanabara Bay stretching beneath your feet.

Why visit on a day between concerts?

Reaching the summit in the late afternoon rewards you with one of Rio’s most spectacular sunsets. Since the activity demands focus and adrenaline, it’s the ideal experience for a free day, allowing you to descend afterward aboard the iconic Sugarloaf cable car.

6. Pedra do Telégrafo

Average duration: 5–6 hours
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Best time: Morning

Famous worldwide for its creative optical illusion photos that appear to hang over a dramatic cliff, Pedra do Telégrafo is located in Barra de Guaratiba, in Rio’s West Zone.

The trail showcases one of the city’s most untouched coastal regions, offering breathtaking views of the Wild Beaches and the Marambaia Restinga.

Why visit on a day between concerts?

Although Guaratiba belongs to the same general region as the City of Rock (West Zone), the journey and hike require an entire morning. With Nattrip’s local guides and included transportation, it’s the perfect day trip for travelers looking to discover a side of Rio beyond the traditional tourist routes.

How to Plan Your Rock in Rio Adventure Itinerary

• On concert days: Prioritize shorter morning activities with simple logistics. Pedra Bonita, Pico da Tijuca, and the Secret Waterfalls Trail are excellent options, allowing you to have lunch, rest, and arrive at Barra da Tijuca before the festival gates open (usually around 2:00 PM).

• On days between concerts: Take the opportunity to raise the adventure level. Spend the day conquering Pedra da Gávea, exploring the exclusive Sugarloaf Coast Trail, or enjoying the spectacular scenery of Pedra do Telégrafo.

Alternating high-intensity adventures with lighter outdoor experiences will ensure your trip to Rio de Janeiro is complete, safe, and unforgettable—while keeping your energy high to sing along to your favorite artists at Rock in Rio.