Visitor Center - Botanical Garden of Rio de Janeiro — Attraction in Região Geográfica Imediata do Rio de Janeiro

We visited this attraction in July expecting cool temperatures and shady environment. When you enter, it’s not clear where to buy the entry tickets. Just follow the crowd to the entry… and join the rather long line to buy the tickets. I don’t know why the line is long because they only accept CASH. As a foreigner, you need 73 BRL per ticket. They give you a detailed map of things to see. CASH ONLY PLACE… remember that!

There are no matching numbers or markings to ensure that you are on the desired path. We chose the longest path and got lost a fee times. I wish there were some markers on the trails. I also wish the focal points were numbered as they are in the map making the tour easy to follow. But I guess that’s too much to ask!!

The entire path inside the garden takes you to various well-arranged and incredible areas of interest. You also see part of the ancient aqueduct passing at the north end of the park. We visited on a Thursday and it was fairly quiet and peaceful. It took us nearly two hours to cover the trail with over 8000 steps. Except for a single trail to the aqueduct, all other trails are flat and easy to navigate.

Wear comfortable shoes. Shorts and light clothing recommended- as we walked, we got pretty hot in our jeans even though the temperature was supposed to be 22-23C. DO bring water and any snacks you need to stay energized. It’s a very pleasant walk around the park and we definitely enjoyed our morning there.

After the visit, we walked 30 minutes to the Lagoa area (10 min Uber ride for 10-15BRL as an alternative) and had a fabulous churrascaria late lunch at Rio Bras near the lake. Check out that review too- we highly recommend that restaurant.

Visit to this botanical garden is a nice thing to do if you have some time and don’t mind walking for a couple of hours.

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The Jardim Botânico in Rio de Janeiro is a peaceful and well-maintained space that provides a thoughtful look at Brazil’s native and exotic plant life. Located at the base of Corcovado Mountain, it offers clear views of Christ the Redeemer and an organized layout that makes it easy to explore. The long rows of royal palms create a striking entrance, and the orchid and bromeliad houses are well-curated and informative. There are shaded walking paths, small streams, and ponds that attract local birds, making it a calm environment even in the middle of the city.

The signage throughout the gardens provides scientific and cultural context, and several areas feature plants from the Amazon and Atlantic Forests. The small café inside the grounds serves basic refreshments and offers outdoor seating near the lake. The nearby gift shop sells books and items related to Brazilian flora.

Visitors should expect to spend at least two hours to see the main highlights. Early mornings are cooler and less crowded. The Jardim Botânico is an effective combination of education and recreation, suitable for adults and families who want to learn more about Brazil’s biodiversity in a quiet, structured...

The rudest staff in all of Brazil. It's very touristy here so each tourist is treated extremely poorly - they'd rather you weren't there. Because of that it's not worth the trip - there are other gardens that are just as good and free without being treated with...