The sprawling Floresta da Tijuca is one of Rio's finest settings for a hike through tropical rainforest. Waterfalls, grottoes and craggy peaks are all part of the scenery of this massive protected area. The most challenging walk is the ascent up the 1012-meter-high Pico da Tijuca, which offers superb views over forest and ocean. Although you can go on your own (by taxi or hire car), most visitors to the park go on a guided tour, like those offered by Jungle Me (www.jungleme.com.br) or Rio Hiking (www.riohiking.com.br).