Trilha da Pedra Bonita

The trails were originally used by the local residents on their way to their farms. At the beginning of the path to Pedra Bonita, you can still see the original pavement made with pé-de-moleque. With the opening of larger roads, these paths fell into disuse. Pedra Bonita was deforested throughout the 19th century to meet the demand for wood and charcoal generated by the city's expansion. The area was then occupied by small rural properties that cultivated flowers and food sold at markets in Rio. The area was added to the Tijuca National Park in the 1960s. Pedra Bonita is located in front of the rock formation that made Pedra da Gávea famous, known as the Emperor's Head. According to folklore, it is what remains of the effigy of the Phoenician King, who allegedly attempted to colonize Rio in ancient times. Upon reaching the top, there is a large stone plateau from where you have a stunning view of São Conrado Beach, Morro Dois Irmãos, the South Zone, Pedra da Gávea, Barra da Tijuca, and the Tijuca Forest. The sunset is the highlight. When descending the trail, it's worth visiting the paragliding ramp, from where hang gliders and paragliders take off and land on Pepino Beach in São Conrado.