Nature
The highland region is full of choices for those who are seeking
the kind of inner peace contact with Nature allows
» Mountains
Eco-tourism and adventure sports in the mountains
The two mountain chains crossing Rio
de Janeiro state running parallel to the ocean - Serra do Mar
(Ocean Highlands) and Serra da Mantiqueira - impress one from
afar due to their imposing size and harmonious contours. They
are even more impressive from close up, such is the beauty and
diversity of their huge cliffs, hills, mounts and valleys.
The highland region is full of choices for those who are seeking
the kind of inner peace contact with Nature allows: hikes through
ecological sanctuaries, walks and horse rides along trails,
swims in rivers and under crystal clear waterfalls. There are
also alternatives for climbing enthusiasts as well as rappelling,
rafting, canoeing, hang-gliding, paragliding and other extreme
sports.
The enchantment of the highland cities is one of a kind. They
are small, welcoming and strongly marked by the culture of their
European immigrants. This influence can be seen in the houses,
hotels and inns which take the shape of chalets, and in the
predominance of dishes from French, German, Swiss and Finnish
cookbooks.
The Mantiqueira Mountains guard a veritable treasure in the
Agulhas Negras (Black Needle) Region: Itatiaia National Park,
where at more than 2,700 meters you’ll find the state’s
highest point. This is the region where you’ll also find
the tourist area made up of Itatiaia, Penedo and Visconde de
Mauá.
Serra do Mar (Ocean Mountains), which is called “Macaw
Mountains” in the Green Imperial Mountains, has Petrópolis
and its charming suburbs, Itaipava and Corrêas. There’s
also Serra dos Órgãos, with Friburgo in the same
region as well as Teresópolis’ post card perfect
peak, Dedo de Deus (God’s Finger). These cities all make
for not to be missed excursions for those who visit the state,
as they are quite close to the capital city.
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