Easily accessible and just a half-hour walk away, the Catacumba Park trail offers one of the most breathtaking views of Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon. However, many locals still don’t know about or have never visited this special, free spot in Rio de Janeiro.
Since we don’t keep secrets here, we’ll tell you more about the park and the trail so you can include it in your next outing around the city!
Indigenous legend, community, and reforestation: the history of Catacumba Park
First, it’s worth sharing a bit about the history of Catacumba Park, a place that often goes unnoticed by locals and tourists alike.
In the early 20th century, where the Catacumba Municipal Natural Park stands today, there was a small farm, and according to popular legend, the indigenous people buried their dead on its hillside.
From an indigenous cemetery, the site came to house a community years later, with about two thousand homes and more than 10,000 people.
As early as the 1970s, the area underwent a process of reforestation and landscaping, transforming into a permanent park with trails and outdoor artwork.
It’s also worth noting that, for a time, the reserve still hosted music concerts on Sundays. But the large crowds began to degrade the space, and events of this type were banned.
A perfect combination of nature and adventure
However, Catacumba Park is open to visitors and is definitely worth a visit— it’s the perfect place to connect with nature amid the chaos of the city.
On the shores of Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon, the park features a variety of trees, plants, and flowers. Additionally, in the lower section, works and sculptures by renowned Brazilian artists make the walk even more interesting!
And the trail? Well , the trail at Catacumba Park is short and accessible, taking about 30 minutes in total.
However, this trail provides access not just to one, but to two lookout points! The first of these, the Sacopã Lookout, offers a panoramic view of the Lagoon, Pedra da Gávea, and several other tourist attractions.
As you climb a little further, you’ll reach the Mirante do Urubu, which offers a view of one of the city’s greatest symbols, Christ the Redeemer.
In addition to the trail, visitors can also try more extreme activities, such as zip-lining, tree climbing, rock climbing, rappelling, and more! However, all of these activities are paid and operated by a private company that works in the park.
So, did you already know about this spot?
Catacumba Park
📍Avenida Epitácio Pessoa, 3000 – Lagoa
🕛Tuesday through Sunday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
💵Free admission
