Tijuca Forest Tour - Animals, Waterfalls, Hiking

Welcome to Rio de Janeiro! Rio is a city meant to be experienced, not just visited. Beyond the famous landmarks, what truly makes this place special is its lifestyle — the beaches, the views, the food, the rhythm of everyday life, and the energy of the people who live here. My name is Flavio, a proud Carioca born and raised in Rio, and I love sharing this unique lifestyle with visitors from around the world. My background is in gastronomy and hospitality. I hold a degree in Gastronomy and have over 20 years of experience working in restaurants and hotels, including time in the United States, France, Spain, and Curaçao. I was also the owner of my own restaurant for eight years, an experience that shaped my attention to detail, service mindset, and passion for creating memorable experiences for guests. I am also a licensed professional tour guide in Brazil and South America, certified by Embratur. As a teenager, I spent a year in the United States as an exchange student in Wellington, near West Palm Beach, where I played on my high school’s varsity soccer team. Living abroad at a young age helped me understand different cultures and perspectives, something that continues to influence the way I welcome travelers today. My tours are completely private and always flexible. We can visit Rio’s iconic landmarks, but I also love showing my guests the local lifestyle, beautiful viewpoints, hidden corners, and gastronomy that many visitors never experience. Because of my background in gastronomy, many guests also enjoy discovering Rio through its flavors — from traditional Brazilian dishes to local markets, casual neighborhood spots, and great restaurants. Food is an important part of the city’s culture and a wonderful way to experience everyday life in Rio. Rio is also surrounded by incredible nature, including the lush forests of Tijuca National Park, one of the largest urban rainforests in the world. For guests who enjoy nature and outdoor experiences, I also guide forest hikes and scenic trails, offering a chance to explore waterfalls, viewpoints, and the rich biodiversity that makes Rio so unique. Because of my background in hospitality, I pay close attention to the pace and comfort of the tour, adapting the experience to your interests, curiosity, and energy level. Many of my guests especially appreciate this relaxed and personalized approach, which allows them to explore the city without feeling rushed. Outside of guiding, sports and outdoor life are a big part of who I am. I’m passionate about surfing, boxing (I competed as an amateur fighter), and futevôlei — a Brazilian beach sport that combines soccer and volleyball. I’m also a proud supporter of Botafogo de Futebol e Regatas, my hometown football club and a true expression of Rio’s local culture. In addition to Rio de Janeiro, I also guide tours in São Paulo and nearby destinations, and I often help travelers plan their trips across different regions of Brazil. All tours are conducted in my own safe and comfortable vehicle. If you’re looking for an authentic, relaxed, and personalized way to experience Rio, I’d be happy to show you the city through a local’s eyes — always at your pace.