Wild Rio

Rio - the name itself conjures up images of colorful carnival dancers and 'chica chica boom' rhythmic music. But Rio isn't all about the dazzling nightlife, beach bodies or the famous 'Christ the Redeemer' landmark. You may be surprised to learn that Rio de Janeiro has secret "wildside" near the heart of the city.

Teeming with wondrous wildlife, the Tijuca National Park is 3200 hectares of lush-green jungle enveloping the city of Rio. The replanting of the forest was instigated by Emperor Dom Pedro II, who saw the need to counteract deforestation surrounding Rio. As a result of ten years replanting, the rainforest is now world's largest urban forest and home to thousands of different wildlife species including insects, birds, mammals and reptiles.

Sugar and coffee plantations were the reason so much of the original forest was ...

• Show Info
• Suggestions
• Share This
• Large Screen /Reset
• Comment

Do You Like "Wild Rio"?