Hotels near Jardim Botanico

The Jardim Botanico was laid out in 1808 under Dom Joao VI and now holds about 6,500 species across 54 hectares at the foot of Corcovado. Its signature is the Avenida das Palmeiras Imperiais, a double row of imperial palms 30 metres tall, all descended from a single original tree. There is an orchid house with more than 600 species, a Japanese garden, an Amazon section and a greenhouse of insectivorous plants.

Toucans, marmosets and capuchin monkeys are routine sightings rather than lucky ones. Entry is around R$ 79 (about 12 EUR) for non-residents, and the garden opens 08:00 to 17:00, Mondays from 12:00. Two hours covers the main paths at a slow pace. Neighbouring Parque Lage, five minutes away, is free and has a mansion courtyard cafe looking straight up at the statue.

Pro Tip: Pair the garden with Parque Lage in one morning and be at the Jardim Botanico gate for opening. Birds are active before 10:00 and the palm avenue is empty enough to photograph end to end.