In 1832 the Atlantic Rainforest overwhelmed Charles Darwin with its spectacular beauty and biological diversity. On this trail you ride through these exuberant forests of ancient trees and see a little of what enchanted the young Darwin all those years ago.
Rio de Janeiro state has some of the best preserved sections of the Atlantic Rainforest in Brazil – thanks, in part, to the inaccessibility of some of the mountainous areas. Birdwatchers will delight at the enormous variety of birds but the Atlantic Rainforest is also rich in reptiles, amphibians and butterflies. The vegetation is lush, thick and spectacular to behold – many trees are dripping with epiphytes and there is a hugely varied display of orchids and bromeliads.
During the week you ride on narrow tracks through the rainforest, over pastures, crossing rivers and following winding mountain trails. The dramatic mountains of this area can be seen all the way from the city of Rio de Janeiro, but you will feel a million miles away.
You ride on pure Peruvian Paso horses which are gaited and offer an additional gait which is similar to a running walk – this paso llano can be as fast as trotting but much more comfortable!
Regarding Transfer on 1st day, there are 2 options: clients arrive earlier and spent one day/night in Rio de Janeiro (good option to do a short visit to the city and also to rest before the ride (jet leg), or if they arrive in the morning and want to go direct, they will be transfered from the airport on arrival (most flights arrive early morning).
• Tips are commonly paid in Brazil. Tipping is not essential, but if you are happy with the service you have been given, then it will be gratefully received.
• If you wish to tip, then we recommend a tip of c. US$10 per guest per night. (can be paid in local currency).
• Open May – July and September – October
• Set departures & private groups
• 6 nights / 5 days riding
• 6 – 8 hours riding per day
• Weight limit: 90kg
• Usual maximum: 8
• Nearest airport: Rio de Janeiro
Ride starts in Cachoeiras de Macacu Area (1 ½ hour from city of Rio de Janeiro) and ends on the beach of Buzios.
The average temperature in the mountain rainforest ranges from 70 to 85°F (21 to 30°C) when the rides sea level temperatures can be from 3 to 5 degrees C or more.
Beach Ride, Forest Ride
Your first night is in the refuge, where there are two rooms with bunk beds, a toilet and shower. You have the option to camp at the viewpoint if you prefer.
Subsequent nights are in farm guesthouses in comfortable en-suite rooms.
Brazilian food is a colourful mix of Portuguese, African and native foods. There are always plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables on offer, plus lots of stunning fish and meats.
Vegetarians can be accommodated with advance notice.
“The trek was amazing and scenery beautiful. A real adventure! At stages the ride was very difficult and days quite long. Next time I would go fitter.” ~ Jane McFadzean
