Rio de Janeiro Botanical Garden

The Rio de Janeiro Botanical Garden was founded in June 1808, just three months after the Portuguese court moved to Brazil as Napoleon threatened to invade Portugal.

Time is on the Botanical Garden's side. Of the 8,000 plant species which grow in the 350-acre expanse, many are towering, mature trees, including the royal palms which have become the Garden's symbol and pau-brasil, which has given the country its name. The Botanical Garden is a UNESCO biosphere reserve.

In 2008, bicentennial celebrations accounted for several revitalization projects. The opening of the Environment Museum and of Espaço Tom Jobim, a cultural center - the famous songwriter was a passionate Botanical Garden supporter - are part of the Garden's updated profile.

Address:

Rua Jardim Botânico 1008 (parking for bikes and cars)
Rua Jardim Botânico 920 (parking for bikes)

Phone: 55-21-3874-1808/ 3874-1214

Hours:

Daily 8a-5p. Closed on Dec.25 and Jan.1. Events at Espaço Tom Jobim have their own schedule.