In the heart of the South Zone, the Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon is a body of water of about 2.4 km², ringed by mountains, with Christ the Redeemer high on Corcovado above. Surrounded by neighborhoods such as Ipanema, Leblon, Jardim Botânico and Humaitá, it is one of the city’s most beautiful settings.
Around the Lagoon, a path of about 7.5 km for walking and cycling makes it one of cariocas’ favorite places to exercise. Along the way there are kiosks with food and, at many of them, live music, as well as pedal boats for getting out on the water.
The Lagoon also has a sporting tradition: rowing clubs have lined its shores for generations, and in 2016 it hosted the rowing and canoe sprint events of the Olympic Games. At year’s end, the floating Christmas tree — set up in many years since the 1990s — has become one of the city’s attractions.
There is plenty to see around it. Parque da Catacumba has an open-air sculpture garden and a trail to the Mirante do Sacopã lookout, with a view over the whole Lagoon. Parque dos Patins has kiosks, lawns and a play area for children.
The highlight is late afternoon: the sun sets behind the mountains, the water reflects the colorful sky and, as night falls, Christ the Redeemer lights up above. That is when the path fills with people walking, cycling and gathering at the kiosks.
Tips: do the full loop on foot or by bike in the late afternoon and end at one of the kiosks. During the day, bring water and sunscreen, as some stretches have little shade. For the Catacumba trail, go in the morning and wear comfortable shoes.