Bico do Papagaio

Deep within Tijuca National Park, a shadowy peak known as Bico do Papagaio (Parrot’s Beak) has long captured the imagination. This majestic point, the second highest in the park at 989 meters, earns its name from its distinct, pointed shape. Bico do Papagaio wasn’t always its name. The indigenous Tupinambá people, who believed it emanated bad energy, originally called it Pedra Dente (Tooth Rock) or Dente dos Espíritos (Spirits’ Tooth). They often avoided this imposing peak. While Pico da Tijuca draws the largest crowds, the trail to Bico do Papagaio is the second most popular in the forest. The journey begins at Largo do Bom Retiro. The initial ascent is gentle and shaded by the lush Atlantic Forest. However, after the fork to Morro da Cocanha, the trail becomes a steep climb. You’ll need your hands to navigate the roots and rocks on your way to the summit. From the rocky summit of Bico do Papagaio, a breathtaking 360-degree view unfolds. Nearby peaks like Pico da Tijuca, Morro da Cocanha, and Pedra do Conde stand in full view. Further out, you can spot Pedra da Gávea and Sugarloaf Mountain. Even Christ the Redeemer, peeking between antennas atop Corcovado, is visible. The vista extends to include the north and south zones of Rio, Barra da Tijuca beach, the Jacarepaguá lowlands, and the Pedra Branca massif. On a clear day, you might even glimpse the silhouette of the Serra dos Órgãos mountains beyond Guanabara Bay. For the descent, consider the alternate Serrilha do João Antônio trail. This path, also known as Caminho da Serrilha, offers stunning views but is more challenging. It includes navigating the Fenda do Inferno (Hell’s Crack), a narrow passage through the rock with a sheer drop-off. This route also leads to Ponta do Urubu (Vulture’s Point). This point provides arguably the best perspective on the enigmatic rock formations of Bico do Papagaio.