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👉 History
👉 Getting There & Ticket Prices
👉 What to see
👉 My Review & Pics
The Rio Botanical Garden was founded in 1808 by the Portuguese Royal Family (King John VI or João VI in Portuguese) of Portugal. It's located near a residential neighborhood in the Quinta da Boa Vista at the foot of the Corcovado Mountain. This is the same mountain where Christ the Redeemer is located so there is the opportunity to combine trips.
The garden was originally established as an Imperial Botanic Garden with the purpose of cultivating new and exotic plants from around the world. The garden continued to expand after it was opened to the public in 1822 and now covers an area of approximately 350 acres, 130 of which are open to visitors.
It houses over 6,500 species of plants, including many rare and endangered species, and it is considered one of the most important botanical gardens in Latin America. In recent years, the garden has been modernized and developed, including the construction of a new greenhouse complex and a new visitor center. The garden is open to the public, and it hosts a variety of educational and recreational activities, including guided tours, lectures, workshops, and art exhibitions.
Tickets to the gardens can be purchased online at www.jbrt.org.br. Alternatively, you can also buy tickets in person at the ticket offices which are located at the entrance. Note: in person ticket purchases are CASH only! If you want to use your card, it's best to purchase ahead of time.
👉 100% worth visiting!
I was bummed to be rained out in the middle of my visit. I also left with a ton of bug bites. Future note to self: bring insect repellant!