Mesa do Imperador Rio de Janeiro
A historic viewpoint in Tijuca Forest offering breathtaking panoramic views of Rio de Janeiro, once a resting spot for Emperor Dom Pedro I.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Crystal clear views
Mesa do Imperador Rio de Janeiro
Best Time
Crystal clear views

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic viewpoint in Tijuca Forest offering breathtaking panoramic views of Rio de Janeiro, once a resting spot for Emperor Dom Pedro I.
"The view is amazing, especially after 2 days of rain!"
🐒 Respect the Monkeys
Do not feed the monkeys! They can become aggressive if you don't have food to offer.
🚴 Bike-Friendly Path
Ideal for cycling enthusiasts; the route offers beautiful scenery and a great workout.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Imperial Panoramic View
Summit of Mesa do Imperador
Savor the stunning, expansive vistas of Rio de Janeiro, particularly vibrant after rainfall.

Historic Emperor's Table
Central concrete table
See the very spot where Emperor Dom Pedro I once dined, surrounded by iconic palm trees.

Tijuca Forest's Natural Beauty
Surrounding forest
Immerse yourself in the lush greenery and vibrant ecosystem of one of the world's largest urban forests.

Monkey Encounters
Trees around the mesa
Observe the local capuchin monkeys, but remember not to feed them to avoid aggressive behavior.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Views, Respect the Wildlife
Getting There: A Scenic Journey
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐒 Respect the Monkeys
Do not feed the monkeys! They can become aggressive if you don't have food to offer.
🚴 Bike-Friendly Path
Ideal for cycling enthusiasts; the route offers beautiful scenery and a great workout.
📸 Capture the Vista
The views are spectacular, especially after rain. Bring your camera for unforgettable shots.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking and exploring the forest, so comfortable footwear is a must.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐒 Respect the Monkeys
Do not feed the monkeys! They can become aggressive if you don't have food to offer.
🚴 Bike-Friendly Path
Ideal for cycling enthusiasts; the route offers beautiful scenery and a great workout.
📸 Capture the Vista
The views are spectacular, especially after rain. Bring your camera for unforgettable shots.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking and exploring the forest, so comfortable footwear is a must.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking panoramic views from Mesa do Imperador, especially after rain, and appreciate its historical significance as a former imperial resting spot. The lush surroundings of Tijuca Forest add to its charm, though encounters with aggressive monkeys are a common cautionary tale.
"This is one of the best(safe) place to ride bike in Rio! The view is amazing, special after 2 days of rain!"
Sérgio Gomes
"Fica a mais ou menos 1km para cima da Vista Chinesa, a vista é linda também. Cuidado com os macacos, eles são muito mal acostumados com pessoal dando comida pra eles, que se vc não tem nada a oferecer eles te atacam! (Quase apanhei 😂)"
Juliana Kosloski
"Amo todo e qualquer lugar da Floresta da Tijuca. Este local fica a caminho da Vista Chinesa e está numa altitude de 487 metros. Vemos uma mesa longa de concreto entre 2 palmeiras. A história conta que quando D Pedro I vinha de charrete desde seu Palácio- Quinta da Boa Vista - para a Estrada da Vista Chinesa, parava aqui para fazer refeições, desfrutando de uma das mais belas vistas do Rio. Os macacos entre as árvores são também uma bela atração."
Miri Levy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mesa do Imperador is located within the Tijuca National Park. Many visitors access it by car or bike, often as part of a larger tour of the park. Public transport options are limited, so consider ride-sharing services or organized tours for easier access.
Yes, Mesa do Imperador is located approximately 1 km uphill from Vista Chinesa, making it easy to visit both attractions in one trip.
Exploring the Tijuca Forest can be done by car, bike, or on foot. Cycling is a popular choice for reaching Mesa do Imperador, offering a scenic and active way to experience the park.
Several tour operators in Rio de Janeiro offer guided excursions that include Mesa do Imperador and other key attractions within the Tijuca Forest. This can be a convenient option if you prefer not to drive.
The roads within Tijuca National Park are generally paved but can be winding. Drive cautiously, especially if you are not familiar with the area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Mesa do Imperador is located within the Tijuca National Park, which generally has free entry for visitors. However, specific areas or facilities within the park might have associated fees, though this is uncommon for Mesa do Imperador itself.
Mesa do Imperador is an outdoor viewpoint within Tijuca National Park. The park is typically open from early morning until late afternoon. It's best to check the official Tijuca National Park website for the most current hours.
Generally, there is no entrance fee to access most areas of Tijuca National Park, including Mesa do Imperador. However, policies can change, so it's advisable to verify before your visit.
While the park has operating hours, Mesa do Imperador is an open viewpoint. Visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and to fully appreciate the views.
The main restriction is to respect the natural environment and wildlife. Do not feed the monkeys and avoid leaving any trash behind.
📸 📸 Photography
The best time for photography is often after a rain shower, as the air is clearer and the colors of the landscape are more vibrant. Early mornings can also offer beautiful light with fewer crowds.
You can capture stunning panoramic shots of Rio de Janeiro's skyline, Guanabara Bay, and surrounding mountains. The historic table itself also makes for interesting compositions.
The main viewpoint offers the most iconic vistas. Experiment with different angles from the edges of the mesa to frame the landscape effectively.
It is generally safe to take photos, but always be aware of your surroundings, especially regarding the monkeys and any uneven terrain.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A telephoto lens can be useful for zooming in on distant city landmarks.
🎫 🐒 Wildlife & Nature
The most notable wildlife are the capuchin monkeys that inhabit the trees around the mesa. You might also spot various bird species and other small forest creatures.
While generally not aggressive if left alone, the monkeys can become aggressive if people feed them or if they feel threatened. It's crucial not to feed them and to maintain a respectful distance.
The area is part of the Tijuca Forest, which boasts rich Atlantic Rainforest vegetation, including various species of trees, ferns, and flowering plants.
Hiking trails are available, but it's important to stick to marked paths and be aware of your surroundings. Inform someone of your hiking plans and carry water.
Mesa do Imperador is situated at an altitude of approximately 487 meters (around 1,600 feet) above sea level.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting in the morning when the weather is cooler and the crowds are thinner. Bringing plenty of water and snacks is advisable, as facilities are limited. The relatively short distance from the parking area to the mesa makes it manageable for families with younger children. Ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes for exploring the area safely.
🚴 Adventure Seekers & Cyclists
Many cyclists combine a trip to Mesa do Imperador with other popular cycling routes within the park, such as the road leading to Vista Chinesa. Remember to carry water, wear appropriate cycling gear, and be aware of other vehicles on the road. The reward at the top – the breathtaking views – makes the effort entirely worthwhile.
📸 Photographers
Experiment with wide-angle lenses to encompass the vastness of the view, and consider a telephoto lens to pick out details of the city. Be mindful of the monkeys, as they can be a distraction or even a photographic subject, but always maintain a safe distance. The surrounding forest also offers opportunities for capturing lush greenery and natural textures.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Imperial History of Mesa do Imperador
Visiting Mesa do Imperador is not just about the views; it's about stepping back in time. The very air seems to carry echoes of a bygone era. The strategic location, offering commanding views, likely made it an ideal resting point for the emperor, blending leisure with the practicalities of travel in the 19th century. The surrounding lushness of the Tijuca Forest only enhances the sense of historical grandeur.
Navigating the Wildlife: Monkeys of Mesa do Imperador
To ensure a safe and enjoyable visit, maintain a respectful distance from the monkeys. Keep your belongings secure, as they can be curious and quick. Appreciating them from afar allows you to witness their natural behavior without encouraging dependency or conflict. Remember, you are a guest in their natural habitat, and respecting their space is paramount for everyone's safety and the preservation of the forest's wildlife.
Cycling to the Emperor's Table
Cycling allows visitors to immerse themselves in the sights and sounds of the Atlantic Rainforest. The cooler air, the scent of damp earth and foliage, and the occasional glimpse of wildlife create a truly invigorating experience. Many recommend combining a bike ride to Mesa do Imperador with other scenic spots within the park, such as Vista Chinesa, for a comprehensive exploration of Rio's natural wonders.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit