Parque Cão Sentado
Discover Nova Friburgo's natural wonder, the Pedra do Cão Sentado, with its iconic rock formation and scenic trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid summer thunderstorms
Parque Cão Sentado
Best Time
Avoid summer thunderstorms
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Nova Friburgo's natural wonder, the Pedra do Cão Sentado, with its iconic rock formation and scenic trails.
"Amazing rock formations and beautiful views, worth it!"
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Essential
Trails can be slippery and humid. Wear good hiking shoes for safety, especially on descents.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
There are no rivers or waterfalls on the trail, so stay hydrated.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Pedra do Cão Sentado
Main viewpoint
Marvel at the iconic rock formation resembling a seated dog, a natural symbol of Nova Friburgo.
Rock Formations & Caves
Throughout the park
Explore fascinating geological wonders, including large stones and accessible caves, amidst lush Atlantic Forest.
Scenic Trails
Various paths
Hike through well-marked trails offering beautiful views and a moderate challenge for nature lovers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Best Views
Trail Safety & What to Bring
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Essential
Trails can be slippery and humid. Wear good hiking shoes for safety, especially on descents.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
There are no rivers or waterfalls on the trail, so stay hydrated.
⚠️ Watch Your Step
Be alert at all times, especially on wooden stairs and handrails, and when stopping for photos.
⏰ Go Early in Summer
Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer; morning visits are recommended.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Essential
Trails can be slippery and humid. Wear good hiking shoes for safety, especially on descents.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
There are no rivers or waterfalls on the trail, so stay hydrated.
⚠️ Watch Your Step
Be alert at all times, especially on wooden stairs and handrails, and when stopping for photos.
⏰ Go Early in Summer
Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer; morning visits are recommended.
👨👩👧👦 Extra Caution for Kids/Seniors
The terrain can be challenging; supervise children and elderly visitors closely.
📅 Check Opening Days
The park is typically open Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays. 
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Parque Cão Sentado for its stunning natural beauty, unique rock formations like the iconic Pedra do Cão Sentado, and the rewarding hiking experience. However, some reviewers note that the park's maintenance could be improved, with certain areas and structures requiring more attention for safety, especially for children and the elderly.
"It's an amazing park with a particularly nature. Huge stones, caves (some of them you access, others no) tropical nature. I consider a moderate walking, no light. Going up to achieve the top of mountain to see the seated dog rock (cão sentado), or going down, because of humidity on the stones, it becomes not safe.
The maintanence of the place is not the best.
A lot of places are unsafe, it's necessary to stay alert all the time, mainly when we go down back to the recreation area.
Extremely care with kids and old people.
All the times watch your step, and stop when you want to look around or to take pics.
There is no river and waterfalls while walking, so take water on your backpack.
The entrance is 15 reais.
Take care with the wood stairs as well. Not safe. And some of their handrail are not fixed well.
Now at summer season it is common thunderstorm at afternoon. So I recommend to go there in the morning. They open at 9am.
It is written it takes around 30 minutes to go up.
Well, I took over one hour , I am not athletic. Lol"
Eva Barsi
"Awesome trail. Not too easy nor absurdly challenging. Amazing rock formations and beautiful views. worth it!"
D. Ayres
"Top"
Catarina Louback
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Organized tours often depart from Centro do Rio, with meeting points like Posto Shell Centro. If driving, the park is located on RJ 116, KM 91.2, before the first toll booth on the Friburgo/Bom Jardim road.
You can drive to Nova Friburgo via the RJ 116 highway. Public transportation options might involve buses from major cities to Nova Friburgo, followed by local transport to the park.
Information on specific parking availability is limited, but it's advisable to check with the park directly or consider tour options that include transport.
The park is located on the outskirts of Nova Friburgo, accessible via the RJ 116. The exact distance can vary depending on your starting point within the city.
Yes, several tour operators offer trips from Rio de Janeiro, often including transportation, guides, and park entrance fees.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is R$15 reais per person. It's always a good idea to confirm current pricing before your visit.
The park typically opens at 9 AM and closes its ecological walk activities at 3 PM, with overall activities ending at 5 PM. It's usually open on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays.
While advance booking details aren't always specified, it's recommended to check the park's official channels or social media for any reservation requirements, especially during peak seasons.
Information regarding specific discounts for children or seniors is not readily available. It's best to inquire directly with the park administration.
The park is generally open on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays. Weekday access might be limited or require special arrangements.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike is approximately 700 meters one way and can take around 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your fitness level and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.
The trail is considered moderately challenging. It's not light, and can become slippery and unsafe, especially when descending.
You'll find lush Atlantic Forest, impressive rock formations, and caves. The main attraction is the 'seated dog' rock. +1
Some sources mention activities like ziplining, climbing, and fishing, but the primary focus is the hiking trail to the Pedra do Cão Sentado.
Reviews suggest that the park's maintenance could be improved, with some areas and wooden structures noted as potentially unsafe.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The Pedra do Cão Sentado itself offers iconic photo opportunities. Various viewpoints along the trail and within the park also provide stunning natural scenery.
Morning light is generally best for photography, offering softer light and avoiding harsh midday sun. It also aligns with avoiding afternoon thunderstorms.
Drone usage regulations are not specified. It's advisable to check park rules or local regulations before flying a drone to avoid any issues.
Many visitors capture the main 'seated dog' rock formation. Exploring the caves and viewpoints along the trail can also yield unique photographic moments.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient for most visitors. For landscape shots, a wide-angle lens can be beneficial. Consider a tripod for low-light conditions or stable shots on uneven terrain.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Bring plenty of water and snacks, as amenities might be limited. Visiting in the morning is highly recommended, particularly during summer, to avoid potential afternoon thunderstorms and enjoy cooler temperatures.
🚶♀️ Adventure Seekers & Hikers
While the primary draw is the hike, keep an eye out for mentions of other activities like climbing or ziplining, which could add an extra thrill to your visit.
Be prepared for varying trail conditions and always prioritize safety by staying alert and hydrated. The park's natural beauty and geological features make it a compelling destination for outdoor enthusiasts. 📸 Photographers
+1 The surrounding lush Atlantic Forest and intriguing rock formations and caves provide diverse subjects. For the best light and to avoid potential summer afternoon thunderstorms, aim for morning visits. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the grandeur of the landscape and the rock formations. A tripod can be useful for stable shots on uneven terrain or in shaded areas within the caves. Be mindful of the trail conditions when setting up shots, and always prioritize safety.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Pedra do Cão Sentado
Many visitors are captivated by the sheer natural artistry of the stone. The surrounding landscape, characterized by the lush Atlantic Forest, adds to the scenic beauty. While the main formation is the highlight, the journey to it is filled with other natural wonders, including intriguing rock formations and caves that dot the park. The experience is not just about the destination but also the journey through this vibrant ecosystem.
+1Photographers will find ample opportunities to capture the grandeur of the Pedra do Cão Sentado from various angles. The best light is often found in the morning, offering a softer glow and avoiding the harsh midday sun. Remember to be patient and find your perfect vantage point to immortalize this natural wonder.
Navigating the Trails and Safety
+1However, it's crucial to be aware of the safety considerations. Reviewers have noted that the trails can become humid and slippery, particularly during descents, making sturdy footwear essential.
Given these factors, extra caution is advised for children and older individuals. It's recommended to always watch your step, especially when stopping to take photos or enjoy the views. Bringing ample water is also important, as there are no water sources like rivers or waterfalls directly on the hiking paths.
Exploring Beyond the Main Attraction
+1Beyond the hiking trails, some sources indicate the presence of other outdoor activities such as ziplining, climbing, and fishing.
These activities, if available, add an adventurous dimension to a visit, catering to those seeking more than just a scenic hike. It's advisable to inquire about the availability and operational status of these additional attractions directly with the park. The park's natural beauty is a significant draw, offering opportunities for nature observation and photography. The well-marked trails, though requiring caution, guide visitors through diverse landscapes, making the entire experience an immersion in nature.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit