Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas is a lagoon surrounded by hills, between Ipanema, Leblon, Gávea and Jardim Botânico. Along its shore, locals and visitors walk, run or cycle, with Christ the Redeemer up above. You don't need to do the full loop: choose how far you want to walk and pair it with something nearby.
At a glance
- What it is: a route for walking or cycling around the lagoon, about 8 km long according to Riotur ↗.
- When: early in the morning or at sunset. Riotur notes it gets busiest in the late afternoon.
- Breaks: there are kiosks along the shore for coconut water.
- Free: walking around the Lagoa costs nothing. Bike sharing does cost money.
- In the heat: in summer, avoid midday and bring water.
Two ways to do it
A short stretch
If you're short on time or traveling with kids, walk just one section and come back the same way or head out to the nearest neighborhood. The side facing Ipanema and Leblon is convenient if you're staying in Zona Sul; the Jardim Botânico side lets you continue to the Jardim Botânico or Parque Lage.
The full loop
The roughly 8 km loop is comfortable by bike. If you don't have one, Rio has a bike-sharing system; we explain how to use it as a tourist in Bike Itaú in Rio. On foot it's a long walk: bring water and sunscreen, and choose a time without strong sun.
What to do at the Lagoa
According to Riotur, besides walking and cycling, people row and canoe on the Lagoa, and many come for a picnic or to relax. The kiosks along the shore are the place for a coconut-water break. Riotur also mentions events and festivals throughout the year: check its calendar if you want to catch one.
What to pair it with
- With Ipanema: walk the Lagoa in the morning and continue to the beach. Ideas in the Ipanema guide.
- With the Jardim Botânico: a full green day, as we suggest in Rio with kids.
- With the sunset: if you stay into the afternoon, see other options in sunsets in Rio.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the loop?
Riotur describes a route of about 8 km. How long it takes depends on your pace and on whether you walk or cycle.
Can I go at night?
If you go at sunset, plan your way back before dark and avoid empty stretches. See the tips in safety in Rio.
Is it accessible?
It goes around a lagoon and has no big climbs, but we couldn't verify the condition of every stretch. If you have reduced mobility, see what to check before you go.
Sources: Riotur: Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas ↗, accessed October 27, 2026.