Nova Friburgo combines beautiful Brazilian landscapes with European flair. The city is set in the Serra do Mar mountains and is a great place to satisfy your appetite for adventure. Hiking, white-water rafting and hang gliding are just some of the exhilarating outdoor activities on offer.
Things to do in Nova Friburgo
Walk around the historic city centre and admire handsome buildings like Anchieta College. It was built in the 19th century and is one of many European-style buildings in the city. Chapel of Santo Antonio overlooks Praça do Suspiro Square. Cafes and restaurants spill onto the square and serve strong Brazilian coffee and “feijoada” black bean stew.
Ride the Teleférico cable car up Morro da Cruz and unlock panoramic views over the city and surrounding mountains. At more than 1.4 kilometres in length, it’s one of the longest cable cars in Brazil. The views are incredible and stretch for several kilometres in all directions.
Work up a sweat on the six-kilometre hike up Pico da Caledônia. The trail starts in the Alto do Cascatinha neighbourhood and winds up to the summit of the 2,310-metre-tall mountain. Enjoy the sweeping views and watch hang gliders launch themselves off the cliffs. Pedra do Cão Sentado is another popular hike. Starting in Parque Cão Sentado, it should take you around 30 minutes to reach the top of the dog-shaped rock formation.
Chase waterfalls and explore jungle-covered trails in Juarez Frotté Municipal Park. Talk to local tour operators about white-water rafting adventures along nearby rivers. You can also scale rugged cliffs on rock climbing tours.
Getting around Nova Friburgo
Parts of Nova Friburgo are pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot. In other areas, it’s better to hail a taxi. Tom Jobim International Airport in Rio de Janeiro is a 2.5-hour drive away.