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Jardim Botânico was built around the botanical gardens – the Imperial Garden

Jardim Botânico is a residential neighborhood built around the botanical gardens that houses plants like nutmeg, pepper and cinnamon that were imported from the West Indies. Unlike the other neighborhoods, the houses here are large and detached, making it a favorite residential area for many Brazilian celebrities. The headquarters of Rede Globo, a nationwide television network is also located here. The neighborhood is near the Tijuca Forest. The carnival bloco of “Suvaco do Cristo” also known as “armpit of Christ” parades annually through the streets of Jardim Botanico as it lies underneath the armpit of the Christ the Redeemer statue. The most well-known symbol of the park are the royal palms, some dating back to the period of Dom João VI! There’s much more to see, though.

History

Jardim Botânico do Rio de Janeiro was founded by Dom João VI on June 13, 1808. It is one of the most beautiful tropical gardens of the world. In 1937, it was listed as part of the Brazilian Historical Heritage and in 1992, UNESCO granted it the status of a biosphere reserve. Famous visitors to Jardim include Einstein and Queen Elizabeth.

Geography

Jardim Botanico lies to the north of Ipanema and Leblon and east of Gavea. Jardim Botânico is located in the affluent “Zona Sul” (South Zone) of Rio de Janeiro.

Highlights

The garden has several special areas featuring plants from specific regions of Brazil and even includes a Japanese garden. The Victoria-Regis Float on Frei Leandro pond is a popular attraction in the park. Rubber, cocoa, abricó-de-macaco trees are just some of the species that thrive at the park. A visit to the greenhouse will give you the opportunity to admire beautiful flowers including bromeliads and orchids. There are various sculptures by famous artists like Mestre Valentim and fountains in the park. The central fountain which is surrounded by palm trees was actually designed in London and brought to the park in 1905.

Be sure to add a visit to the botanical gardens on your travel itinerary. If you visit Rio during the Carnival, you can be part of the festivities and then move on to enjoy some peace and tranquility at the park.

Besides the Botanical Garden, another point of attraction is the Lage Park which is another nature reserve, the Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas is very close.

Many bars and restaurants has been successfully installed in Jardim Botânico , transforming the neighborhood into gastronomic center. Near Rua Pacheco Leão, there is a lot of movement at night due to restaurants and bars.

In addition to the headquarters of the Brazilian Jockey Club Sports, located in the district is also the Brazilian Equestrian Society, the Marine Vasco da Gama headquarters, the Military Club of Rio de Janeiro and  the headquarters of the Rio de Janeiro Naval Club Sports.