Bosque da Ciência

Lonely Planet review

Occupying a 13-hectare (32-acre) plot of secondary forest within the city, the Bosque da Ciência (Forest of Science) has ageing enclosures containing animals such as giant otters and caimans, but a great many creatures roam freely about the park - in the underbrush, high in the trees, and even ambling down the paths - including monkeys, sloths, turtles, various tropical birds, pacas and anteaters.

A highlight is the manatee pool, with underwater windows. These reclusive creatures - known as peixe boi (cow fish) in Portuguese - are virtually impossible to spot in the wild, and are best viewed here after their pool is cleaned (usually Wednesday and Friday mornings). Also within the park is the Casa da Ciência, which has exhibits on subjects ranging from medicinal plants to the harmful effects of gold prospecting.