Finding beautiful nature is one of my favorite parts of traveling. Whenever I get to a new city, I always head straight for the parks. Today we took a four-hour stroll to visit the expansive Rio botanical gardens.

A spiderweb of paths crossed all over the gardens. The air felt clean and tranquil.

After all of the coatis in Iguazu, I’ve been on my toes. Luckily, no pilfering niflers were about. However, we did meet some monkey friends.

A few waterfalls were sprinkled throughout the garden. I’m always pleased to come across a good water feature.

A water feature of a different sort!

We also found an interesting stone structure that vaguely reminded me of the Inca ruins back in Peru.

• 

• 

We also found a more modern structure. I definitely wouldn’t be opposed to spending a few hours lounging in a gazebo. It was most peaceful.

Eventually, we made our way through a series of arches and found the exit.

Our walk continued back to the hotel where we saw our final Rio sunset. Not to worry Rio, I’ll be back.

As a final note, later at the hotel there was a rare sighting of an exotic animal having a very difficult time consuming a mango it bought earlier at the supermarket.