BURLE MARX BUST
THE CONTRAST
STUDIO
SCULPTURE
HOUSE MUSEUM
CHURCH
LITTLE PALM TREE
ROOTS
TOTEN
CHURCH AND GARDEN
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The landscaper Burle Marx and its site - cultural heritage

(3)
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Cultural ToursArts & CultureNature Tours
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About this activity

Explore the creative vision of Burle Marx, one of Brazil's most influential landscape architects and artists, at his former residence and studio—a living museum showcasing thousands of rare tropical plants, folk art, and design pieces amid a restored 17th-century chapel. Combine this intimate cultural experience with a scenic coastal drive past Rio's most pristine beaches and the historic settlement of Pedra de Guaratiba.

Burle Marx, the multiple artist, was a collector of plants and objects of art and design, among which Brazilian folk art stands out, displayed on the site where one can visit the seventeenth-century church restored by him. The visit to the Burle Marx Site is a highly inspiring and rare opportunity to raise awareness of the importance of nature preservation as we observe one of the most important collections of tropical plants in the world. After the visit to the site, we will continue to Pedra de Guaratiba and its lush beaches. In an attempt to dominate Rio de Janeiro in the XVI century, the French chose this place to setlle down and follow by land towards the shores of Guanabara Bay. Pedra de Guaratiba keeps many stories to tell its visitors. Following the beaches of Grumari, Prainha, Macumba, Recreio, Barra da Tijuca, São Conrado, Leblon and Ipanema.

Highlights

  • ✓Walk through one of the world's most significant tropical plant collections in a working garden setting
  • ✓Tour the restored colonial-era chapel and Marx's personal art and design collection
  • ✓Learn about sustainable landscape design and Brazilian botanical heritage
  • ✓Discover Pedra de Guaratiba's French colonial history and scenic coastal cliffs
  • ✓Drive the West Zone beach circuit: Grumari, Prainha, Macumba, Recreio, Barra da Tijuca, and beyond

Insider tips

  • ★The site feels like a private treasure—arrive early to avoid crowds and enjoy the gardens in softer morning light
  • ★Bring a camera with good macro capabilities; the rare plant specimens and folk art details reward close-up photography
  • ★Ask the guide about Marx's philosophy on integrating modernism with nature—it's central to understanding Brazilian design history

Good to know

  • •Wear comfortable walking shoes; the 5-hour tour involves uneven garden paths and significant walking
  • •Bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen, water) for both the botanical garden and beach viewing sections
  • •The site is accessed via a guided tour only; self-exploration of the house and gardens is not permitted
  • •Photography may be restricted in certain interior spaces—confirm with your guide upon arrival

Who it's for

Art and design enthusiasts seeking authentic cultural immersion beyond mainstream Rio attractionsBotanists, gardeners, and nature lovers interested in tropical horticulture and conservationArchitecture and landscape design professionals researching modernist Brazilian practiceCouples and small groups looking for an off-the-beaten-path, intellectually engaging experience

Best time to visit

Visit in the dry season (May–September) for the most comfortable weather and clearest coastal views. Early morning tours (before 10 AM) offer the best light for the gardens and fewer visitors.

Frequently asked questions

Available
From€110
per person