Rio Botanical Garden reopens area for multi-sensory experiences

Designed to provide closer contact with plants, the Rio de Janeiro Botanical Garden's Sensory Garden underwent renovations and was reopened to the public this Friday (14 June). With activities that provide multi-sensory experiences, the space is designed to welcome not only people with disabilities, but a diverse public who feel included and are looking for a place to strengthen their connection with plants, activating memories and sensations. In addition, the proposal is to sensitize visitors to inclusion and accessibility.

With plants that are resistant to touch, large raised beds that allow wheelchair users and people with walking difficulties to move around freely, tactile flooring and handrails, the space has also been given new accessible signs with information about the species.

Visits are guided by students from the João Carlos Silva Social and Environmental Responsibility Center (CRS), and one of the main attractions is the blindfolded guided tour, which can be booked in advance at crs@jbrj.gov.br. The guided tour is free and there is only a charge to enter the arboretum. Every day, CRS students are present in the Sensory Garden for basic guidance on the space.

Opened in 1995 and closed to visitors last year, the space has gained 23 new plant species. Today, the Sensory Garden has 97 species with different textures, shapes, sizes, scents and colors. The plants are grouped according to the sensory stimuli they promote. Orchids, bromeliads, succulents, araceae, jambu, wild coriander, honeysuckle, watermelon peperomia, alocasia, lavender, basil, rosemary, sage, thyme, oregano and many other species can be freely touched.

Rua Jardim Botânico, 1008
Tel: (21) 3874-1808
Admission to the Arboretum
Visitors living in the Rio de Janeiro Metropolitan Area: R$ 18,00
Visitors living in Brazil: R$ 29,00
Foreign visitors from Mercosur: R$ 55,00
Foreign visitors: R$ 73.00

Children up to 5 years old are free. Students, people with disabilities and people over 60 are entitled to half-price tickets on presentation of a supporting document.
Payment at the box office in cash only. Tickets online at jbrj.eleventickets.com with pix or credit card.