Founded in 1808, Jardim Botânico is a lush 350-acre park and UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, with over 8,000 plant species and wooded trails that lead up Corcovado Mountain to the Christ the Redeemer statue.Created as a symbol to counteract perceived “godlessness” spreading throughout Brazil, the magnificent Christ the Redeemer statue was completed in 1931 and is now one of the New 7 Wonders of the World.No visit to Rio is complete without catching a few rays—and more than a few sights—at its famous beaches, Copacabana and Ipanema. (At least one of them is reportedly “the hottest spot north of Havana”.)