Sugar Loaf Hiking - Visit Rio’s Best Attraction Hiking & Climbing
Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Experience Rio de Janeiro’s most iconic attraction in a unique and adventurous way.
Join a guided hike through the lush Atlantic Forest as you learn about the city’s rich history and enjoy a fun, beginner-friendly rock scramble to reach the summit of Sugarloaf Mountain.
From the top, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking 360-degree view of Rio de Janeiro. To begin the descent, you’ll take the famous Sugarloaf cable car down to the first hill — and it’s included in the price of the tour.
This is without a doubt the most classic hiking experience in Rio. If you're looking for more than a simple walking trail and prefer reaching the summit under your own power instead of taking the cable cars like a typical tourist, this is the tour for you.
Our friendly, professional guides will support you every step of the way and provide all necessary equipment.
Hiking Sugarloaf Mountain will definitely be a highlight of your trip!
Available options
Sugar Loaf Hiking - Visit Rio de Janeiro’s Best Attraction Hiking and Climbing
Duration: 4 hours: Longer than a easy hike with dramatic elevation gains. Ideal for Intermediate to experienced hikers!<br/>Climb to the Summit: This is fore sure the most classic hike in Rio. Enjoy an easy level rock climb to reach the summit of Sugar Loaf.
What's included
Accredited climbing guide
Climbing Equipment
Detailed itinerary
1
Pista Claudio Coutinho, also known as Claudio Coutinho Trail, is a scenic walking trail located in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. It runs along the base of the iconic Sugarloaf Mountain (Pão de Açúcar) and is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
Along the way, you'll find viewpoints with benches where you can stop, rest, and take in the stunning vistas. The view of the Sugarloaf Mountain from the trail is particularly impressive, as you can observe its imposing granite peak rising sharply above the city.
While walking on the Pista Claudio Coutinho, you may encounter small monkeys, known as marmosets or saguis, which are common in the area.
2
Hiking and climbing Sugarloaf Mountain (Pão de Açúcar) in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, is a thrilling adventure that offers breathtaking views of the city and its surroundings. Sugarloaf Mountain is an iconic landmark, characterized by its distinct shape and imposing granite cliffs, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and tourists.
Hiking to the summit of Sugarloaf Mountain involves a combination of walking and climbing.
Whether you choose to hike or climb Sugarloaf Mountain, the experience is a unique opportunity to connect with nature, challenge yourself physically, and witness some of the most breathtaking views in Rio de Janeiro.
3
From the summit of Sugarloaf, you are elevated 396 meters above the city, offering a sweeping 360-degree view that stretches across the vibrant metropolis and beyond. Here's what you can expect to see:
Guanabara Bay: The view overlooks the vast expanse of Guanabara Bay, with its tranquil waters dotted with islands and boats.
City Skyline: Rio de Janeiro's city skyline is on full display from Sugarloaf. You can see the towering buildings of downtown.
Copacabana Beach: To the south, you can feast your eyes on the iconic Copacabana Beach, stretching along the coastline with its golden sands and blue waters.
Ipanema Beach: You'll have a clear view of Ipanema Beach, another beloved and beautiful beach in Rio de Janeiro.
Christ the Redeemer: If you look inland, you can spot the magnificent Cristo Redentor (Christ the Redeemer) statue atop Corcovado Mountain.
Tijuca Forest: Surrounding the city, you'll see the lush greenery of the Tijuca Forest, the world's largest urban forest.
4
The cable car ride to Sugarloaf Mountain is a popular and unique attraction in Rio de Janeiro, offering stunning views of the city and the surrounding landscape. It consists of a two-stage journey:
First Stage: The cable car takes visitors from the base station to the top of Morro da Urca (Urca Hill), the lower hill that precedes Sugarloaf Mountain. At Morro da Urca, visitors can already enjoy breathtaking views of Guanabara Bay and parts of the city.
5
Stop 5
Morro da Urca, or Urca Hill, is a beautiful hill located in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. It is one of the two hills that make up the iconic Sugarloaf Mountain (Pão de Açúcar). Morro da Urca is an important attraction and serves as the first stage of the cable car ride that takes visitors to the summit of Sugarloaf Mountain.
6
The Trilha do Morro da Urca, or Morro da Urca Trail, is a hiking route that goes down from the top of Morro da Urca in Rio de Janeiro.
What's not included
Food and drinks are not included
Available languages
Guide guide
PT
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
1 reviews
5★
1
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
10 reviews
5★
10
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness
Meeting point
The meeting point of the activity is in front of the Santander Bank. The bank is located below the Restaurant (Círculo Militar). The meeting point is 2 minutes walk from the Sugar Loaf cable car station.
Important notes
The meeting point of the activity is in front of the Santander Bank. The bank is located below the Restaurant (Círculo Militar). The meeting point is 2 minutes walk from the Sugar Loaf cable car station.
PLEASE, PRINT THIS MAP OR KEEP THE PICTURE IN YOUR MOBILE.
RIO NATURAL ECOTOURISM
About Rio de Janeiro
Rio de Janeiro, known as the 'Marvelous City,' is famous for its natural settings, Carnival, samba, bossa nova, and Balneario beaches such as Copacabana and Ipanema. It's a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, including the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue and Sugarloaf Mountain.
Top Attractions
Christ the Redeemer
One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, this iconic statue offers breathtaking views of Rio de Janeiro.
Historical/Religious
2-3 hours
R$84 (including train ticket)
Sugarloaf Mountain
A famous peak offering stunning views of Rio de Janeiro and its beaches.
Nature
2-3 hours
R$88 (round-trip cable car)
Copacabana Beach
One of the most famous beaches in the world, known for its vibrant atmosphere and beautiful sunsets.
Beach
Half day or full day
Free
Tijuca National Park
The world's largest urban forest, offering hiking trails, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.
Nature
Half day or full day
Free (some attractions may have fees)
Santa Teresa
A historic and bohemian neighborhood known for its cobblestone streets, art galleries, and scenic views.
Cultural
Half day
Free to explore
Must-Try Local Dishes
Feijoada
A hearty stew made with black beans and various cuts of pork, often served with rice, collard greens, and orange slices.
Dinner
Contains pork, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Pão de Queijo
Cheese bread made with tapioca flour, giving it a unique texture and flavor.
Snack
Vegetarian, but contains dairy.
Moqueca
A traditional fish stew cooked in coconut milk and dendê oil, with various seafood and vegetables.
Dinner
Can be made vegetarian or vegan with vegetable broth and tofu.
Açaí
A thick, creamy fruit pulp from the açaí palm, often served with granola and condensed milk.
Dessert/Drink
Can be made vegan with plant-based milk.
Popular Activities
Hiking in Tijuca National Park
Surfing in Arpoador
Paragliding in Pedra Bonita
Beach lounging in Ipanema
Spa treatments in Copacabana
Yoga in Botafogo
Visiting museums in Centro
Attending a samba show
Best Time to Visit
December to March
This is the peak tourist season with warm weather and the famous Carnival in February/March. Expect crowded beaches and higher prices.
25-30°C
77-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Portuguese
- Widely spoken: English (limited)
- English: Limited
Currency
Brazilian Real (BRL)
Time Zone
GMT-3 (Brasília Time)
Electricity
110V/220VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
Rio de Janeiro is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and violence can occur. Exercise caution, especially in less touristy areas and at night.
Important Precautions:
- • Avoid walking alone at night in unsafe areas
- • Use common sense and stay alert to your surroundings
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
Getting there
By air
- Rio de Janeiro-Galeão International Airport • 20 km (12 miles) from city center
- Santos Dumont Airport • 12 km (7.5 miles) from city center
By train
Central do Brasil
By bus
Rodoviária Novo Rio, Terminal Rodoviário da Gavea
Getting around
Public transport
Efficient and air-conditioned, the metro is a great way to avoid traffic.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, 99 Taxis
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Copacabana
Ipanema
Santa Teresa
Lapa
Botafogo
Day trips
Petrópolis
65 km (40 miles) • Full day
A charming colonial town in the mountains, known for its historic architecture and cool climate.
Paraty
170 km (105 miles) • Full day or overnight
A historic coastal town with cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and beautiful beaches.
Búzios
170 km (105 miles) • Full day or overnight
A picturesque beach town known for its stunning beaches, clear waters, and vibrant nightlife.
Festivals
Carnival • February/March (dates vary)
Rio Carnival Samba Parade • February/March (dates vary)
New Year's Eve (Réveillon) • December 31
Pro tips
- Visit Christ the Redeemer early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the best views
- Take a helicopter tour for a unique perspective of the city
- Explore the less touristy neighborhoods like Santa Teresa and Botafogo for a more authentic experience
- Try local street food like pão de queijo and coxinha for a taste of Brazilian flavors
- Learn some basic Portuguese phrases to enhance your interactions with locals
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
