Located on the coast of the southeastern corner of Rio de Janeiro, Sugarloaf Mountain (Pão de Açúcar) resides within forests, water and hills at the edge of Guanabara Bay. Rock climbers conquer the mountain using appropriate gear, but most visitors take the glass-sided cable car to the top. Originally built in 1912, the cable car transports 65 visitors per trip and offers panoramic views the entire way. Sugarloaf Mountain offers remarkable views of nearby beaches, local rain forests, adjacent hills and the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue. The lush rain forests provide a sharp contrast against the surrounding granite hills. Historians attribute the mountain’s name to the 16th-century practice of molding sugar into a cone-like shape. These “sugar loaves” were common during the peak of Brazil’s sugarcane trade. The mountain draws crowds year-round, but the best times to visit are each day early in the morning and 90 minutes before sunset. Make sure you have clear skies and bring your camera to capture Rio’s scenic beauty from 1,300 feet (396 meters) above sea level. Right beneath you is Copacabana Beach, which connects to Ipanema Beach at its southern end. To the west, enjoy views of Rio’s iconic member of the “New Seven Wonders of the World,” the Christ the Redeemer statue. Cable cars depart every 20 minutes from morning until evening. Before reaching the top, you will board two cable cars. One stops at Morro da Urca and the other stops at the peak, Pão de Açúcar. Be sure to check with the ticketing office if you visit during major holidays as cable-car trips typically close around noon on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve and close completely on Christmas and New Year’s Day. If visiting between December and March, be prepared for the cable car to close early on weekend evenings to accommodate seasonal performances. Access to Sugarloaf Mountain is from Praia Vermelha at the southern entry to Guanabara Bay. You can walk to Guanabara Bay from nearby Copacabana Beach, or use boat or bus if you are coming from farther afield.
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Sol Ipanema Hotel
Reviewed on Sep 22, 2024
Ipanema Inn
Reviewed on Sep 4, 2024
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Tours & day trips
See all 544 activitiesOpens in new tabFull Day in Rio - Christ the Redeemer by Van, Sugarloaf, City Tour & BBQ
Private & custom tours
See all 132 activitiesOpens in new tabOld Rio de Janeiro & Santa Teresa Tour with Transfer
Adventure & outdoor
See all 126 activitiesOpens in new tabRio de Janeiro: Hang Gliding Tandem Flight
Cruises & boat tours
See all 71 activitiesOpens in new tabAngra dos Reis Full-Day from Rio with Boat Ride & Lunch
Classes & workshops
See all 28 activitiesOpens in new tabRio de Janeiro: Sunset Sailing Tour
Reviews of Sugar Loaf Mountain
5/5 - Excellent
Buy the tickets online, cheaper and faster.
5/5 - Excellent
Such an amazing time, and I'm afraid of heights! The views are incredible!
5/5 - Excellent
Amazing sunset! They have a sunset bar with pretty decent cocktails. Would recommend spending at least one sunset of your trip there, you won’t regret it.
5/5 - Excellent
Great sights from top, easy to get to!
5/5 - Excellent
Better to visit in the morning
4/5 - Good
Been there, done that. What's to say? Ride two cable cars, enjoy the awesome view, and carry on.
Popular places to visit
Urca Beach
If a restful vacation is part of your travel plans, Urca Beach might be the perfect place to seek out during your trip to Rio de Janeiro.
Pista Claudio Coutinho
Stunning coastal views, wildlife spotting and access to Sugarloaf Mountain make this one of the most popular walking trails in Río.
Sugarloaf Cable Car
You can take time to visit Sugarloaf Cable Car during your travels to Rio de Janeiro. Stroll along the beautiful beaches or discover the area's mountain views.
Museu de Ciências da Terra
In this fascinating museum many thousands of artifacts provide a comprehensive overview of the geological and paleontological history of Brazil.
Forte Duque de Caxias
After visiting Forte Duque de Caxias, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Rio de Janeiro. Wander the beautiful beaches and seaside in the area.
Praia do Leme
Why not spend a carefree afternoon at Praia do Leme during your travels in Rio de Janeiro? While you're here, you can savor the top-notch restaurants.
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