Visit the Prestigious Sugarloaf
Ascent is made in two stages: first to the top of Urca Hill, travelling from Praia Vermelha to a height of 220 meters above sea level and then the cable car goes all the way to the top of Sugar Loaf Mountain, for a breathtaking 360 degree view of Rio de Janeiro, Guanabara Bay, the city of Niteroi and the blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean.
Rio Tips!
Sugarloaf Mountain is a peak that rises 396 meters high and presents a bird’s eye view of Rio de Janeiro from the mouth of Guanabara Bay. More than a million tourists visit Sugarloaf every year to enjoy a breathtaking view of surrounding beaches, mountains and forests.
Tickets are sold at the station located at Praia Vermelha (Red Beach). The cable car service runs between 8 am and 9 pm each 20 minutes but note that you can buy your ticket only till 7.50 pm!
At this base-station you will find few souvenirs stores and you also can buy them at the Urca Mountain (there is a big Havaianas’store, Bars where you can take a Caipirinha) and the same at Sugar Loaf!
Remember that the best time to visit the Sugar Loaf is the time of sunset...It is a incredible view!!
Urca Mountain – The First Mountain
The first leg of the trip is from Avenida Pasteur in Praia Vermelha, the Red Beach District, which takes you to the top of Urca Mountain. The one kilometer ride gives you the first aerial view of Copacabana, the Christ statue, Niteroi Bridge and Guanabara Bay.
There are some gift shops, restaurants and a small theater with informational videos. Don’t forget to carry your camera to record some of the most spectacular views of the region. There is a number of trials through the thick vegetation and natural observation posts put up at different heights.
Pão de Açúcar – A View from the Top
The second cable car takes you from Urca to the top of Sugarloaf with an amazing 360-degree view of the region. You can sit down and enjoy the view from one of the fast-food shops around the area. Alternatively, you can follow a trail around the top of the hill.
Be there at sunset and you will be treated to the most spectacular scenery on the planet. Undoubtedly, the overlooks on Sugarloaf provide some jaw-dropping views of the ocean and the city as well. Those sensitive to heights better beware.
Once you are back on solid ground at the bottom, spend time walking around Praia Vermelha beach and the residential area which has an eclectic mix of art-deco and contemporary houses with beautifully landscaped gardens.
Afterwards why not take a cab or walk towards the Bar Urca, situated on the shores of Guanabara Bay on one of the most beautiful postcards of the world - overlooking the Christ and the entrance to historic São João Fort, a region favored by the tranquility and safety.
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