Sugarloaf Mountain (Pao de Açúcar)

The basics

As one of Rio’s most popular and enduring attractions, Sugarloaf Mountain deserves a spot on every itinerary, especially for first-time visitors. A two-stage cable car takes riders to the summit high above the city, with the first ascending 722 feet (220 meters) to Morro da Urca, where it’s possible to grab a snack as you overlook Guanabara Bay or hop on a helicopter tour. The second cable car ascends to the top, an experience included in most Rio sightseeing tours that also stop at attractions such as Corcovado Mountain, Santa Teresa’s art district, Copacabana Beach, Sambadrome, and Maracanã Stadium. Visitors pressed for time can pre-book skip-the-line tickets with priority access to the cable car.

Things to know before you go

• Sugarloaf Mountain is a must-see for first-time visitors to Rio de Janeiro.

• Choose between skip-the-line Sugarloaf Mountain (Pao de Acucar) tickets and small-group or private tours of the mountain.

• Kiosks at the top of the mountain serve snacks, sodas, ice cream, and caipirinhas.

• Remember to bring sunglasses and a hat, as it may be bright at the top of the mountain.

How to get there

Sugarloaf Mountain is a stop on almost every city tour, and most travelers get to the top by taking a cable car ride. Those with energy to burn can make the relatively easy hike up Urca Hill from the ground station to Morro da Urca (30 to 40 minutes), then ride the second cable car to the top. Buses 511 and 512 stop at the ground station on Avenida Pasteur.

When to get there

Weekend afternoons tend to be the most crowded at Sugarloaf Mountain, with the longest cable car lines and the biggest crowds at the top. To avoid the lines and heat, plan for a morning tour. For one of the most impressive views the city has to offer, visit on a clear day just before sunset.

An adventurous ascent

Rock climbers from around the globe come to Rio for a chance to scale Sugarloaf Mountain, where 40 routes of varying difficulty lead to the top. Guided climbing tours outfit participants with all gear and equipment necessary to make the ascent, with no previous experience required.

Ways to explore

As one of Rio’s most photographed natural wonders, Sugarloaf Mountain deserves a spot on every itinerary, especially for first-time visitors. A two-stage cable car takes visitors to the summit, starting from Vermelha Beach Station. Stop at Urca Hill, where you can grab a drink with a view over Guanabara Bay or hop on a helicopter tour, before climbing up to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain.

Prebook skip-the-line cable car tickets and enjoy full access to Bondinho Park, which encompasses both peaks and multiple viewpoints. Or, choose from a wide variety of Rio sightseeing tours and combine Sugarloaf Mountain with other top attractions.

Accessibility

The cable car and viewpoints are accessible for wheelchairs and people with limited mobility; a free wheelchair is available at each station.

Age limits

Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult; reduced-rate tickets are available for children and young people under 21; children under 3 travel for free.

What to pack

Ticket or e-ticket, reusable water bottle, camera, wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen, sunglasses

What to wear

Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, light jacket or scarf (it can be breezy on the mountaintop)

Not allowed

Drones, skateboards, roller skates, scooters, pets (except assistance dogs), swimsuits/beach wear

Amenities

Restrooms, café

Address 

Sugarloaf Mountain is located along the coast of Rio de Janeiro, about 7.5 miles (12 kilometers) south of the Centro neighborhood. The only way to reach the top is by cable car, but it’s possible to hike up to Urca Hill from the bottom station.

Driving

From Rio’s Centro district, it’s about a 25-minute drive, passing through the Santa Barbara Tunnel. Navigating Rio’s traffic is a feat best left to the locals, so opt for a taxi or rideshare instead.

Public transportation

To reach the cable car station by public transport, take bus 107 from Rio Centro or bus 518 or 519 from Copacabana.

Best times to visit

The cable car usually opens at 8:30am, but most day-trippers don’t arrive until after 10am, so make an early start to beat the crowds. The most magical time to visit is at sunset, but get in line early as it’s one of the busiest times of day.

Best days to visit

Weekend afternoons tend to be the most crowded at Sugarloaf Mountain, with the longest cable car lines and the biggest crowds at the top. If you can be flexible with dates, it’s a good idea to check the weather forecast—clear skies always afford the best views.

Best months to visit

The dry season (May through September) offers the best chance of good weather and high visibility. It’s also the best time for hiking and rock climbing at Sugar Loaf Mountain.

Special events

Look out for special sunrise or moonlight tours, which offer a rare opportunity to experience the twilight hours from the mountaintop, as well as sunset DJ nights on select evenings.