Sugarloaf Mountain is one of the postcards of Rio de Janeiro and Brazil around the world and an unmissable attraction for people of all ages and tastes who visit the city. Located in the Urca district, on the shores of Guanabara Bay, the hill named Sugarloaf Mountain together with the Morro da Urca hill offers one of the most beautiful views of the city and is part of the UNESCO heritage in the city.
History of the Sugar Loaf Cable Car
In 1912, the first Brazilian cable car was inaugurated on the site. The cable car traveled 538 meters between Praia Vermelha and Morro da Urca. A year later, a second stretch was inaugurated, between Morro da Urca and Pão de Açúcar, which is 396 meters high. Today, more than 100 years after the beginning of its operations, the cable cars have been modernized and continue to follow the same route. Each cable car has a capacity for up to 65 passengers and the vehicle speed is smooth during the ride, ideal for calmly enjoying the view.
From the top of the hills, it is possible to admire a 360 degree view of Rio de Janeiro. On open days, you can see from Copacabana and Ipanema to Cristo Redentor, Rio﹣Niterói Bridge and Pedra da Gávea. The late afternoon in the hills is especially beautiful. Many people choose to visit the site at this time, so they watch the nightfall and then the city’s buildings light up. The structure on both hills is very good, with shops, snack bars, benches to rest, areas for private events and even music shows. The prices of products on the top of the hill are not low, be aware of this fact.
Tickets for the Sugarloaf cable car
To visit Sugarloaf Mountain you must first go to the Urca district, where the tour takes place – you can reach the district by bus, Uber or taxi – there is no subway nearby! The complete ride on the cable car, that is, leaving Praia Vermelha/Urca, taking the first cable car to Morro da Urca, and then the second cable car that goes to Sugarloaf Mountain (and then taking the opposite way back)
At the attraction’s in-person ticket office, in Urca/Praia Vermelha, the ticket may cost a little more. If you want to save, buy your ticket online. Buying tickets in advance guarantees fewer lines, which occur mainly during high season, holidays and holidays. And if you want agility in order not to face lines, there is also the option of buying a ticket with quick access, with preferential entry and use of a VIP room.
Residents of the city of Rio de Janeiro and Greater Rio pay a promotional amount, the so-called Bilhete Carioca, you just need to prove your residence through a proof of address. Check here for more information.
Other tours on Sugarloaf Mountain
In addition to the traditional visit to Sugarloaf Mountain and the cable car, the company that manages the site offers other activities related to the site, including a Historical Tour, which focuses on data from the history and curiosities of the first cable car in Brazil and the Backstage Tour, which shows technical details of how the attraction works. Access the Cable Car website to see the different tickets for the attraction.
Riding the Sugar Loaf cable car for free
Another way to visit the attraction for little (or nothing) is to climb Morro da Urca on a trail that leads to the top of the hill. The trail is not difficult, but it is quite steep, so it is only recommended for people who feel able to do the exercise. Plan to climb the trail and reach the top of Morro da Urca while there is daylight and bring water to hydrate on the way. Important information is that, arriving at the top of Morro da Urca on the trail, you can get off by cable car starting at 7:30 pm for free. This time, of course, can vary according to the rules of the company that manages the place.
Tip: if you are close by, don’t miss Praia Vermelha, which is close to the ascent to Sugarloaf Mountain. It’s a small but cozy beach. The view is beautiful and at one end you can take a walk around the Sugarloaf Mountain, just find out about the Cláudio Coutinho track. It’s easy to find and you’ll be amazed by the unexplored beauty of the place.
3-4 hours
Daily
Private Tour
Eng-Spa-Por
THIS EXPERIENCE INCLUDES
Ticket for Sugar Loaf Maountain
Credential guide in English, Spanish or Portugues
Private transfer to and from your hotel
Covid-19 biosafety protocol
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