Sugarloaf Mountain Hike: Explore Rock Climbing and Scenic Views in Rio de Janeiro
5.0
73 Ratings
Urca
Desire to experience rock climbing in Rio de Janeiro as you ascend Sugarloaf Mountain? The Costao Route is a conducted tour inviting you for hiking, scrambling, and a short climbing span. Reach the summit to relish the well-known all-encompassing vista after participating in one of Rio’s top-rated outdoor exploits.
Duration:
4 hours
Cancellation:
1 day
learn more
Highlights
- Sugarloaf Mountain - During this excursion we will hike to the summit of Rio de Janeiro’s famous Sugarloaf Mountain. In 1817, British female adventurer, Henrietta Carstairs, made the first ascent up the Costão Route. Since then, it has been one of the most exciting adventures in town, which is still unknown by a large part of Rio’s population.
The most part of the hike is an ascent up the rocky steep mountain East Face. Mid way through there is a fun 15 meters / 50 feet roped rock climb. Don’t worry, our rock climbing guides will provide all the safety equipment to enjoy this section with ease.
At the summit you will enjoy the city’s best views: observe famous destinations such as Christ the Redeemer Statue, Copacabana Beach, Tijuca Forest and it’s mountains, Rio’s twin city Niterói and more.
To descent ride the famous cable car down (ticket included) to it’s first stop (Morro da Urca). From there an easy and relaxed trail of 30 minutes takes us back to the Red Beach.
What's Included
- First aid kit available for safety
- Scenic cable car descent to Morro da Urca
- Provision of all necessary safety equipment
- Guidance from a trilingual rock climbing instructor (English, Spanish, Portuguese)
What's Not Included
- Food, drinks and extra costs
- Pick up and drop off
Additional Information
- Pregnant women and anyone with back or neck pain, heart problems or other serious medical complaints are not allowed to participate
- Adult pricing applies to all passengers
- Refunds will not be issued if tour/activity is missed due to your late arrival (5 min. of tolerance)
- No sandals; sport or hiking shoes only. If you have climbing shoes, feel free to bring it (not mandatory).
- Tour duration may vary depending on group size, week day, etc.
- Minimum age is 10 years; minors must be accompanied by an adult
- All guides are experienced and licensed for rock climbing. All safety equipment provided is UIAA certified
- Itaway Ecotours shall not be responsible for any kind of loss, accident, incident, sickness or injury. It is advisable that the traveler should avail a travel insurance as there can be chances of potential risks and hazards. Also, by booking this tour the traveler declares that him/her and/or his/her group is/are mentally and physically able to participate
- Recommended (individually): bring a a bagpack, light clothes, windbreaker / rainjacket, 2L of water, snacks, sunglasses, bug repellent, sunblock, plastic bag for garbage, extra money and your camera!
- Not recommended for individuals who are scared of heights.
Location
Praça Gen. Tibúrcio, 75
Praça General Tibúrcio
In front of the monument in the middle of General Tibúrcio square (15 minutes car ride from Copacabana).
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Customer Ratings
5.0
(73 Ratings)
5 stars
4 stars
3 stars
2 stars
1 star
B5986vnfranckl
Apr 12, 2024
Pao do Asucar - Sugar Loaf Trail...Magnificent climbing hike, an extraordinary view
A friendly and excellent guide Victor
I highly recommend this hike
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Flyer52578329184
Apr 7, 2024
Amazing climbing of the sugarloaf (trekking+climbing) - Super cool experience and wonderful Way to discover the famous sugarloaf from an untouristic side ! We highly recommend the climbing with Victor (amazing guide) !
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Brian3912
Feb 4, 2024
Worth the effort - This was a hike, rock scramble and rock climb. It tested our abilities but we had a great guide with Adilio. We were glad that we did it.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Vincent_c
Oct 22, 2023
Like to hike? A must do in Rio! - We recently embarked on a transformative journey up Sugarloaf Mountain, guided by the incomparable GiGi. This challenging hike is definitely not for the faint of heart; it demands grit, stamina, and a sense of adventure. But oh, what rewards await at the summit! The views are breathtaking, and the sense of accomplishment is unparalleled.
GiGi was a phenomenal guide—knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and genuinely committed to ensuring everyone had an extraordinary experience. Her passion for the outdoors was infectious and only added to the hike’s allure.
Our daughters, ages 9 and 12, were invigorated by the adventure, each step serving as a lesson in resilience and the beauty of nature. This experience has left an indelible mark on our family, creating memories we will cherish for years to come.
For those willing to push their boundaries and embrace the challenge, this hike offers a fulfilling and unforgettable experience. It’s more than just a trek; it’s a journey of discovery and a testament to human spirit. Five stars simply don’t do it justice.
Review provided by Viator
Mhorton111
Aug 26, 2023
Guide was great! Only for the fit and brave! - Our guide Victor was great! Everything was well explained, we felt very safe and he had brilliant English! The views were amazing, it was truly a once in a lifetime opportunity. Warning strong level of fitness required and not for those with a fear of heights.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
449rickh
Jul 19, 2023
Climbing beats riding! - This was an incredible experience. It was a real challenge for me. What a way to live in Rio, vs taking the gondola! Great climb, best part was when roped up. Guide GG was perfect. What wild natural areas, what views!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Maximilianb706
Jun 1, 2023
Unique and rewarding experience - Quite difficult and maybe a bit intimidating (especially on the steeper rock faces) but extremely rewarding. This was the most satisfying activity we had in our 3 weeks in Brazil and our guide Paulo was wonderful. He made sure we finished our hike safely and in good time. He was also very motivating even when I almost threw up hahaha.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Antoinedussaux
Feb 28, 2023
Incredible and definitely worth it - Hiking the Pao de acucar this way is just amazing, you’ll meet monkeys, birds, and the whole hike is absolutely beautiful. On top of that, Lucas and Fabio were so so good vibes!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Elyseg2015
Mar 7, 2022
Great Views and Feeling Accomplished! - The hike and climb to the top of Pao de Azucar was challenging but totally doable and left us with a great feeling of accomplishment. The views were incredible. One of us had no outdoor climbing experience and we felt completely safe. Our guide, Didi, was a really talented climber and very encouraging. This was one of the highlights of our trip. Highly recommend to anyone who wants a bit of adventure - and likes heights :)
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Manoelpedrol
Jan 23, 2022
Great times at the sugar loaf - Amazing hike! Our guide was incredibly cool. And besides been a really good climber he was very professional and on time.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
