The unmistakable conical silhouette of Sugarloaf Mountain, or Pão de Açúcar, rises up from the mouth of the Guanabara Bay, on the south-eastern corner of Rio de Janeiro. The origins of its name lie in Brazil’s long history in the sugar cane trade, with the shape of this mountain resembling a block of refined sugar. At 396 metres high, the panoramic views from its peak draw crowds of visitors every day.
Climb into one of the glass-sided cable cars to be transported to the summit. Although originally opened in 1912, the cars have been completely modernised, and are now designed to give you an unobstructed view as you ascend. You’ll need to change cars halfway up at the Morro da Urca peak, but the journey only takes 3 minutes for each section, and you’ll have amazing photo opportunities even before you climb out at the top. Just don’t try and emulate James Bond from the 1979 film Moonraker. Although he emerged unscathed from his battle on the top of this cable car, it is highly recommended that you remain inside at all times!
From the top, you’ll be able to look across to the other famous peak, the Corcovado, with the world-famous statue of Christ the Redeemer, or Cristo Redentor, towering at its summit. Rio’s two most famous beaches, Ipanema and Copacabana, are both clearly visible. Haze and mist can cloud the view on occasions, so it is definitely worth waiting for a clear day, and don’t forget to pack your camera. To avoid the crowds, it is best to arrive early in the day. Alternatively, it is worth making the trip at the end of the afternoon, in time to catch the breathtakingly beautiful sunset.
For experienced rock-climbers, there are also many tried-and-tested routes to the summit of Sugarloaf Mountain. In fact, if you also include the neighbouring Morro da Urca and Morro da Babilônia, there are over 270 different routes to tackle. It goes without saying that this should only be attempted with correct equipment and thorough knowledge of the sport.
Sugarloaf Mountain is accessed via Praia Vermelha, walking distance from Copacabana Beach. Cable cars depart every 20 minutes from morning until evening however, do check with the ticket office as the service may stop early on public holidays. Cable cars do not run on Christmas Day or New Year’s Day.
