Sugarloaf Mountain
Iconic peak offering breathtaking 360-degree views of Rio de Janeiro via a scenic cable car ride.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Sugarloaf Mountain
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic peak offering breathtaking 360-degree views of Rio de Janeiro via a scenic cable car ride.
"Spectacular place in Rio with 360-degree views, unlike Corcovado with a limited viewpoint."
🎯 Buy Tickets Online
Save time and skip the ticket line by purchasing your 'bondinho' tickets online in advance!
🌅 Catch the Sunset
The sunset views are legendary, but can get crowded. Arrive early to secure a good spot!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic City Views
Summit of Sugarloaf Mountain
Experience breathtaking 360-degree vistas of Rio de Janeiro, Guanabara Bay, and iconic landmarks.
Cable Car Ride
From Praia Vermelha to Morro da Urca, then to Sugarloaf
Enjoy a scenic journey aboard the iconic 'bondinho' with stunning views unfolding at every ascent.
Sunset Spectacle
Summit of Sugarloaf Mountain
Witness a truly magical sunset painting the sky with vibrant colors over the city and bay.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets Online
Timing is Everything
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Buy Tickets Online
Save time and skip the ticket line by purchasing your 'bondinho' tickets online in advance!
🌅 Catch the Sunset
The sunset views are legendary, but can get crowded. Arrive early to secure a good spot! +1
🚶 Hike Morro da Urca
Consider hiking the trail to the first peak (Morro da Urca) to potentially save time. +1
🎶 Enjoy the DJ Sets
Experience the evening vibe with DJ sets on the first mountain – a unique party atmosphere!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Buy Tickets Online
Save time and skip the ticket line by purchasing your 'bondinho' tickets online in advance!
🌅 Catch the Sunset
The sunset views are legendary, but can get crowded. Arrive early to secure a good spot! +1
🚶 Hike Morro da Urca
Consider hiking the trail to the first peak (Morro da Urca) to potentially save time. +1
🎶 Enjoy the DJ Sets
Experience the evening vibe with DJ sets on the first mountain – a unique party atmosphere!
📸 Perfect Photo Ops
Bring your camera! The 360-degree views offer incredible photo opportunities of Rio.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Sugarloaf Mountain for its absolutely spectacular 360-degree panoramic views of Rio de Janeiro, offering a more comprehensive vista than other landmarks. The scenic cable car ride is a highlight, and the sunset experience is frequently described as magical and unforgettable. While the beauty is undeniable, some visitors note that it can get very crowded, especially during peak hours and weekends, leading to long queues.
"The most spectacular place in Rio, highly recommended. Sugar Loaf Mountain has a 360-degree view, unlike Corcovado with a limited viewpoint. Sugar Loaf offers a 360-degree view. You can see the Santos Dumont Intl. Airport and runway, the bridge to Niteroi, the beaches and neighborhoods of Ipanema, Copacabana, Botafogo, Leme and Flamengo. Your photos with such a background will be excellent. There is a cafe at the top where you can see the magnificent Copacabana."
Dimo
"Sugarloaf in Rio offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city, beaches, and mountains, absolutely worth the visit. The cable car ride is smooth and scenic. It can get very crowded, especially during peak hours, so try to go early or on a weekday. There are a few shops and places to grab a snack at the top, but prices are a bit high. Still, the overall experience is unforgettable and a must-do while in Rio!"
Russo Gasimov
"The lines move fairly quickly and there are great views. You take two different cable cars to get to the top and you have a wristband with a QR code that you will repeatedly scan to go up and then back down in the cable cars. Definitely worth it for the views alone."
Heather S.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take a taxi or ride-sharing service directly to the base of Sugarloaf Mountain (Praia Vermelha). Public buses are also an option, but may require transfers. The journey typically takes around 20-30 minutes depending on traffic.
Yes, there's a trail to the first peak, Morro da Urca. It's considered relatively safe but some travelers advise caution and letting someone know your plans. It's a good alternative to avoid some of the cable car queues.+1
The most popular and scenic way is via the 'bondinho' (cable car) from Praia Vermelha. Taxis and ride-sharing apps are also convenient options for reaching the base.
Yes, several bus lines serve the Urca neighborhood where Sugarloaf Mountain is located. You might need to check local bus routes for the most direct options from your starting point.
The main entrance and ticket office for the cable car are located at Praia Vermelha, Urca, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The official name is Parque Bondinho Pão de Açúcar.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but expect to pay around $40 USD for the full experience, including both cable car segments. It's advisable to check the official website for the most current pricing.
It is highly recommended to buy your Sugarloaf Mountain tickets online through the official website to avoid long queues, especially on weekends and holidays.
Sugarloaf Mountain typically opens around 9 AM and closes in the early evening. The last cable car ride up is usually around 7 PM, but it's best to check the official website for exact Sugarloaf Mountain opening hours and Sugarloaf Mountain closing time as they can vary seasonally.
No, you absolutely do not need to buy tickets in person. Purchasing Sugarloaf Mountain tickets online is strongly advised to save time and guarantee entry.
The standard ticket typically covers the round trip on both cable car segments. Some special events or tours might offer different packages, but the main admission is for the full ascent.
📸 📸 Photography
Everywhere! The panoramic views from both peaks offer incredible backdrops. Don't miss the shots of Christ the Redeemer in the distance, the beaches, and the city skyline, especially during sunset.+1
The natural lighting and stunning scenery make photography relatively easy. Golden hour (around sunset) provides particularly beautiful light. Be mindful of other visitors when composing your shots.
Yes, you can bring professional camera equipment. There are no specific restrictions mentioned for standard photography gear.
Late afternoon leading into sunset is ideal for photography, offering dramatic lighting and vibrant colors. Early morning also provides good light with fewer crowds.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage might require special permits. Always check the official park regulations if you have specific needs.
🎫 ⛰️ Onsite Experience
At the top, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views, visit cafes and restaurants, browse souvenir shops, and even catch live DJ sets during certain evenings.
A typical visit can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours, depending on how long you spend enjoying the views, dining, and potential waiting times for the cable cars. Some visitors stay longer to experience the sunset.
Yes, Sugarloaf Mountain is very family-friendly. The cable car ride is exciting for kids, and the open spaces at the peaks allow them to explore safely while enjoying the views.
Sugarloaf Mountain has an elevation of 396 meters (approximately 1,299 feet) above sea level.
Yes, there are cafes and restaurants on both the first and second peaks where you can purchase food and drinks. However, prices can be a bit higher than in the city.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Bring snacks and drinks, although options are available for purchase at the summit. The views are captivating for all ages, making it a memorable outing for the entire family. Ensure you have comfortable shoes for walking around the viewing platforms.
💰 Budget Travelers
For a more budget-friendly experience, explore the hiking trail to Morro da Urca as an alternative to the first cable car segment. This can save you a bit on the ticket price if you opt for a one-way cable car ticket down, or simply enjoy the hike up and down. However, be aware of the time and effort involved.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't forget to capture the iconic cable cars against the backdrop of the city and the ocean. Shots of Christ the Redeemer in the distance, the sprawling beaches, and the intricate city layout are all must-haves. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive panoramas.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Cable Car Journey
The cable cars themselves offer a unique perspective as you glide over the bay and city. Each car has a capacity, and during peak times, you might experience queues for boarding. However, the smooth ride and the ever-unfolding vistas make it a memorable part of the visit. The system is designed for safety and efficiency, ensuring a pleasant journey for all visitors.
Many visitors find the cable car ride to be a highlight, providing a sense of adventure and anticipation as they ascend towards the breathtaking panoramas. It’s a smooth and comfortable way to reach the top, allowing everyone, regardless of physical fitness, to enjoy the spectacular scenery of Rio de Janeiro.
Experiencing Sunset at Sugarloaf Mountain
However, the allure of the sunset also means it's one of the busiest times to visit. Travelers often report long queues for the cable cars, both going up and coming down, especially on weekends and during peak tourist seasons.
Despite the potential crowds, the sheer beauty of the sunset from this vantage point is often described as unforgettable and worth the wait. The changing colors of the sky reflecting on the water and the city lights beginning to twinkle create a truly spectacular scene that many consider a must-do in Rio.
The Hiking Trail Option
While the trail is generally considered manageable, it's important to be prepared. Travelers on Reddit have shared advice about its safety, with some recommending it as a good option while others suggest being aware of your surroundings and informing someone of your plans.
This hiking option is a great way to add an element of adventure to your visit and experience Sugarloaf Mountain from a different angle. It’s a chance to connect with nature and enjoy the lush surroundings before reaching the iconic viewpoints.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit