Sugarloaf Mountain by the Costão Route

Reach the top of Sugarloaf on foot and by rock, then ride the cable car down.

Half day (3 to 4 hours)
Moderate
Minimum age: 12 years
Minimum 2 people
EN · ES · PT

About this experience

The Costão is the most accessible way to reach the 396-metre top of Sugarloaf on foot. It mixes flat trail, steep uphill and a short third-grade climbing section done with rope and gear. You don't need to have climbed before. At the top you're at the same viewpoint as the cable car, looking out over Guanabara Bay, Copacabana and Christ the Redeemer.

You ride the cable car down to Morro da Urca and walk a short trail from there to Pista Cláudio Coutinho. In the afternoon you can stay at the top for sunset.

In numbers

Altitude: 396 m
Grade: 3º BR · 5.6 US · 3+ FR
Hike: 3 to 4 h
Best time: Afternoon

How the day goes

Hotel pickup and meeting at Praia Vermelha in Urca.
Walk along Pista Cláudio Coutinho and climb through the forest to the base of the Costão.
Climbing section with rope, harness and helmet.
Sugarloaf summit and free time at the viewpoints.
Cable car to Morro da Urca, short hike down and return to your hotel.

Included

Certified climbing guide
Certified safety gear (helmet, harness, ropes)
Hotel pickup in the South Zone (optional, at the price with transport)
Personal accident insurance

Not included

Cable car ticket for the descent (optional)
Food and drinks

What to bring

Small daypack
1.5 L of water
Light snack
Sunscreen
Insect repellent
Trainers with good grip

Good to know

In the afternoon the light is better for photos and the top is cooler.
People afraid of heights are often surprised: the climbing section is short and well protected.
For safety, leave earrings, piercings, rings and watches behind. Tie long hair back while climbing.