Climbing the Carrasqueira section of the Pedra da Gavea trail
Pedra da Gavea Overview
Hike intensity: strenuous
Tijuca National Park
6-8 hours
The Pedra da Gavea trail is one of the most beautiful and challenging hikes in the city of Rio de Janeiro. Located within the Tijuca National Park and passing through the Atlantic Forest, the trail is a steep ascent to the summit of the world’s tallest coastal monolith. From the top, the views stretch across the entire city of Rio de Janeiro - it’s possible to see Sugarloaf, Christ the Redeemer, beaches of Copacabana, Ipanema, Sao Conrado, and even the mountains of the Serra dos Orgaos
Beautiful views from the summit of Pedra da Gavea
Hiking the trail to the top of Pedra da Gavea
Type of activity
Steep hiking trail with a rock climbing section
Altitude
844 meters, with trail elevation gain of 754 meters
Trail length
7.2 km round-trip from the trailhead
Minimum age
Children 7 years and older can participate
Hiking Pedra da Gavea
Pedra da Gavea is one of the most striking mountains on the coast of Rio de Janeiro. It received its name for its similarity to the “gavea”, an observation basket on the mast of the 15th-century Portuguese sailing ships. The mountain is over 800 meters high and has an unforgettable view from its summit. Getting to the top of Gavea is an experience not to be missed!
We start the hike at 8am when the entrance to the trail opens. We follow the trail as it winds through the Atlantic Forest, a beautiful and shaded natural environment rich in diverse fauna and flora. It is a steep hike, with many natural obstacles and challenges along the way.
After completing about two-thirds of the hike, we arrive at a 30-meter “scramble” - a steep, rocky section called Carrasqueira where we use a rope and other rock climbing equipment to get to the top safely. The trail exits the heavily forested area at this point and the views open up! After another 20 minutes of hiking, we arrive at Gavea’s incredible summit - an impressive plateau offering 360-degree views of Rio de Janeiro and its spectacular landscape.
After enjoying some time at the summit and taking a lot of pictures, we begin our hike back along the same trail used to summit. We descend Carrasqueira using a rope and a technique similar to rappel, allowing us to pass the section with safety and confidence.
Although the trail is strenuous, prior hiking or rock climbing experience is not required. Our guides always lead at a pace that is suitable for all participants. Furthermore, they always stay close and give lots of hiking and climbing tips along the way!
Planning your hike
Price
One person: R$480
Two people: R$340 per person
Three or more: R$280 per person
Group size
Maximum participant to guide ratio is 5:1
All reservations are private - your guide will be exclusive to your reservation
Availability
Every day, all year round
What is included
Certified rock climbing and mountain guide
All safety equipment including rope and harnesses
What you should bring
Water (at least 2L per person)
Sandwich and snacks
Sunscreen and bug repellent
Backpack - it’s important to keep your hands free. Hand bags and shoulder bags should be avoided
Wear walking, hiking or running shoes. Flip-flops and casual sandals are not permitted on the hike
Where we meet
Close to Praça Desembargador Araújo Jorge in the neighbourhood of Barra da Tijuca. See your confirmation email for full details.
Frequently asked questions
Is the use of safety equipment necessary?
Pedra da Gavea trail features a 30-meter rocky, vertical and exposed section known as Carrasqueira. Although it is not difficult to climb, any slip or fall could result in severe injury due to the height and inclination of this terrain. When there are many people climbing at the same time without equipment, the risk of an accident increases significantly. On the way back down, passing Carrasqueira down-climbing is quite difficult for most people, even if climbing up the pitch was relatively easy.
We always use internationally-certified rock climbing equipment to ensure all of our participants climb up and descend this section safely.
Who are the guides?
All of our guides are certified rock climbing guides and instructors. They are trained and experienced in best practices to maximize your safety on the mountain.
Do I need to have prior climbing experience?
No, you don't need to have any prior rock climbing experience! In fact, this hike is a fantastic introduction to rock climbing for those that have never climbed before. Your guide will carefully explain everything you need to know to climb with confidence and will stay close to you to offer tips and help should you need them.
Do I need to be very fit?
You don't need to be exceptionally fit, as your guide will lead at a pace that is suitable for you. You will be able to stop and take a break whenever you like. As all of our reservations are private, you don't need to worry about being in an open group with potentially mixed fitness levels.
Can my child participate as well?
In general, children 7 years of age and older can participate in the Pedra da Gavea hike. Read carefully the description of the hike and compare its demands to what your child has already done or regulary practices as a part of their lifestyle. If you need help in assessing your child's preparedness, reach out to us.
What should I wear for the hike?
Wear comfortable, athletic clothing that lets you move freely. You can wear either pants or shorts. Shorts are generally more comfortable due to the high temperatures in Rio, while long pants have the advantage of protecting you from potential scratches and insects on the trail. For best pictures, wear bright colors and avoid black and grey which don't stand out as well. For footwear, choose lightweight closed-toe outdoor shoes with good traction on rock.
Keep these in mind
Participant responsibilities
You are an equal partner in the safety and success of your climbing experience. Ensure that you read and understand your responsibilities as a participant
Assumption of risk
It is impossible to eliminate all risks associated with climbing. Our goal is to minimize your risk, but ultimately you must assume full responsibility for your participation. Ensure that you read and understand our assumption of risk terms
Cancellation and reschedulinG
Read our cancellation and rescheduling policy to understand what happens if you need to change your plans or if the conditions on the reserved day are not suitable for your chosen activity
Descending the Carrasqueira section of the Pedra da Gavea trail
Girl sitting at the edge of a cliff at the top of Pedra da Gavea
Beautiful views on the hike to the top of Pedra da Gavea in Rio de Janeiro
Man hiking up a steep section of the Pedra da Gavea trail
Sweeping ocean views from the top of Pedra da Gavea
Secure online booking
Booking is easy. Our availability is reflected live in the system. Making your booking will secure your date and you can contact us at any time to ask questions, discuss options and finalize details!
Interested in expanding your skills to take on bigger adventures? Check out our extensive range of outdoor rock climbing courses in Rio de Janeiro
From R$280/person
