Morro da Urca Overview
Beginner Skill Level
Urca, Rio de Janeiro
3-4 hours
The first stop of the cable car going to the Sugarloaf Mountain, Morro da Urca is a smaller peak that offers fantastic climbing options for beginners, climbers that are new to multi-pitch and those learning to lead climb. It is a very popular training ground, not only due to the quality and variety of its beginner-level routes, but also due to its stunning natural setting, easy access and gorgeous views that are a trademark of climbing in Rio de Janeiro
Two rock climbers on the north face of Morro da Urca, Rio de Janeiro
Two climbers on the south face of Morro da Urca, Rio de Janeiro
Grading
Up to V BR | 5 FR | 5.9 US
Length
Multi-pitch routes of 60 to 120 meters
Approach
10-30 min. walk from our meeting place
Descent
Return from summit by trail
Morro da Urca highlights
best climbing location for first-time climbers
spectacular setting (part of the sugarloaf complex)
Morro da Urca has two main climbing sectors, its South Side and its North Side. Both feature a variety of gently-inclined multi-pitch routes, ideal for new climbers.
The South Face is quicker to access (10 minute walk from our meeting point) and features longer but easier routes. The North Face is more remote, requiring a 30 minute trail walk to get to the base of the climbs. Routes on the North Face are shorter than those on the South Face, however, some start more vertical and present an extra challenge!
All the routes end at the summit of Morro da Urca. If you would like, you can purchase a cable car ticket from there to continue on to the main Sugarloaf Mountain peak.
You don’t need to worry about selecting a route at the time of booking. Your guide will help you decide based on your interests and your experience. If it’s your first time climbing, your guide will teach you everything you will need to know.
During your climb, you will have a lot of opportunities to practice your new skills, ask any questions you may have, and of course, take lots of pictures and enjoy your day climbing!
Planning your climb
Price
One person: R$390
Two people: R$320 per person
Group size
Maximum participant to guide ratio is 2:1
All reservations are private - your guide will be exclusive to your reservation
Availability
Every day, all year round
Afternoon start available only in the months of May to August
What is included
Certified rock climbing guide
Collective rock climbing equipment: rope, quick-draws and anchor building equipment
Any individual rock climbing equipment you may need to borrow (see below)
Equipment you will need
Your individual rock climbing equipment:
rock shoes
harness
helmet
ATC-type belay device and carabiner
personal anchor
You can borrow from us if you don’t have your own equipment set or are missing an item.
Please indicate any equipment needs in the booking form.
What else you should bring
Water (1.5L per person) and snacks
Sunscreen and bug repellent
Backpack to carry your belongings and keep your hands and arms free
Wear closed-toe outdoor shoes. Avoid sandals and flip-flops
Where we meet
Angel Statue in the center of the Praça General Tibúrcio in the neighbourhood of Urca. See your confirmation email for full details.
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
Two rock climbers on the north face of Morro da Urca with the Sugarloaf Mountain in the background
Girl rock climbing on the Coloridos Wall on the south face of Morro da Urca in Rio de Janeiro
Two rock climbers at the summit of Morro da Urca in Rio de Janeiro
Rock climber on the south face of Morro da Urca in Rio de Janeiro
Two rock climbers on the south face of Morro da Urca with the Sugarloaf Mountain in the background
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$320/person