Group of hikers on a lookout point on Sugarloaf Mountain
Sugarloaf Overview
Hike intensity: moderate
Urca, Rio de Janeiro
4 hours
Discover the Costao trail, the original route to the summit of the Sugarloaf Mountain! This steep trail is one of the most incredible hikes in the city and few visitors know about it - most assume that the only way to the top is by cable car. Although the trail features a vertical pitch of rock climbing, it does not require prior climbing experience. With the help of safety gear and our guides, you can conquer this challenge and continue to the top of Rio’s famous Sugarloaf Mountain. This is a classic Carioca experience not to be missed!
Hikers following a coastal path on hike to the top of Sugarloaf
Girl rock climbing on a vertical section of the Sugarloaf hike
Type of activity
Steep hiking trail with a rock climbing section
Altitude
395 meters, with trail elevation gain of 390 meters
Trail length
2.3 km to the summit (return by cable car and trail of 1.1 km)
Minimum age
Children 10 years and older can participate
Hiking Sugarloaf Mountain
The ascent to the top of Sugarloaf consists of steep trail hiking, easy rock "scrambles" and a vertical pitch of rock climbing. Throughout the hike, we enjoy magnificent views stretching over the Guanabara Bay and the beaches of Rio de Janeiro. We also get off the trail occasionally to enjoy breaks at the best lookout points! These views are only for those that climb!
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. Once at the vertical portion of the trail, we use full safety equipment, including a rope and harnesses, to climb up the section with safety and confidence. Furthermore, our guides always stay close and give lots of climbing tips!
It takes about two to three hours to reach the summit. After enjoying some time at the top of Sugarloaf, we take the charming cable car to the smaller peak Morro da Urca and from there, an easy forest trail to return to our starting point.
Planning your hike
Price
One person: R$320
Two or more: R$250 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
Morning start available only in the months of April to August
Afternoon start varies between 2pm and 3pm depending on the time of year
What is included
Certified rock climbing and mountain guide
All safety equipment including rope and harnesses
Return from Sugarloaf to Morro da Urca by cable car (from Morro da Urca we descend by trail)
What you should bring
Water (at least 1.5L per person) 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
Angel Statue in the center of the Praça General Tibúrcio in the neighbourhood of Urca. See your confirmation email for full details.
Frequently asked questions
Will we see the sunset from the top of Sugarloaf?
When we climb in the afternoon, we typically arrive at the top about an hour before the sunset. The exact timing depends on the number of people in the group, how fast we ascend, and if there are other people on the trail. If you would like to stay at the summit until the sunset, just let your guide know. Your guide will wait for you and there is no rush.
How do we get down from the mountain?
We first take a cable car that goes to the lower mountain peak called Morro da Urca. There is no charge to take this cable car. From Morro da Urca, we take a short and easy trail to get back down to our starting point.
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 10 years of age and older can participate in the Sugarloaf Hike. Children younger than 10 tend to have difficulty on the climbing portion, as their small size impedes them from reaching all the holds. 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
Hikers on a lookout point on the Sugarloaf Costao trail
Hiker approaching a vertical section of the Sugarloaf Costao trail
Hiker climbing the vertical section of the Sugarloaf Mountain Costao trail
Group of hikers above the clouds near the top of the Sugarloaf Mountain in Rio de Janeiro
Group of hikers along a dihedral on the Sugarloaf Mountain Costao trial
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$250/person
