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Visit Sugarloaf Mountain | Timings & directions

Sugarloaf Mountain | Visitor information at a glance

What are Sugarloaf Mountain's opening hours?

Sugarloaf Mountain is open Monday to Thursday from 9am to 8pm and on Friday to Sunday from 8:30am to 8:30pm.

The last time to board the cable car is 6:30pm or 7pm depending on the day. The cable car leaves every 20 minutes. It is recommended to arrive at 5:30 before sunset for the best views.

Where is Sugarloaf Mountain located?

  • Address: Praia Vermelha, Urca neighborhood, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil ​Find on Map
  • The cable car base station is at Praia Vermelha, from where visitors ascend to Morro da Urca and then to the summit of Sugarloaf Mountain.
About Sugarloaf Mountain

Book tickets to Sugarloaf Mountain

From Rio: Christ the Redeemer, Selarón Steps & Sugarloaf at Sunset Half Day Trip

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6 hr.
Guided tour
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From Rio: Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf & More Full Day Trip with Optional Lunch

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8 hr.
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Sugarloaf Cable Car Ticket

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Flexible duration
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Sugarloaf Mountain's opening hours

The opening hours are as follows:

  • Monday to Thursday: 9am – 8pm (last boarding at 6:30 pm)
  • Friday to Sunday: 8:30am – 8:30pm (last boarding at 7pm)
  • The hiking gate closes at 6pm 
  • The cable car leaves every 20 minutes and the last cable car leaves at 6:30pm Momday to Thursday and 7pm Friday to Sunday

To make the most of your experience, try to visit early in the morning for cooler weather and fewer crowds, or head up in the late afternoon to catch a spectacular sunset over Rio de Janeiro.

It's recommended to arrive at least 15–30 minutes before your planned cable car ride, especially if you haven’t pre-booked your tickets.

​More about Sugarloaf Mountain's opening hours

What's the best time to visit Sugarloaf Mountain?

Weekdays vs. Weekends

  • Weekdays are the best time to visit if you want to avoid crowds. Mornings are particularly peaceful, offering a more relaxed experience.
  • Weekends and holidays tend to be much busier, especially from mid-morning onward. Expect longer queues for the cable cars and more visitors at the viewpoints.

Peak Season vs. Low Season

  • Peak Season (December to March): This is summer in Rio—warm, sunny, and ideal for photography. However, it’s also the busiest and most expensive time to visit. Book tickets and arrive early to avoid the crowds and heat.
  • Low Season (May to September): These months offer cooler weather and fewer tourists, making it a great time for hiking and peaceful sightseeing. Visibility is usually good, but occasional rain or fog can affect views.

Getting to Sugarloaf Mountain

By public transport

Closest Stop: Praia Vermelha (Urca neighborhood)

Time Taken: 40–50 minutes from central Rio

Multiple city bus lines serve the Urca neighborhood. Look for buses heading to Praia Vermelha or Urca. From the stop, it’s just a short walk to the cable car entrance. While affordable, this option may be slower due to traffic and stop frequency.

By car

Closest Parking: Near the Cable Car Base Station at Av. Pasteur, 520 – Urca

Time Taken: Around 23 minutes under normal traffic conditions

Driving from Galeão International Airport to Sugarloaf Mountain is straightforward. The route covers about 24 kilometers and typically takes around 23 minutes. Be mindful that traffic conditions can vary, especially during peak hours.

More about getting to Sugarloaf Mountain

Sugarloaf Mountain to Christ the Redeemer

Distance: Approximately 11 kilometers

Travel Time by Car: Around 22 minutes under normal traffic conditions

Once you've soaked in the sweeping views from Sugarloaf Mountain, you can easily head to another of Rio’s famous landmarks - ​Christ the Redeemer on Corcovado Mountain. The journey between the two sites is straightforward and takes about 20 to 25 minutes by car, depending on traffic.

You’ll pass through scenic neighborhoods like Botafogo and Laranjeiras, with glimpses of Rio’s bays and hills along the way. The most popular route is to take a taxi or rideshare, though guided tours often include both stops on a single itinerary for added convenience.

If you’re feeling adventurous, public transport options are available too, but they require transfers and more time. For the smoothest experience, especially during peak tourist hours, a car or organized transfer is highly recommended.

​Take a guided tour of Sugarloaf Mountain & Christ the Redeemer

Know before you go to Sugarloaf Mountain

  • Monday to Thursday: 9am – 8pm 
  • Friday to Sunday: 8:30am – 8:30pm 
  • Best time to visit: Sunset is widely considered the best time to visit Sugarloaf Mountain. Arriving in the late afternoon (around 3:30–5pm) allows you to enjoy breathtaking sunset views over Rio
  • Arrive at least 30 minutes before sunset to secure a good viewing spot, as it can get crowded during this time

Address: Av. Pasteur, 520 - Urca, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 22290-240, Brazil

​Find on Map

Sugarloaf Mountain is nestled in the charming seaside neighborhood of Urca, one of the safest and most scenic areas in Rio de Janeiro

  • By Taxi or Rideshare: Taxis and apps like Uber are widely available and can drop you off right at the entrance to the cable car station.
  • By Metro + Taxi/Bus: Take the Rio Metro Line 1 to Botafogo Station. From there, it's just a short 5-10 minute taxi or bus ride to the entrance at Praia Vermelha.

The area around Sugarloaf is also lovely to explore, with a tree-lined promenade, coastal walking paths, and Praia Vermelha beach just steps away.

Sugarloaf Mountain offers a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit for everyone:

  • Dining options: Both Morro da Urca (the first cable car stop) and the summit of Sugarloaf feature restaurants, snack bars, and kiosks serving everything from quick bites to full meals. Enjoy a cold drink or a Brazilian treat while soaking up the view!
  • Shopping: Souvenir shops are located at key stops, where you can pick up gifts, local crafts, and memorabilia to remember your visit.
  • Restrooms & drinking fountains: Clean and well-maintained restrooms are available at both Morro da Urca and the summit. Drinking fountains are also available, so you can stay refreshed during your visit.
  • Shaded areas & seating: The complex has plenty of shaded spots, benches, and lounge areas, making it easy to rest and take in the breathtaking scenery. Whether you're traveling with kids or seniors or just want a peaceful moment to relax, the site is well-suited for visitors of all ages.
  • Both cable car stations (Praia Vermelha and Morro da Urca) are wheelchair accessible.
  • Elevators and ramps are available in key areas, including viewing platforms.
  • The cable cars themselves are accessible for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
  • Restrooms for people with disabilities are available at both levels.
  • While the hiking trail to Morro da Urca is not accessible, cable car access allows everyone to enjoy the views without needing to hike.
  • Staff on-site are trained to assist visitors with limited mobility.

Frequently asked questions about visiting Sugarloaf Mountain

What’s the best time of day to visit Sugarloaf Mountain?

The best time is early morning or late afternoon when temperatures are cooler and lighting is ideal for photos. Sunset offers especially stunning views.

Is there parking available?

Yes, there is paid parking available near the cable car station at Praia Vermelha, but it can fill up quickly during peak hours.

How high is Sugarloaf Mountain?

Sugarloaf Mountain rises 396 meters (1,299 feet) above sea level, offering 360° views of Rio, the Atlantic Ocean, and Guanabara Bay.

What’s the difference between Morro da Urca and Sugarloaf Mountain?

Morro da Urca is the first hill reached by cable car or hiking. The second leg of the cable car takes you to the summit of Sugarloaf Mountain.

Can I take photos and videos?

Absolutely! Photography is allowed and encouraged—the views are iconic. Drones, however, are typically not permitted without special authorization.

Can I hike to the top instead of using the cable car?

You can hike to Morro da Urca (30–45 mins), but reaching the summit requires a cable car or advanced rock climbing experience.

Can I visit both Sugarloaf and Christ the Redeemer in one day?

Absolutely. They're about 11 km apart and can be easily combined into a half-day or full-day trip.

What’s the weather like at the top?

The summit can be cooler and windier than the base. It's best to bring a light jacket and check weather forecasts before you go.

What can I see from the top?

You’ll get 360° views of Rio’s landmarks: Copacabana Beach, Christ the Redeemer, Guanabara Bay, and Niterói.

Information

All screenshots of maps found on this page are sourced from Google in accordance with fair use. All rights to such screenshots lie with the specific platform, and their use is solely for informational or guidance purposes.

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