Here are 3 ways to explore the stunning Sugarloaf Mountain

Sugarloaf Mountain, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

RIO

Sugarloaf Mountain is breathtaking. As if the churrasco and pao de queijo didn’t already have my mouth watering, Sugarloaf, as it’s aptly named, resembles a concentrated loaf of refined sugar. I’m a closet @CakeBoss fan, so for me, seeing a giant frosted pasty rise up out of the Atlantic overlooking Rio is uniquely satisfying. Tasty treat resemblance aside, the views from the top of Sugarloaf are definitely worth savoring. From the deep contrasts of its urban landscape to its pristine beaches, to the deep blue waters of Guanabara Bay, the views of Rio from atop Sugarloaf Mountain are truly stunning. At Sugarloaf, as in life, there’s more than one way to the top. Here are 3 ways to explore Sugarloaf Mountain:

#1 By Cablecar

Choose the Swiss-designed, glass-walled cable car running along a 1,400 m (4,600 ft) route between the peaks of Sugarloaf and Morro da Urca and you’ll be treated to panoramic views of Rio de Janeiro’s bustling neighborhoods, sprawling beaches, and lush jungles. The original cable car line was built in 1912 and was only the third cableway to be built in the world. The trip begins from a ground station, at the base of Morro da Babilônia with a brief stop atop the 722-foot tall hill, Morro da Urca, before ascending to Sugarloaf’s summit 396 m (1,299 ft) above the harbor.

#2 Climb

If you’re the adventurous type, like me, you can climb Sugarloaf. As a matter of fact, Sugarloaf and the surrounding area feature one of the largest urban climbing areas on Earth, with more than 270 routes. The front face of Sugarloaf has some of the best climbing in the world, and while the back face is a bit more user-friendly, the views are just as stunning. 

#3 Hike

If you’re looking for something a little less death-defying, hike up or down Morro da Urca, which essentially serves as the midpoint station to and from Sugarloaf. The Morro da Urca hike is a quick jaunt through the jungle on an easily navigable path. At the top, you can ride the cable car up to the top of Sugarloaf or back down to ground level.

Here are a few adventures that I recommend:

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• Rio Mountain Sports
• Sugarloaf Climbing
• Sugarloaf + Christ Redeemer Excursion

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The views at Sugarloaf took my breath away. From the summit, I was even able to make out Christ the Redeemer perched atop a cloud, as though he was peacefully watching over the city. The blend of city and nature vistas makes Sugarloaf Mountain an unforgettable destination. Before you go, don’t forget about lunch! You can either pack a lunch to eat at picnic tables or grab a bite at the cafe. A nice meal at the cafe typically runs ~$15.

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