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Pao de Acucar (Sugar Loaf Mountain)

This conical mountain vies with the Corcovado for the visitor's vote of best overall panoramic view. Originally called Pau-nh-Açquá (high, pointed peak) by the Tupi Indians, it was renamed Pão de Açúcar (Sugar Loaf) by the Portuguese, who thought the shape of the 394m (1,293ft) granite rock resembled moulds used to set sugar cane.

Climbers frequently ascend the rock but the less strenuous and most popular route to the top is by two cable cars - a system that has been in operation since 1912. The present Italian-style cars complete the journey in two stages. The first leg of the ascent takes visitors from Praia Vermelha to a height of 220m (720ft) above sea level, stopping at the summit of Morro da Urca. The second leg completes the journey to the Sugar Loaf over a distance of 750m (2,460ft).

The final stop offers fine views of the beaches, the city, the mountains of Tijuca National Park and the islands of Guanabara Bay. Just before sunset is the most dramatic time to arrive. The area also has several, safe, wooded trails, where it is possible to escape the majority of the tourists who frequently arrive at the summit.

Address: 
Avenida Pasteur 520,
Praia Vermelha,
Rio de Janeiro,
Brazil
Telephone: 
(21) 2461 2700.
Website: 
www.bondinho.com.br
Opening times: 

Daily 0810-2200 (the cable car leaves every 30 minutes or when full).

Admission fees: 

Yes

Disabled access: 
Yes
Unesco: 
No

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