Sugarloaf Mountain Cable Car Tours

Ascend to Rio's most iconic summit for 360° panoramic views of Copacabana, Christ the Redeemer, and Guanabara Bay — without the wait.

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2 to 4 hours (Self-paced)
1 Languages
Private & Small Groups Available
Free Cancellation
Everything You Need to Know

Complete Experience Guide

All the details about your upcoming adventure in one place

Experience

The Ultimate Rio Skyline Experience

Rising 396 meters (1,299 feet) above the harbor, Sugarloaf Mountain (Pão de Açúcar) offers the single most dramatic perspective of Rio de Janeiro. Your journey begins at Praia Vermelha, where you'll board the first 'Bondinho' cable car to Morro da Urca, ascending 220 meters for your first taste of the breathtaking scenery. From there, a second cable car whisks you to the summit of Sugarloaf itself. As you float above the Atlantic rainforest, you'll be treated to unparalleled 360-degree views of the Christ the Redeemer statue, the curving sands of Copacabana and Ipanema, and the sparkling waters of Guanabara Bay. Whether you visit for the crystal-clear morning light or the magical colors of sunset, this is the postcard moment defining every Rio vacation.

4.8/5
Average Rating
40M+
Visitors Since 1912
396m
Summit Height
360°
Panoramic Views

Why Book With Us

Official Partner Operators

We work directly with authorized ticket providers and top-rated tour companies like Viator to guarantee valid, authentic entry to Parque Bondinho

Skip the Ticket Line

Save hours of waiting in the tropical heat with our pre-booked Fast-Pass options, giving you priority access to the cable car boarding area

Curated Experiences

From simple admission tickets to comprehensive city tours including Christ the Redeemer, we've hand-picked the highest-rated options

Flexible Booking

Plans change? Most of our listed tickets and tours offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before your scheduled visit for total peace of mind

Verified Traveler Reviews

Make informed decisions based on thousands of recent, authentic reviews from travelers who have actually taken the tour

Best Price Guarantee

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Skip-the-line access
Iconic cable car rides
Views of Copacabana and Ipanema
Panoramic Rio skyline vistas

Essential Information

Know Before You Go

Cable Car Logistics
Two-stage ride
Departures every 20 mins
3-minute ride duration
Weather & Views
Best views in AM or sunset
Operations pause in high wind
Bring sun protection
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible ramps
Elevators available
Accessible restrooms
Facilities
Restaurants on summit
Souvenir shops
Free WiFi available

Not Allowed

Large bags or luggage
Pets (except service animals)
Food and drinks
Essential Information

Booking Tips

  • Buy tickets online to skip the box office queue
  • Choose the 'Fast Pass' if visiting on weekends
  • Arrive 30 minutes before sunset for the best light
  • Bring your passport or ID for ticket validation

What to Bring

  • Camera or Smartphone
  • Sunscreen & Sunglasses
  • Light Jacket (windy at top)
  • Credit Card/Cash for snacks
  • Passport/ID for ticket validation

Best Seasons to Visit

May to September (Drier, clearer skies)|December to March (Hotter, festive atmosphere)

What to Wear

Light breathable clothing|Comfortable walking shoes|Light jacket (it can be windy at the top)|Hat and sunglasses

Planning

Historical Context

The cable car was the vision of engineer Augusto Ferreira Ramos and opened in 1912, transforming Rio's tourism forever. The wooden cars were replaced by metal ones in 1972, and the current bubble-shaped cars in 2008.

Photography Tips

  • Bring a zoom lens to capture Christ the Redeemer from afar
  • Use a polarizer to cut glare on the water
  • Golden hour provides the most flattering light
  • Night photography requires a steady hand or clamp (tripods may be restricted)

Insider Tips

  • Stand on the right side of the cable car going up for the best view of the beach
  • Visit the history museum at the first station
  • Try the locally made 'Mate' drink at the summit
  • Don't rush the first station; the views are different and equally stunning

Our Partners

  • In partnership with Parque Bondinho Pão de Açúcar and Viator

Fun Facts

  • The name 'Sugarloaf' comes from the shape of concentrated refined sugar molds used in the 16th century
  • It was the third cable car system built in the world
  • Rock climbers have established over 270 routes up the mountain

Cancellation Policy

Most tickets and tours offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience date. Check specific terms at checkout.

Social Media

Share your experience: #SugarloafMountain #PaoDeAcucar #RioDeJaneiro #VisitRio #BrazilTravel #BucketList

Explore More

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Customer Reviews

What Our Guests Say

Real experiences from real travelers

S
Sarah Jenkins
UK • 2024-02-10

Absolutely unmissable!

We booked the skip-the-line ticket and it was worth every penny. The line for regular tickets was huge, but we walked right through. The views at sunset are literally breathtaking. Make sure you stay for the city lights!

M
Marcelo Rossi
Brazil • 2024-01-22

Orgulho do Rio

Wonderful experience. Even as a Brazilian, I am amazed every time. The organization is perfect, everything is clean and safe. The new restaurants at the top are great for a drink with a view.

C
Chen Wei
China • 2023-12-15

Great views, but crowded

The scenery is spectacular, especially the view of Christ the Redeemer. It was very crowded in the afternoon, so I suggest going early in the morning. The cable car ride is smooth and feels safe.

J
Jessica & Tom
USA • 2024-03-05

Highlight of our honeymoon

We did the sunrise tour with breakfast and it was magical. Having the mountain almost to ourselves before the crowds arrived was special. The breakfast at the top was delicious. Highly recommend upgrading!

H
Hassan Al-Fayed
UAE • 2024-02-28

Efficient and beautiful

Very well organized attraction. Access for strollers was easy which helped with our kids. The 360 view is the best in Rio. Prices for food at the top are high, but expected for the location.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know for your journey

Experience

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4.9/5
Free Cancellation
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