Dois Irmãos Hill: the Vidigal trail and Ipanema views

Dois Irmãos Hill (Morro Dois Irmãos, “Two Brothers”) is the pair of peaks that appear at the end of Leblon beach and in almost every photo of Ipanema. The name comes precisely from this shape of two summits side by side.

The trail

The most used trail starts at the top of Vidigal, a community on the hillside above Avenida Niemeyer. From the top, the view takes in Ipanema, Leblon, Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon, Corcovado and, on the other side, São Conrado and Pedra da Gávea.

It is a moderate trail, with a steady climb and stretches of rock and dirt. Bring water, wear sturdy sneakers and avoid the hottest hours.

Best time

In the morning the light is soft and it is less hot. The sunset is beautiful, but coming down in the dark requires a flashlight and experience: if you go in the late afternoon, go with a guide.

Seeing it from below

If you do not want to climb, you can see Dois Irmãos from several spots: from the Arpoador rock, from Leblon Beach and from the Leblon lookout.

Compare it with other walks in hiking in Rio.

Frequently asked questions

Where does the Dois Irmãos trail start?

At the top of Vidigal, a community on the hillside above Avenida Niemeyer. Ideally go with a guide or local guide.

Is the Dois Irmãos trail difficult?

It is moderate: a steady climb with stretches of rock and dirt. It takes some stamina, but there is no rock climbing.

Dois Irmãos Hill