Tours in Rio de Janeiro
Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf, viewpoints and trams: the classic outings and how to fit them in.
Updated on October 7, 2026 ✓ Information verified on October 6, 2026 adapted version of the Portuguese original
Rio’s classic tours climb mountains to see the city from above. Organize them around time and light.
The essentials
- Christ the Redeemer: by train, official van or on foot. Step by step in how to visit Christ the Redeemer.
- Sugarloaf Mountain: a cable car in two stages, ideal in the late afternoon.
- Mirante Dona Marta: a view of the bay with Sugarloaf straight ahead.
Other outings
- The Santa Teresa tram, riding over the Lapa Arches.
- The Pista Cláudio Coutinho and the Morro da Urca trail.
- Sunset at Arpoador.
Guided tours
Agencies and guides offer combined itineraries. When booking, check their registration in Cadastur, the Ministry of Tourism’s register, and for trails in Tijuca National Park choose guides authorized by the park.
Places mentioned
-
Paid South Zone Christ the Redeemer The statue on top of Corcovado, about 709 meters above sea level, inside Tijuca National Park. Go up by train, official van or on foot. See details -
PaidKids South Zone Sugarloaf Mountain and its cable car The cable car climbs from Praia Vermelha to Urca Hill and on to Sugarloaf, 396 meters above the bay. The sunset from the top is the most sought-after in town. See details -
Free access South Zone Mirante Dona Marta One of Rio's most beautiful viewpoints, on the way to Corcovado, with Sugarloaf and Botafogo Cove straight ahead. See details -
Free access North Zone Vista Chinesa A Chinese-style pavilion high in the Tijuca Forest, with views of the Lagoa, the South Zone and the sea. Its story begins with tea. See details
Tours
In this section
-
How to visit Christ the Redeemer Train, official van, authorized guide or on foot: step by step to the statue, with official prices checked in October 2026. Read guide -
Ferry to Niterói and Paquetá The ferry to Niterói and Paquetá from Praça XV: who runs it, what to see on the other side (Niemeyer's MAC, Paquetá Island) and what to check before you go. Read guide
Share:
Keep reading
Keep planning
- How to visit Christ the Redeemer Train, official van, authorized guide or on foot: step by step to the statue, with official prices checked in October 2026. Read guide
-
Rio de Janeiro viewpoints From the top of Corcovado to the Arpoador rock: where to see Rio from above, and when. Read guide - Rio de Janeiro 2-day itinerary The two postcard sights, the beach and the sunset, in one weekend. Read guide