Located in the heart of Rio de Janeiro in Brazil, Sugarloaf is an iconic landmark, with its imposing silhouette and breathtaking panoramic views. Accessible by a unique cable car, which links the base of Morro da Babilônia to the summit of Morro da Urca and finally to the top of Sugarloaf, this excursion offers spectacular views of the city!
The cable car, with its second 700-metre section equipped with panoramic cabins, takes you on a vertiginous ascent to 396 metres above sea level. From here, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the beaches of Copacabana, Ipanema and Praia Vermelha, the Corcovado and the sparkling Atlantic.
At the top of Urca Hill, you’ll find Cocuruto, an exhibition space that tells the fascinating story of the Sugarloaf cable car. A little further on, the Guanabara Bay area offers a place to relax with restaurants, fast food stands, souvenir shops and a variety of services. Strolling along the pavement paths, you can spot marmoset monkeys, cane-billed toucans and maybe even hummingbirds! Morro da Urca is also home to a vast amphitheatre, a unique stage for special events, turning any occasion into a memorable evening.
Another point of interest is one of the two heliports most frequently used for panoramic flights over the city of Rio de Janeiro, located on the Morro da Urca itself. It’s a spectacular way to appreciate the splendour of the city from the air.
In the evening, Sugarloaf takes on a whole new dimension. The city lights twinkle like stars, the illuminated statue of Christ the Redeemer dominates the city, and the sea breeze blows gently. It’s the perfect time to relax with a caipirinha in hand and simply enjoy the beauty of Rio.
Sugarloaf is not just a destination for views. It’s also a symbol of Rio’s history and culture. The name “Sugar Loaf” is due to its shape, which resembles a traditional form of refined sugar packaging used in the 16th century. It’s a tangible reminder of the city’s rich past and dynamic evolution.
Whether you’re an adventurer in search of awe-inspiring views, a nature lover fascinated by the local wildlife, or a curious traveller seeking to understand Rio’s history and culture, Sugar Loaf is a must-see gem that lends the city its unrivalled charm.
Photo credits: Sébastien Walkowiak / Visit Latin America
