Rio de Janeiro Sugarloaf Mountain and Urca Discovery Tour

On this Rio de Janeiro tour, start where it all began by exploring one of Rio’s quieter neighborhoods, Urca. You’ll discover the cozy streets of this district that just also happens to be where Rio de Janeiro was officially founded as a city. Take the subway to Botafogo so you can experience how locals get around Rio while also getting an orientation to the city.

Hopping off at Urca beach, wander along the coast to one of locals’ favourite hot spots in town: the Urca wall, or like Cariocas like to call it, the “mureta da Urca.” Here, grab a beer and you’ll get to taste Rio’s best range of stuffed empadinhas — pastries similar to a pie. Follow along the inner streets lined with some of Urca’s first houses. Then, it’s time to head to the Red Beach for a must-stop at the Claudio Coutinho walking path. This path leads adventurous hikers to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain — but don’t worry if you didn’t bring your hiking boots, you can take the cable car up instead.

On the journey to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain, stop first atop Urca Hill, where you’ll get your first breathtaking moment enjoying the Botafogo inlet right below us. Proceed to the second cable car for another ride to reach the summit of Sugarloaf Mountain. This is the perfect finale for your tour, as the stunning 360-degree view will show you why Rio is known as ‘the Marvelous City.’