Morro da Urca: A Stunning Vista Point in Rio
Ascend Morro da Urca for panoramic Rio views, a rainforest hike, and a memorable cable car ride to Sugarloaf Mountain.
Morro da Urca, rising 220 meters (720 feet) above sea level, is the first stop on the famous cable car journey to Sugarloaf Mountain. Located in the Urca neighborhood, it offers stunning views of Rio de Janeiro's coastline, including Copacabana and Ipanema beaches, the Christ the Redeemer statue atop Corcovado Mountain, and Guanabara Bay. Visitors can reach the summit via a well-maintained hiking trail that begins at Praia Vermelha (Red Beach), a peaceful beach known for its calm waters. The trail, called Pista Claudio Coutinho, winds through lush rainforest, offering glimpses of local flora and fauna, including monkeys and colorful birds. The hike takes about 30-40 minutes and is considered moderate in difficulty. At the summit, a spacious esplanade awaits, providing ample space to soak in the panoramic views. There are also restaurants, shops, and even a helipad offering tours to Christ the Redeemer. Morro da Urca is not just a stopover; it's a destination in itself, offering a blend of natural beauty, recreational activities, and stunning vistas. The Urca neighborhood, where Morro da Urca is located, is a historic and affluent area known for its traditional architecture and peaceful atmosphere. The neighborhood was officially formed in 1922 and is surrounded by the sea and the hills. It's considered one of the safest neighborhoods in Rio de Janeiro.
Local tips
- Hike up Morro da Urca for free access to the views and a chance to spot monkeys; then, you can purchase a separate ticket for the cable car to Sugarloaf Mountain.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for hiking if you plan to take the trail up.
- Visit during sunset for breathtaking views, but be prepared for larger crowds.
- Purchase cable car tickets online in advance to save time and potentially get a discount.
- Bring water and snacks, especially if you choose to hike, although there are vendors at the top.
A brief summary to Morro da Urca
- Rio de Janeiro, Urca, State of Rio de Janeiro, BR
Getting There
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Walking
From Praia Vermelha, locate the Pista Claudio Coutinho trail at the beach's north end, near the cable car station. Follow the well-maintained path, which includes some stairs, through the forest. The hike to the top of Morro da Urca takes approximately 30-40 minutes. This option is free.
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Public Transport
Take the Metro to Botafogo station. From the Botafogo Metro station, take bus line 513 and disembark at UNIRIO University. From there, it's a short walk to Praia Vermelha and the cable car station or the trailhead. Bus fare is approximately R$4.05.
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Cable Car
From anywhere in Urca, walk towards the cable car station located at Avenida Pasteur, 520. Purchase a ticket for the cable car, which includes access to both Morro da Urca and Sugarloaf Mountain. As of July 2025, the regular adult ticket price is R$160. The cable car ride to Morro da Urca is a short, scenic trip.
