Duque de Caxias Fort, Zona Da Mata Travel Guide

4.8 (971)

Explore a historic fort with stunning views of Copacabana, Sugarloaf Mountain, and the Atlantic coastline in Rio de Janeiro.

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Duque de Caxias Fort

Forte Duque de Caxias, also known as Forte do Leme, is a historic fort located at the eastern end of Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro. Built in 1779, the fort offers visitors a glimpse into Brazil's military history and provides stunning panoramic views of Copacabana Beach, Sugarloaf Mountain, and Guanabara Bay.

A brief summary to Duque de Caxias Fort

Praça Alm. Júlio de Noronha, s/n, Rio de Janeiro, Leme, State of Rio de Janeiro, 22010-020, BR
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Tuesday 9:30 am-4 pm
Wednesday 9:30 am-4 pm
Thursday 9:30 am-4 pm
Friday 9:30 am-4 pm
Saturday 9:30 am-4 pm
Sunday 9:30 am-4 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Duque de Caxias Fort.

Wear comfortable shoes for the 20-minute hike up to the fort.
Bring water and sunscreen, as it can get hot during the hike.
Bring cash for the entrance fee and any purchases at the small bar at the top.
Keep an eye out for monkeys along the trail, but do not feed them.

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Getting There

Walking

From the eastern end of Copacabana Beach in Leme, the entrance to the trail leading up to Forte Duque de Caxias is located within a military area. The 800-meter hike up Morro do Leme takes approximately 20 minutes. Follow the well-maintained cobblestone path.
Public Transport

From Cardeal Arcoverde Metro Station, take a bus (190, 472, or 523) to Leme at the end of Copacabana Beach. Alternatively, walk along Avenida Atlântica to Praça Alm. Júlio de Noronha. The fort entrance is visible from the promenade. Bus fare is approximately R$4.05.
Taxi/Ride-Share

From Copacabana, a taxi or ride-share to the entrance of Forte Duque de Caxias at Praça Alm. Júlio de Noronha will cost approximately R$20-30. The ride takes about 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic.

Discover more about Duque de Caxias Fort

Located in the Leme neighborhood of Rio de Janeiro, Forte Duque de Caxias is a captivating fortress with a rich history. Constructed in 1779 as Fort of the Guard, it was part of the city's original defense strategy. The fort played a role in significant historical events, including revolts in 1922 and 1924. In 1935, it was renamed Forte Duque de Caxias.Visitors can explore the fort's architecture, which reflects early 20th-century military design with its sharp corners and thick walls. The fort also houses historical artifacts related to the city. The site provides panoramic views of Copacabana Beach, Sugarloaf Mountain, and the surrounding coastline. The fort is located within a protected area of the Atlantic Forest, offering visitors the chance to see local wildlife, including monkeys.To reach the fort, visitors can take a scenic 800-meter hike up Morro do Leme, a cobblestone path that should take about 20 minutes. Along the way, there are fifteen Stations of the Cross.