Pão de Açucar

Pão de Açucar is one of most recognized natural formations on the planet. The name has two possible origins; it resembles the metal mold used to refine sugar cane juice (hence “Sugar Loaf,” but the name may also be from a Tamoyan Indian word “Pau-nh-Açuquá” meaning “high, pointed hill.” Regardless of the name, Pão de Açucar completes the beautiful picturesque scene of Guanabara Bay and is home to some Brazilian wildlife as well.

A cable car system is available to ascend the mountain, which runs daily every 30 minutes from 8 a.m.- 10 p.m. and costs $R30. Sunset is a great time to go, but the views during the daytime are breathtaking as well. The car first stops at Morro da Urca, where you can go to a snack bar, restaurant, visit the shops or even catch a concert occasionally in the theater. You can then proceed to the summit of Sugar Loaf for an even better view of the city. For the more adventurous people, ascending by rock climbing is available, but the cable car system is used by Brazilians and tourists alike. To arrive at the base of the mountain, you can take a public bus or taxi to Urca or Praia Vermelha (Red Beach).