Morro Da Urca Hike and Lookout
A hike up the Morro Da Urca trail will reward you with spectacular views and more
A visit to Rio de Janeiro does not have to be all about the beach, sunbathing or the Carnival. There are beautiful vistas and historical sites to see too! Morro Da Urca Hike and Lookout is one that you have to try.
The trail up Morro Da Urca starts about 300 meters down the Pista Cláudio Coutinho Walking Trail near Praia Vermelha. The start of the trail is rather discrete, so keep your eyes peeled or you may miss it! There is, however, a sign post to mark the spot. The trail does require some fitness and a little intuition to follow to the top of Morro Da Urca. In some places trees may obscure the trail and there are a few forks which lead nowhere. It is rather a steep climb through the forests, so be sure to bring plenty of water and wear comfortable walking shoes instead of sandals. Even the dead ends are worth exploring for the views of Rio de Janeiro that they present.
The trail deposits you right at the door of the lookout on top of Morro Da Urca. This is also the platform between the lower and upper cable cars that go to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain. If you wish you can purchase a one way ticket for the cable car ride down or you can even purchase a ticket to ride up to the top of Sugarloaf. There are giftshops to explore and places to take a break and get something to eat.
The view from the top of Morro Da Urca is certainly something to be remembered. You can see Christ the Redeemer on top of Corcovado and a beautiful section of Rio de Janeiro's Botafogo and Flamengo Beaches. Make sure that you spend some time taking in the view.
Aside from the lovely views and less expensive access to the top of Sugar Loaf, you can see some of the fauna and flora of Brazil up close and personal. Marmosets, birds and butterflies are plentiful and the antics of the little monkeys make for great climbing entertainment.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: NoOpen Now
Regular Hours:
Hours may be subject to change. Please verify on the official website.
- Monday: 8:00 am - 9:00 pm
- Tuesday: 8:00 am - 9:00 pm
- Wednesday: 8:00 am - 9:00 pm
- Thursday: 8:00 am - 9:00 pm
- Friday: 8:00 am - 9:00 pm
- Saturday: 8:00 am - 9:00 pm
- Sunday: 8:00 am - 9:00 pm
Category: Hiking Local Flavor
Address:
Avenida Pasteur, 520
Urca
Rio de Janeiro - RJ 22290-240
Brazil
Phone: +55 21 2542-1641
Reviews
Elle E. Feb-10-2021
Ambiance: 10 out of 10; Staff: 4 out of 5; Price: $ out of $$$$. Gorgeous place, the views were amazing and the people were just as exceptional. We were... Read More
Ambiance: 10 out of 10;
Staff: 4 out of 5;
Price: $ out of $$$$.
Gorgeous place, the views were amazing and the people were just as exceptional. We were...Dee B. Apr-23-2019
The views of this place spectacular. Two cable cars but be prepared to stand inside as well as being crowded. The views were breathtaking. So many spots to... Read More
The views of this place spectacular. Two cable cars but be prepared to stand inside as well as being crowded. The views were breathtaking. So many spots to...Ash C. Aug-09-2019
Accommodations near Morro Da Urca:
Directions
| Metro and Bus Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Line 1 - Orange or Line 2 Green | Botafogo | 4 Minutes |
How to get to Morro Da Urca by Metro and Bus
Ride the Metro to Botafogo Station. Take the Rua Voluntarios da Patria exit and catch City Bus #513 at the stop northbound on Rua Nelson Mandela just south of the corner of Rua Voluntarios da Patria (right across the street from the Metro exit). This bus will require a separate cash fare. Ride the bus to the 3rd and last stop on Av. Pasteur. Exit the bus and continue east on Av. Pasteur and keep left through the parking lot on the north side of Prace Beneral Tiburcio. Continue walking through the parking lot straight towards Sugar Loaf Mountain until you see the sign for the Pista Cláudio Coutinho walking trail. The trail up to the top of Morro Da Urca branches off about 400 metres (5 minutes walk) past this sign. There is a sign post marking the start of the hiking trail up to the lookout.
Photo Gallery
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Start of the trail up to Morro Da Urca lookout cc licensed photo by Rogério Zgiet -
Panoramic view from Morro Da Urca cc licensed photo by Gustavo Rosadas -
View towards Corcovado cc licensed photo by Mauricio Lima 
Photo Credit: Yelp 
Photo Credit: Yelp 
Photo Credit: Yelp
