Sugarloaf Cable Car – History, Fun Facts, and Tips for Your Visit

guiarodrigoindio
Nov 13
2 min read

The Sugarloaf Cable Car is one of the most iconic landmarks in the world and a must-do experience for anyone visiting Rio de Janeiro. Beyond offering breathtaking views, it carries over a century of history and countless fascinating facts.

History of the Sugarloaf Cable Car

Inaugurated on October 27, 1912, the cable car was the third in the world and the first in Brazil. The project was conceived by Brazilian engineer Augusto Ferreira Ramos, who dreamed of connecting Morro da Urca to Sugarloaf Mountain.

At the time, it was considered an engineering challenge, as the country had no technology to build cables and towers of that scale. The components were imported from Germany, and the cable car became a landmark of innovation in Latin America.

Over the years, the system has undergone several modernizations while preserving its history and tradition, becoming the safe, comfortable, and modern attraction we know today.

Fun Facts about the Sugarloaf Cable Car

It has been featured in films, including the classic James Bond movie “Moonraker”.
The name “Sugarloaf” comes from the sugar trade era, when blocks of sugar were molded into conical shapes called “pães de açúcar” (sugarloaves).
The cable car ride has two stages: the first goes from the station at Praia Vermelha to Morro da Urca (220 meters), and the second continues to Sugarloaf Mountain (396 meters).
The sunset viewed from Sugarloaf is considered one of the most beautiful in the world.
In addition to the scenery, visitors can spot falcons, marmosets, lizards, and the rich fauna of the Atlantic Forest.

Things to Do at the Sugarloaf Cable Car

✔️ Take the cable car in two stages: first to Morro da Urca and then up to Sugarloaf Mountain.

✔️ Enjoy the incredible viewpoints, with panoramic views of Guanabara Bay, Christ the Redeemer, Copacabana, Ipanema, Niterói, and much more.

✔️ Explore the Pista Cláudio Coutinho Trail, a light walk at the base of the hill.

✔️ Watch the unforgettable sunset from the top of Sugarloaf.

✔️ Visit the restaurants, bars, and shops available at Morro da Urca and the summit.

✔️ On select dates, enjoy events, parties, and live shows at Morro da Urca.

Important Tips for Your Visit:

Purchase tickets online in advance, especially during peak season.
Best times to visit: in the morning for shorter lines, or late afternoon to catch the sunset.
Bring water, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a camera (or fully charged phone).
If you like, hike up Morro da Urca via the Pista Cláudio Coutinho Trail (an easy 25-minute climb). Then, you only need to buy a ticket for the second cable car segment to Sugarloaf.
Avoid cloudy or rainy days, as the views can be compromised.

An Unforgettable Experience in Rio de Janeiro

The Sugarloaf Cable Car is more than just a tourist attraction—it’s an immersion in Rio’s natural beauty, history, and culture. It’s a must-do activity for first-time visitors as well as for those who are already in love with the Marvelous City.