Two Brothers Hill

🏞️ Two Brothers Hill Trail

History, Nature, Culture and a Breathtaking View in the Heart of Rio

The Morro Dois Irmãos Trail is one of the most beloved and symbolic trails in Rio de Janeiro. Located in the Leblon neighborhood, it offers one of the most incredible views of the city , revealing from above the coastline of the South Zone, Rocinha, Vidigal, Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas and Corcovado in the background, on the other side the imposing Pedra da Gávea, beach and neighborhood of São Conrado.

🗺️ Tour Itinerary

Start your day by heading to Vidigal , the starting point for the trail. From there, take a motorbike taxi or van (7.00 per person to go up and 7.00 to go down) for a unique experience of getting to know one of Rio's iconic favelas and its daily life. Either by motorbike or van, but most people prefer to go by motorbike to the top of the community (near the football field), where the hike begins. There is a fee at the entrance to the trail (10.00 per person or 1kg of non-perishable food).

The moderate trail, with some steep climbs, is about 1.5 km long and takes about 50 minutes to reach the summit. It is well marked and surrounded by the nature of the Penhasco Dois Irmãos Municipal Natural Park. During the trail, you will initially pass through reforested areas, through stretches of Atlantic Forest and incredible natural viewpoints, which offer strategic stops to rest and enjoy the view. Although it is not a long hike, it is mandatory to bring water as with any physical activity. Stop whenever you need to and, with luck, you may come across some marmosets along the way ( do not feed the animals ). They are very curious and may approach you, but they are very friendly and accustomed to the presence of people.

After about 20 minutes we arrived at the first viewpoint, where we could see a good part of Rocinha, the largest favela in Rio, with over 150,000 inhabitants, the green of the Tijuca Forest, to the left we have Pedra Bonita, which is also known for hang-gliding and paragliding, the imposing Pedra da Gávea and the São Conrado neighborhood, take the opportunity to catch your breath and don't forget to hydrate yourself. Just above we have another viewpoint, this one with a more panoramic view than we saw at the first one and now we have the ocean, this place was the strategic point for drug traffickers to be able to see the action in Rocinha, but fortunately both favelas are pacified and very popular for tourism, such as favela tours and parties.

We continue along a less steep section, a place where it is easier to find marmosets and where the previously reforested vegetation becomes the natural vegetation of the region. We arrive at the steepest part of the trail. Be careful, especially if it rained the day before or the day before, as it can be very slippery.

The next viewpoint also allows us to see Christ the Redeemer and almost the entire Rocinha favela, which was considered the largest favela in Latin America. We can also see some containment screens, which protect and hold the rocks so that they do not fall on the houses on the hillside. It is cool to see that this was done before anything happened. From here it is another 20 minutes to reach the top.

After another climb, we arrive at another viewpoint, this one smaller, but with an incredible view of the entire Rocinha favela, the neighborhood and beach of São Conrado, Pedra da Gávea and Christ the Redeemer, the feeling that you are on top of the favela.

Reaching the top of Morro Dois Irmãos (533m above sea level) is rewarded with one of the most spectacular views of the city : Corcovado, Pedra da Gávea, Rocinha, Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas, Ipanema, Leblon and the blue sea are all within your field of vision. A picture-postcard setting!

And if you want to combine adventure, nature with a breathtaking sunrise or sunset, the Morro Dois Irmãos Trail is the perfect destination!

🌄 About the trail

• Starting point: Vidigal Community (Vidigal Square)

• Access: Motorcycle taxi or van to the football field at the top of the hill

• Trail duration: Approximately 1 hour climb (moderate level)

• Length: Approximately 1.5 km

• Altitude: 533 meters

🧭 Curiosities and history:

• Morro Dois Irmãos is formed by two rocky peaks, the tallest of which (the bigger brother) is the one you visit on the trail, giving a special touch to the landscape of Rio — especially seen from Leblon and Ipanema.

• The trail passes through the Dois Irmãos Municipal Natural Park , a preservation area with native vegetation.

• The community of Vidigal , where access to the trail begins, has been transformed into a point of cultural effervescence, with bars, hostels, parties, artistic initiatives and sustainable tourism.

• The two hills are considered a natural symbol of the South Zone and appear in several photos, paintings and even album covers — such as the classic “Acabou Chorare”, by Novos Baianos, artists such as Chico Buarque and Caetano Veloso have also mentioned or portrayed the hills in their works.

• The place was once considered a risk area, but today it receives tourists from all over the world and residents of Rio in search of nature and culture.

🍽️ Post-trail – Where to eat and relax in Vidigal

After the trail, there's nothing better than recharging your batteries. Vidigal has several places with good food, drinks and a privileged view of the sea.

🥗 Tips on places to eat and enjoy:

• Bar da Laje – One of the most famous bars in Vidigal, with feijoada on weekends, refreshing drinks and an incredible view of the sunset. Live music and a high-spirited vibe.

• Mirante do Arvrão – Restaurant/bar with charming facilities and a sensational viewpoint. Ideal for lunch or an afternoon coffee with a view.

• Hostel Mirante Vidigal – Serves breakfast and quick meals, with a cozy atmosphere and cool soundtrack.

  
  

🎶 Extend the walk

If you still have energy, enjoy the cultural atmosphere of Vidigal! You can:

• Enjoy a cinematic sunset from the viewpoints

• Explore the community's colorful little streets

• Discover social projects, art galleries or urban graffiti

• And, who knows, enjoy a local party or samba circle , Bar da Laje, Mirante do Arvrão (especially on weekends)

⚠️ Tips to make the most of it:

✅ Hire a guide – Local guides know points of interest and can offer technical support in difficult sections. We share information about the fauna, flora and history of the place, making the experience even more enriching. In case of any problem, a trained guide knows what to do and can provide first aid.

✅ Arrive early , especially on weekends, to avoid strong sun and crowds at the summit.

✅ Bring water, sunscreen and a light snack

✅ Wear comfortable sneakers and light clothing

✅ If you can, go with a local guide and learn more about the history of the region

✅ And don't forget your camera: you'll want to record every moment!

✅ The trail is safe, but it is recommended to go with a guide or in a group if it is your first time.

✅ Respect the community and the environment — conscious tourism is everything!

🌟 A complete tour in Rio

The Morro Dois Irmãos Trail is more than just a trail: it’s an experience that connects you with the soul of Rio. A mix of wild nature, urban culture and panoramic beauty, it’s ideal for those looking for an unforgettable day in the marvelous city.