About this experience
On the western zone of Rio de Janeiro an imposing plateau of rock called Pedra da Gávea(The Gávea Stone). It is the largest monolith in South America, as well as the highest coastal monolith in the world and is perfect for an adventurous hike.
According to some local legends the Pedra da Gávea is a visiting place for extra-terrestrials as well as being a portal to other dimensions. The trail begins in Barra da Tijuca and passes through the Atlantic Rain Forest.
Hikers will need to keep their eyes peeled for small mammals and birds which inhabit the tree tops. The trail culminates at the summit of Pedra da Gávea, 844 meters above sea level, with the best views in Rio de Janeiro.
From the top of Pedra da Gávea there are breath taking views of all of Rio’s beaches, lagoons, Sugar Loaf and overlooking Christ the Redeemer in the distance.
At a glance
- Duration: 6 hr
What is included
- Take advantage of special discounts when booking for groups of 4 or more!
- Professional accredited climbing guide
- The tour starts in the morning, so you can make the most of your day.
- Your guide will be happy to take photos during the tour and save them directly to your phone
- All necessary climbing equipment
Not included
- Food and drinks are not included
Itinerary and highlights
The Pedra da Gávea trail is one of the most popular and challenging hiking trails in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. It is a favorite among adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts due to its stunning views and thrilling ascent.
As hikers ascend, they will encounter various terrains, including steep slopes, rocky sections, and occasional scrambling. The trail requires a moderate to high level of fitness, as some parts can be physically demanding. It is essential to wear sturdy hiking shoes, bring plenty of water, and pack some snacks for sustenance.
One of the highlights of the Pedra da Gávea trail is the Carrasqueira, a challenging rock climbing section that requires careful maneuvering. Ropes and climbing equipments are provided to assist hikers in this steep and exposed part of the trail. As you climb higher, the views become increasingly breathtaking, offering panoramic vistas of the city, the coastline, and the surrounding mountains.
After a few hours of hiking, the trail reaches the summit of Pedra da Gávea, where hikers are rewarded with a sense of accomplishment and an awe-inspiring 360-degree view. On a clear day, you can see landmarks such as the Christ the Redeemer statue, Sugarloaf Mountain, and the Tijuca Forest National Park.
The journey back follows the same path, so it's essential to plan your hike with enough time to descend safely before sunset. Overall, the Pedra da Gávea trail promises an unforgettable adventure for those seeking a challenging hike and stunning vistas of Rio de Janeiro's natural beauty. However, it is crucial to hike responsibly, follow trail rules, and respect the environment to ensure the preservation of this fantastic natural attraction for future generations.
Meeting and pickup information
- We meet in Restaurant Called - Point da Meire Café
Languages and tickets
- Portuguese — Guide
- English — Guide
- Spanish — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Rio Natural Ecotourism
Accessibility and practical details
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Available tour options
- Pedra da Gávea Hiking Tour: The Pedra da Gávea trail is one of the most challenging hiking trails in Rio de Janeiro. Meeting Point : Meet our guide at the meeting point. You will receive all details about how to get there and where to meet the guide!
Traveller reviews and photos
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