Source: David Berkowitz
Sugarloaf Mountain is a remarkable natural attraction located in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Rising about 1,299 feet, this mountain has been selected as a registered landmark because of its beauty and popularity. It offers spectacular views from the top of the mountain where you can reach through a cable car. Here are few things you should know before you plan a trip to this stunning place in Rio de Janeiro.
1. A Landmark of Rio de Janeiro
Source: WM 2014
Sugarloaf Mountain is known as the ‘Tourist Jewel’ of Rio de Janeiro because of its popularity among the tourists. A large number of people visit Rio de Janeiro every year and this place is a must visit sight after the famous ‘Christ’ in this wonderful city. This mountain is said to be a historical landmark because the installation of the tramway in 1912 made it very popular in the whole world. Not only this, the cable car system in the mountain was launched for the first time in Brazil and third in the world.
2. Origin of the Name
Source: Randal Schwartz
There are many variations associated with the origin of the name of the Sugarloaf Mountain. According to history during the sixteenth and seventeenth century, there was a peak of sugarcane cycle in Brazil. Sugar was transported to various parts in Europe. During the process, lumps of boiled and reduced sugar cane juice were filled in cone-shaped molds known as ‘sugarloaves’ which resembles this famous mountain.
3. Hollywood Star
Source: Phil Whitehouse
Sugarloaf Mountain is not only famous among tourists across the entire world but is also a popular landmark appeared in Hollywood movies. It was first featured in the blockbuster movie ‘Now, Voyager’ in 1942, then in ‘Moonraker’ in 1979 and also in the famous cartoon comedy ‘The Simpsons’.
4. Neighboring Mountains
Source: Mathieu Marquer
There are many attractive sites in the surroundings of Sugarloaf Mountain. The famous ones are Babylon Mountain and Morro de Urca Mountain. These two stunning sites are available to visit for public and also to rock climbers. There is also a play area for children and a restaurant offering delicious food at Morro de Urca Mountain.
5. Rock Climbing
Source: Paul Mannix
Do you love rock climbing? Sugarloaf Mountain not only offers you stunning views but also rock climbing facility. It is one of the most popular and largest rock climbing spot in the world. There are about 270 different routes to discover in the area. You can do it yourself or watch other people climbing this historic mountain.
6. Guanabara Bay
Source: Rodrigo Soldon
Guanabara Bay is the second largest bay in Brazil and is stretching in front of this popular mountain. Guanabara consists of more than 130 islands and also comprises of gorgeous scenery which you can see as you visit Sugarloaf Mountain. Not only this, you can hire cruise at the bay and enjoy stunning views of these mountains from the water.
7. Cable Car Ride
Source: Phil Whitehouse
Cable car is the main highlight of the Sugarloaf Mountain. There are two cable cars taking visitors to the top where they can enjoy the beautiful sights of Rio de Janeiro. You will also love the breathtaking views on the way while sitting in the cable cars which are enclosed by the panels made of glass.
Brazil is known for its stunning landscape and dynamic environment. Sugarloaf Mountain in Rio de Janeiro is the perfect historic landmark. People from all over the world visit this beautiful place every year and it continues to be one of the most explored places in Brazil.
Have a good trip and travel!