Pao de acucar cable car

The Sugarloaf Mountain cable car, inaugurated in 1912, is one of the oldest cable cars in the world and takes visitors to the top of the iconic Rio landmark.

About this subject

Inaugurated on October 27, 1912, the Sugarloaf Mountain cable car was the first aerial tramway in Brazil and one of the oldest in the world. The project was conceived by engineer Augusto Ferreira Ramos and connects Praia Vermelha to Morro da Urca and then to Sugarloaf Mountain. Each cabin holds 65 passengers and travels a 1,400-meter route, reaching a maximum height of 395 meters. The original system was replaced in 1973 with more modern cabins, but the trip retains its classic charm.

Beyond being a must-see tourist attraction, the cable car is an icon of Brazilian engineering. During construction, materials and workers were transported by improvised cranes, as the area was difficult to access. The view from the top encompasses Guanabara Bay, Christ the Redeemer, and the beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema. In 1979, the cable car served as the setting for the James Bond film Moonraker, where Bond and Jaws fight inside a cabin.

Sugarloaf Mountain is a gneiss monolith approximately 600 million years old, protected as a natural monument. The cable car receives over 1.5 million visitors annually. On clear days, you can see ships in Rio's harbor and even the Serra dos Órgãos mountain range, more than 60 kilometers away. The experience also includes a panoramic walkway and souvenir shops at the top.

Frequently Asked Questions

How high is Sugarloaf Mountain?

Sugarloaf Mountain is 396 meters tall. Together with Morro da Urca, it forms the cable car complex.

How long does the cable car ride take?

The full ride, including both stops, takes about 20 minutes. It is recommended to allow at least 1 hour to enjoy the views.

Does the cable car operate at night?

Yes, it operates until 9 PM (summer) or 8 PM (winter). The sunset view from the top is especially famous.