Pan de Azúcar Coastal Trail (Costão do Pão de Açúcar), climbing on the Pan de Azúcar mountain.

The Sugarloaf Peak is quite representative because it is the gateway to the city of Rio de Janeiro, it is a historical, geographical and tourist landmark. This destination is essential for anyone visiting or living in the city. It is 396 meters high and can be climbed in many directions, some easier and some more difficult. There are no walks to the summit. The easiest way is called Costão do Pão de Açúcar.

The costão trail begins with a beautiful view of Guanabara Bay and the city of Niteroi and gradually other landscapes are shown. The road runs along the east face of the mountain and begins at the end of the Claudio Coutinho Trail.

The hike consists of extensions of land, stone ramps and some beautiful viewpoints, with a small climbing section. The route to the top needs a little more experience, so a guide who is also a climber is indispensable, since he has a part that needs ropes. If you already have experience in climbing, it is only a small stretch of 20 meters, considered basic level climbing, you will not have difficulties.

No previous mountaineering skills are required, just a lot of will and willpower to face the long climb over steep rocky terrain. A great opportunity for those who have never climbed to have a first contact with the sport.

After climbing, the route continues until you reach the Philosopher’s Stone viewpoint, which has a magnificent view of Copacabana Beach, Pedra da Gávea and Morro Dois Irmãos.

When you reach the top, you realize that all the effort was worth it, the place has a magnificent view; 360 degree view of the south of the city: Botafogo Cove, Flamengo Aterro, Cristo, Dois Irmãos Hill, Pedra da Gávea, Pedra Bonita, Copacabana, Tijuca Forest and much more than one of the most beautiful Postcards of Rio de Janeiro .

The descent is made by cable car to the Morro da Urca section that connects the two mountains. From this point, you have two options: go down the Morro da Urca trail or the cable car to Praia Vermelha (R $ 25.00 whole and R $ 12.50 half).

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History
In 1817, the 39-year-old English climber Henrietta Carstairs became the first person to climb the coast. In 1912 alone, the cable car was inaugurated, after just over three years of work and the load of 4,000 tons of equipment and construction material on top of the Urca and Pão de Açúcar hills.

RECOMMENDATIONS AND USEFUL INFORMATION
Avoid driving on weekends and holidays, getting a place can be quite complicated.
Avoid going after a rainy day.
Use only the planned routes, the use of shortcuts damages the vegetation. .
Collect the waste produced. Bring it back and place it in the trash bins. It helps preserve the environment.

When descending, be careful of the steepest sections.
Wear appropriate and comfortable shoes, preferably with non-slip / anti-shock soles.
Along the way there are many obstacles such as rocks, branches and roots, stay alert.
Avoid getting up or falling too late, or near dusk, lack of visibility can facilitate an accident.
Wear sturdy and comfortable clothing.

What to drink
It is always necessary to carry at least 1.5LT of water in the backpack. Put some fruits, cereal bars, even sandubas, sunscreen, glasses, camera. It is recommended to be well fed before starting the trail. Remember to bring a hat and insect repellent.

SECURITY EQUIPMENT REQUIRED
Ropes, strollers, helmets and carabiners.

DIFFICULTY LEVEL
Medium / Heavy

DURATION
About 3:30.