Although this hike is classed as one of the most challenging in the city, it is definitely the most epic, offering spectacular views of Rio and attracting Insta enthusiasts from worldwide for the jaw-dropping pictures.

This hike was a super big achievement for me and definitely the highlight of my trip in Rio.

Let me give you a quick insight into my experience..

So the previous night I met a group of people in the hostel and we decided to go to a street party. It was an awesome night and one Capiriniha turned into several. The next day I woke up early to the sound of my alarm- eugh was it that time already? I was still in my clothes from the previous night on the top bunk bed of a 8-bed dorm. I attempted to climb down from the bunk bed to go to the bathroom and due to my fragile state, I could not manage to turn around so instead I attempted to go down the ladders frontwards…bad idea!  My pyjama shorts became caught on the ladder and unknowingly I jumped down to the floor, ripped my shorts and fell flat on my face…ouch! First tragedy of the day.

Realising how late it was, I quickly got dressed and ran to the local shop to grab some water ready to go on the hike. It was my first week in Brazil and I stupidly hadn’t learnt a word of Portuguese so I ended up purchasing 3 huge bottles of sparkling water rather than still. eugh again!

I finally got back to the hostel and took an uber to the metro station to meet my guide and group to go on the hike. After spending the first 1 hour of the journey being violently sick…I finally began to slowly make some sort of recovery and we began the hike… (Top tip- caipirinhas are very strong and give you bad hangovers-do not drink and climb!)

When I had finally sweated out every droplet of caipirinha from my body and moaned a lot… I made it to the summit and wow it was worth the blood…sweat and tears (nearly)!

Read on to find the ‘ins and out’ about the hike and not just my dramatic morning.  

Where is it located?

It is in the Tijuca forest in the Barra da Tijuca neighbourhood, Rio de Janerio.

How high is it?

It begins at sea level and reaches 844 metres (2,769 ft).

How difficult is it?

This hike is known as one of the most challenging in Rio and for a good reason… it is difficult and I probably found it more challenging because of my fragile state.

The majority of the hike is an uphill trail- a mixture of dirt paths and some rocky sections which require you to use hands and knees to climb. As you continue the climb, you will reach an open area called the ‘Mirante da Laje’. From here you can see the face of the rock and you are more than half way at this point.

The next part is the most challenging- the Carrasqueira. It is a 35m uphill rock face which requires you to scale in order to reach the summit. Without a guide you would need to free climb this or with a guide they will have ropes to assist you. I found it a moderate challenge and did witness many hikers struggling to climb without ropes. There are many routes up it so you should try and find the easiest for you.

I think it is more difficult to come down the Carrasquiera than to climb up so be prepared.

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How much does it cost?

There is no entrance fee so if you choose to do it alone it is free. If you pay for a guide, this will be your only cost. I organised to climb with an experienced guide who I found on Instagram. Here is a link to his page. He is a great guy and offers super affordable prices for the climb. The price is 120 reals per person which is approximately £17.00 or $20 dollars.

Can I do it without a guide?

Yes of course and lots of people choose to go without one, however I would personally not recommend unless you are a good climber. The hike itself is fine to do alone, but the climbing element (the Carrasqueira) would be difficult without ropes and I am grateful I had the guide who provided ropes and appropriate equipment.

How to get there?

The hike begins at the end of a gated road, just outside of the “Praça Prof Velho da Silva” roundabout in the Barra da Tijuca neighbourhood.

If you’re starting in Rio, the best option is to take the yellow line on the metro/subway until Jardim Oceânico and either walk to the start of the hike or take a uber. It is around 1.5 miles from the metro stop to the start of the trail.  We met at this line and took the metro and then walked to the start and it was easy and simple.

You can also catch the buses numbers #302 and #557 which will both leave you a short distance away and from there you can walk to the start.

When you reach the sign, you should go to the little hut and write down your information (date, time, name, phone number, address, number in group). The park warden keeps a record of who is entering for safety and security. The gate is open from 8.00 am – 6.00pm.

How long does it take?

The total distance is 3.2m/5.2km and will take around 4/5 hours roundtrip. This was how long we spent however this will differ depending on how long you take to climb up/down and how long you spend enjoying the views.

What to take?  Important points

• Hiking boots or trainers
• Water- bring lots of it!
• Food and snacks
• Be prepared with sun cream and also a thin rain jacket. The weather can change easily and it may be breezy on the top.
• Camera/phone. A drone would also be awesome to capture some great shots/videos!
• Be careful taking photos. Yes the picture below looks very close but it is more of an illusion. Remember your life is more precious than a picture!

So.. to conclude. If you want a physical challenge and want to see the magnificent views of Rio, climb Pedra De Gavea.

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If you have any questions about hiking Pedra De Gavea or any suggestions of additional information you would like to read about this hike, please comment below.