I say Rio, you say… The giant Jesus statue? Probably? Or the beaches. Maybe we’re different! 😂
Of course, when you’re in this famous Brazilian city, what’s up there on your list? The climb up to Christ the Redeemer. And, yes, by that, I mean climbing! If you can (and I understand this isn’t an option for everybody), don’t get the bus up, or the tempting train, but try the hike. I cannot stress enough how worth it this is!
My dad had visited Brazil a couple of years earlier, and he told me to walk up. I didn’t even know that was an option, most of the info I’d seen was saying to take the bus, or selling private taxis.
I walked from my hotel in Copacabana to Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon, which was a bit of a hike in itself! But it was a lovely walk by the water, with views of the mountain, and signs teasing me with the hopes of wild capybaras.
From the lagoon I continued on to Parque Lage, this is the park where the trail up Corcovado begins. Admittedly, I embarrassed myself by walking straight past the entrance, but it is only a small hut in the corner.
(I’d also embarrassed myself 15 minutes earlier when a monkey stole my juice carton. In front of everyone. Thanks Abu!)
Two park rangers were there, and I had to fill in a form with my name, number and time I started the trek… whiiiich did make me wonder what I was getting myself into!
(Spoiler alert: I was getting myself into a dream of an adventure!)
I started walking up, and there wasn’t another soul in sight. As much as I was delighted with this, it did make me wonder for a whole 2 minutes if it was going to be really difficult, and my dad was just playing a joke on me.
Within minutes, I spotted a little monkey who hadn’t spotted me, doubt he was expecting anyone! I saw a couple more monkeys along the way, agoutis, a hummingbird and
*drum roll, please*
SLOTHS! There was this grey ball blocking the path ahead of me, I had no idea what I was looking at. Was it even alive? Another person had just passed and told me they were a pair of sloths. I figured I was safe enough, surely I’m faster than a sloth? 🤔 I crouched down to investigate further. And then I saw those unmistakable claws, and then a creepy little face! I couldn’t believe it, I still can’t. It was amazing. Just that alone made this climb worth it!
Because, let’s be real, I was only visiting Christ Redeemer because you kinda have to, y’know? Once you get up there, it’s nothing spectacular, there’s no surprises, you already know what it looks like, and it’s crowded. Had I taken the bus up, I wouldn’t have been particularly impressed, but the Corcovado Trail made it one of the highlights of my trip to Rio de Janeiro! And I got to try some açaí when I was up there too, just if you do – beware of the mischievous monkeys (and coatis!)
Some Practical Info:
The trail takes about 3 hours. It’s hot and sweaty. Please wear good shoes, because you have to cross (very small) rivers, and climb up a couple of big rocks, and maybe over tree trunks. However, the place is well maintained so don’t worry too much!
Don’t bring valuables with you. There were a few signposts warning that pickpockets target tourists up here.
Bring plenty of water with you! You’ll drink it all, and it’s expensive inside!
Entry price to Cristo Redentor is approximately $20 USD.
Two park rangers were there, and I had to fill in a form with my name, number and time I started the trek… whiiiich did make me wonder what I was getting myself into!
