Monumento Natural dos Morros do Pão de Açúcar e da Urca

The Monumento Natural dos Morros do Pão de Açúcar e da Urca is a protected natural monument in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, encompassing the famous Sugarloaf Mountain and the adjoining Urca Hill.

What to Expect

You will see two distinct granite peaks that form one of Rio de Janeiro’s most recognizable landmarks, alongside the Christ the Redeemer statue. This complex of hills, with an estimated geological history of 500 million years, frames the entrance to Guanabara Bay. You can walk along the Claudio Coutinho path, which provides access to trails and rock climbing routes on both hills. The area offers panoramic views of the city and the bay.

Practical Information

The monument is located in the Urca neighborhood at Pista Claudio Coutinho, s/n. You can access the area for free via the Claudio Coutinho path, which is situated next to the Escola de Comando e Estado Maior do Exército (ECEME) on Praça General Tibúrcio, near Praia Vermelha. The entrance to the path is open daily.

History & Significance

The site was designated a natural monument to protect the Sugarloaf Mountain (Morro do Pão de Açúcar) and Urca Hill (Morro da Urca). These peaks are not only major tourist attractions but also significant geological formations, representing some of the oldest rock structures in the region.