Doni Clemons
The best time to visit Pão de Açúcar/Sugarloaf is debateable. Some people prefer sunset, others early morning, others in the afternoon when there are likely to be less clouds on a clear day, still others at night when there are less crowds. One thing is certain, the view will be magical. Even those that have had the misfortune of going on a cloudy day have found the experience rewarding and have the photos to prove it. Pão de Açúcar is the huge 396 meter (1,299 ft) rounded mountain peak you see raised above Guanabara Bay. To arrive to the top, first visitors take a cable car to the smaller peak, Morro da Urca, then another cable car to Pão de Açúcar. The total trip costs R$62. The added benefit of taking in 360 degree views of Rio de Janeiro from this location is the spaciousness of the viewing deck. You can even grab a beer or caipirinha once you get to the top!
