Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Everything you Need to Know

Christ the Redeemer Important Details:

Address: Parque Nacional da Tijuca, Alto da Boa Vista, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (Google Maps)
Hours: Monday – Sunday, 8am – 7pm
Cost of Entrance: R$79 (approximately $14 USD)
Recommended Time: 2 – 4 hours
How to Arrive: By car, bus or train
Distance from Rio de Janeiro City Center: 6 km / 3.7 miles
Ideal Month(s) To Visit: April – October

If you’re traveling to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, a visit to Christ the Redeemer is a must. The iconic statue, referred to as Cristo Redentor in Portuguese, stands 98 feet tall on top of Corcovado Mountain, offering the best panoramic views of the city. This article covers everything you need to know to make the most of your visit to Christ the Redeemer, including how to get there, the history of the statue, things to do and see, safety tips, and more.

Getting to Christ the Redeemer

There are several ways to reach Christ the Redeemer, including taking the train, a van, a taxi, or even hiking. The train is the most popular option, as it offers stunning views of Tijuca Forest and takes you all the way to the top. However, the train can be crowded, especially during peak hours (make sure to purchase your tickets online in advance!). Vans and taxis are also available, and they offer more flexibility in terms of schedule and routes. Hiking is a great option for those who want to explore Tijuca Forest and its trails. The most popular trail is the Paineiras Trail, which starts from Rio’s Botanical Garden and offers beautiful views of the city and the statue.

History of Christ the Redeemer

Christ the Redeemer was built in 1931 and has since become one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world. The statue is 98 feet tall and weighs approximately 635 metric tons (almost 1.4m lbs!). It was designed by the Brazilian engineer Heitor da Silva Costa and French sculptor Paul Landowski. The statue is made of reinforced concrete and soapstone, and it’s covered with thousands of triangular tiles. It took nine years to build, and it’s considered one of the greatest engineering feats of the 20th century. When you think of Rio de Janeiro (or even Brazil in general), a view of Christ the Redeemer most likely comes to mind.

Visiting Christ the Redeemer

Christ the Redeemer is located on the highest point in Rio de Janeiro. It sits on top of Corcovado Mountain. When you arrive at the top, you’ll be greeted by incredible views of the city and the surrounding landscape. There are several things to do and see at the statue, including taking photos, exploring the observation deck, learning about the history of the statue from guides, and looking through the on-site museum. During peak season and on the weekend, the statue gets crowded, especially during busy hours.. It’s best to visit Christ the Redeemer early in the day during the week. You can buy tickets for the train and Christ the Redeemer in advance online here.

Safety at Christ the Redeemer

Christ the Redeemer is generally safe, but there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit. Keep an eye on your belongings, as pickpocketing can occur. The weather can also be unpredictable (from hot and sunny to rainy), so bring appropriate clothing and sunscreen. Finally, if you’re hiking, make sure to go in a group, bring water, and stay on marked trails.

Hiking trails in Tijuca Forest to arrive at Christ the Redeemer

If you’re an adventurous traveler, Tijuca Forest is the largest urban forest in the world, and it’s home to several hiking trails that offer unique views of Rio de Janeiro. The Paineiras Trail is the most popular hike and takes you all the way to the top of Christ the Redeemer. Other trails in Tijuca Forest offer different views and experiences, such as the Corcovado Trail and the Vista Chinesa Trail. Visitors can do the trails without a guide, but if it’s your first time visiting Rio de Janeiro it’s recommended you hike with a guide for safety reasons.

Things to do near Christ the Redeemer

If you have some extra time in the area, there are several other attractions and activities to experience near Christ the Redeemer. Some of the more popular options include: the Rio de Janeiro Botanical Garden (where the hiking trail to Christ the Redeemer stars), the Selaron Steps (located in Lapa), and the Santa Teresa neighborhood. There are also restaurants and bars in the area (especially in Santa Teresa) where you can try local cuisine and amazing drinks.

Conclusion

Visiting Christ the Redeemer is one of the most unforgettable experiences that Rio de Janeiro has to offer, so put it on your bucket list. From its breathtaking views to its interesting history and cultural significance, it is truly a wonder of the world. Plan your trip in advance, bring comfortable shoes, and prepare for the weather.

Christ the Redeemer FAQs

What is the best time to visit Christ the Redeemer?

The best time to visit Christ the Redeemer is during the dry season (May to October). During this time, you’ll be able to enjoy clear skies and comfortable temperatures. Keep in mind this is also peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices. It’s recommended that you book your tour in advance online, and visit Christ the Redeemer in the morning during the week.

How long does it take to get to the top of Christ the Redeemer?

It takes approximately 20 minutes to reach the top of Christ the Redeemer via the train, or around 45 minutes to an hour if you hike through the Tijuca Forest. Wait times for the train can be long, especially during peak tourist season. It’s recommended that you buy tickets for the train and Christ the Redeemer in advance online here.

Can you visit Christ the Redeemer at night?

Yes, you can visit Christ the Redeemer at night, but the experience is different from during the day. The monument is lit up at night, which creates a beautiful and unique atmosphere. The last train down from the mountain leaves around 7 p.m.

What is the cost of visiting Christ the Redeemer?

The cost of visiting Christ the Redeemer varies depending on how you choose to get there. The train ride costs approximately $19 USD roundtrip, while hiking is free. There may be other fees associated with visiting the statue, such as park entrance fees or tour costs, but you can buy tickets for the train and Christ the Redeemer in advance online here.