Best Rio De Janeiro Views

Rio de Janeiro is a city famous for its stunning landscape and no visit to this spectacular metropolis is complete without seeing the skyline in its entirety. The two best viewpoints also happen to be the two most famous landmarks in Rio, and for good reason. It's a tough choice, but the very best views in the city can be had from the top of Sugarloaf Mountain.

Sugarloaf Mountain or Pao de Acucar in Portuguese is one of the many giant morros of quartz and granite which jut dramatically out of the Atlantic Ocean and tower over the tropical white-sand beaches. This famous mountain can be reached via cable car or the teleferico. To ascend to the top, travelers ride a series of two cables. The first stops at the peak of Urca Mountain where there is a lovely terrace with breathtaking views of the city. After you have had your fill of this view, you can take the second cable car up to the peak of Sugarloaf Mountain, 1300 ft above sea level. From here, the city is a landscape of shocking contrasts. White-sand beaches, skyscrapers, lush green mountains, and a brilliant blue sea create a view that keeps most travelers on the peak for at least a few hours.

Expecting this vista worship, the summit has plenty of activities to keep travelers busy while admiring the city below. There is a small trail that leads through verdant jungle where quiet walkers can spot monkeys, birds, and lizards, and plenty of benches and cafes for those wanting to get off their feet. There is no bad time to visit Sugarloaf, but watching the day dissolve in a brilliant portrait of orange and purple, and then watching the stars and city lights appear is particularly breathtaking.

The second best view in Rio can be had from the feet of Rio's most photographed landmark, the statue of Christ the Redeemer, the largest art deco statue in the world. In 2007 this 120 ft tall statue was named one of the New 7 Wonders of the World. Travelers can reach this famous statue by taxi or by a scenic train ride that leads through forests. It's important to visit this wonder on a clear, sunny day, as when the clouds roll in it is difficult to see anything at all. However, if the day is clear you will be treated to one of the most beautiful views in the world.