Corcovado      

It is impossible to conceive a trip to Rio de Janeiro without paying a visit to the statue of Christ The Redeemer. Located at the top of Corcovado Hill, it is Brazil’s most known image throughout the world. Every year, over 300,000 people visit the statue of Christ using the centenary Corcovado Train, the oldest touristic ride in the country. Besides being overwhelmed by Rio’s beautiful landscape, the passenger has the chance to ride throughout Brazil’s history. The Corcovado Train was inaugurated 114 years ago, by Brazilian Emperor Dom Pedro II, and among its passengers there were Popes, Kings, Princes, Presidents, Artists and Scientists.This is also an ecological ride. The train crosses the biggest urban forest in the world, the Tijuca National Park, a part of the Atlantic Forest considered as an example of nature preservation.Those who ride in the Corcovado Train also help in preserving the forest, since this train doesn’t harm nature – it is electric– and also part of the funds generated by the entrance tickets are destined to Ibama, the Brazilian Institute for the Preservation of Nature. Christ the Redeemer statue is, without a doubt, the most memorable tourist attraction. It standas atop Corcovado (hunchback) Mountain, a 2.330 foot peak, from which one has a view of Guanabara Bay, Niteroi bridge, Yacht Club, Sugar Loaf ( second most frequented sightseeing attraction), Botanical gardens, the Atlantic ocean and beaches. Elevators, escalators or 225 steps take you to the 1931 soapstone-covered concrete statue, 125 feet tall, and the viewing plataform. There is a restaurant/bar with a souvinir shop for those who wish to remain at the lower level. Estrada de Ferro operates a cog train every 30 minutes from 8:30 a.m until 6:30 p.m. Passagers can now leave the train at Paineiras station, take a walk in the Tijuca National Park,return,and shower before embarking using the same ticket.

*Corcovado - daily - 4 hs (morning or afternoon) - R$ 95,00 per person    

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