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Pedra da Gavea Hike in Rio de Janeiro

The Pedra da Gávea hike is the perfect challenge for those seeking adventure, adrenaline, and the most stunning views of Rio de Janeiro. Standing at 844 meters, Pedra da Gávea is located within Tijuca National Park and is one of the most admired and famous rock formations in the marvelous city.

Pedra da Gávea offers some of the most beautiful natural viewpoints in Rio de Janeiro, and climbing it is a dream for many travelers and locals alike.

Pedra da Gávea is the largest seaside monolith in the world. From its summit, you can see Guanabara Bay and some of Rio’s main beaches, including Ipanema, Leblon, Barra da Tijuca, and São Conrado. You can also spot other mountains within Tijuca National Park, such as Pico da Tijuca, Bico do Papagaio, Pedra Bonita, and Corcovado. On clear blue-sky days, you can even see the mountains of Serra dos Órgãos.

Click here or keep scrolling to access the description and details about the Pedra da Gávea hike and trail itinerary.

Highlights of the Pedra da Gávea Hike – Rio de Janeiro

Highlights of the Pedra da Gávea Hike

We will visit some of the most famous viewpoints in Rio de Janeiro during the Pedra da Gávea hike, such as Pedra do Raio, Cadeirinha, Mesa, Carrasqueira, Portal de Agartha, Cabeça do Imperador, and others.
The most stunning view of Rio de Janeiro.
Cool off at the small waterfall on the Pedra da Gávea hike at the end of the tour.
Trained and specialized Adventure Tourism Guide in Hiking, Rappelling, and Climbing.
Safety equipment and insurance included in the activity.

Photos of the Pedra da Gávea Hike

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Videos of the Pedra da Gávea Hike

Price: Open Group

64,00USD Per person USD For payments with Credit Card, PayPal, or PagSeguro (up to 6x without interest).

Open Group – Regular: several clients interested in doing the hike on the same date.
Private Group: exclusive to the client who booked.

*A minimum quorum of 2 participants is required for the Open/Regular Group activity to take place. If you are alone, we can fit you into other groups. Nattrip will do its best to meet the minimum quorum; if your activity does not happen, you can reschedule or request a refund of the amounts paid.

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We work with Open and Private Groups.

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+55 (21) 96931-8893 (Whtasapp)

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Itinerary and information about the Pedra da Gávea Hike

Itinerary of the Pedra da Gávea Hike

What is the Pedra da Gávea hike like?

The Pedra da Gávea hike is located within Rio de Janeiro’s Atlantic Forest, in Tijuca National Park, which means there is always the possibility of encountering wildlife during the tour. For most of the year, Rio de Janeiro‘s climate is hot and humid, so all participants should stay well-hydrated and bring at least 3 liters of water for the Pedra da Gávea hike. During the journey, our guide will manage the tour’s duration as Tijuca National Park closes at 5:00 PM.

Experience the Pedra da Gávea hike with safety, equipment, and a guide included in the activity.

The Pedra da Gávea hike is considered a very scenic walk with various natural obstacles that are easy to overcome. For most of the journey, the climb is steep and challenging. The main challenges of the Pedra da Gávea hike are the long ascent, which takes about two and a half hours, and a 30-meter basic-level climbing section known as Carrasqueira. No prior climbing experience is necessary to tackle the Carrasqueira. The guide will assist all participants using rock climbing techniques and the necessary procedures to ensure a comfortable and safe adventure.

Discover the main viewpoints of the Pedra da Gávea hike

The descent will follow the same trail as the ascent. In the steepest sections, the guide will lower the group using a technique similar to rappelling, where the guide will control the descent and handle the equipment, providing your group with much more safety and comfort. You and your friends will only need to enjoy the moment and take plenty of photos.

We will visit the famous viewpoints of the Pedra da Gávea hike:

Pedra do Raio
Cadeirinha
Mesa
Carrasqueira
Portal de Agartha
Cabeça do Imperador
Pedra da Pirâmide
Pedra do Raio, among others.

Come and experience the best views of Rio de Janeiro with Nattrip. Check out our Pedra da Gávea hike video and book your adventure!

What is included?

What to bring?

Starting Point and Schedule

How to get there?

How to get to the Pedra da Gávea Hike?

Here’s how to get to Pedra da Gávea: located within the boundaries of Tijuca National Park, Pedra da Gávea stretches between the neighborhoods of Gávea and Barra da Tijuca, connecting the South and West Zones of Rio de Janeiro.

Where is the Pedra da Gávea hike?

The Pedra da Gávea hike starts at Praça Professor Velho da Silva, in Barra da Tijuca. From this square, you will enter a gated community on Estrada do Joá and drive up to the highest point of the community. After this street (Sorimã), you will reach the trailhead, where you’ll find signs for Tijuca National Park. Here, you will register your name and ID with the park security to begin the hike, which is approximately 1.6 km.

The starting point of the Pedra da Gávea hike is at the end of the following road:

How to get to the Pedra da Gávea hike by bus?

For those taking a bus to the Pedra da Gávea hike entrance, look for a bus that passes through the Itanhangá neighborhood and, more specifically, Praça Desembargador Araújo Jorge. From the square, walk along Estrada do Joá to Avenida Fleming until you reach Praça Professor Velho da Silva. From there, enter a gated community and follow Estrada Sorimã until you reach the entrance of the park, where you will find the signs for Tijuca National Park and the security staff.

How to get to the Pedra da Gávea hike by car?

Nattrip offers daily departures with a professional guide and optional transportation for the Pedra da Gávea hike. Check it out and come enjoy a safe adventure.

Best time

Best time to hike Pedra da Gávea

The Pedra da Gávea hike can be done year-round, but weather conditions directly impact safety and enjoyment. Choosing the best time to take on this challenge is essential to ensure an unforgettable and safe experience.

Best period: Autumn and Winter (March to September)

Weather: During autumn and winter, Rio de Janeiro experiences milder temperatures, usually between 18°C and 28°C, with less rainfall. This drier climate reduces the risk of slipping and improves traction on steeper rocky sections.
Clear skies: Low humidity contributes to blue skies and perfect visibility, offering spectacular summit views, including Guanabara Bay, South Zone beaches, and even the Serra dos Órgãos mountains.
Comfortable hiking: With more pleasant temperatures, the physical effort required for the Pedra da Gávea hike is more manageable, ideal for those seeking a comfortable experience.

Summer (December to March)

High temperatures: Summer in Rio de Janeiro can be extremely hot, with temperatures exceeding 35°C. This increases physical strain and the risk of dehydration during the hike. Drink plenty of water.
Heavy rains: Summer is also marked by intense rains and seasonal storms. The Pedra da Gávea trail can become slippery, especially on rocky ramps.
Fog: Rain and high humidity can cause fog, reducing visibility and impacting the visual experience at the summit.

Spring (September to November)

Intermediate weather: Spring is another good time for the hike, especially early in the season. The weather is still mild, and there is less rain, providing favorable conditions for a safe and pleasant hike.

Choosing the right time to take on the Pedra da Gávea hike makes all the difference in enjoying this unique experience in nature and the incredible landscapes of Rio de Janeiro.

History of Pedra da Gávea

History of Pedra da Gávea – The Natural Icon of Rio de Janeiro

Pedra da Gávea is one of the most imposing rock formations in Rio de Janeiro and the world. Standing 844 meters tall, it is considered the largest seaside monolith on the planet. Located within Tijuca National Park, this mountain is not only a geographic landmark but also carries a rich history and an air of mystery that makes it even more fascinating.

Origin of the Name

The name “Pedra da Gávea” dates back to the era of great maritime expeditions. In the 16th century, Portuguese navigators spotted the mountain from afar and noticed its shape resembled a “gávea,” the topmost part of a caravel’s mainmast. Since then, Pedra da Gávea has become a reference point for sailors approaching Rio’s coastline.

Mysteries and Legends

Pedra da Gávea is surrounded by legends and theories that intrigue historians and adventurers alike. One of its greatest mysteries lies on its eastern face, where natural rock formations resemble inscriptions or symbols, often attributed to ancient civilizations like the Phoenicians. Additionally, the “Emperor’s Head,” which appears sculpted into the rock, adds to the site’s mysticism and mysterious aura.

While these theories are captivating, geological studies suggest that the “inscriptions” and “face” are the result of millions of years of erosion that naturally shaped the rock.

Preservation and Significance

Pedra da Gávea is part of Tijuca National Park, established in 1961, a protected area home to the largest urban forest in the world. The mountain serves as a haven for the biodiversity of the Atlantic Forest and offers a unique ecotourism experience, with spectacular views of the city, beaches, and surrounding mountains.

A Challenge for Adventurers

Over the years, Pedra da Gávea has become one of the most coveted destinations for hikers and climbers. The trail to the summit is challenging, featuring steep sections and a basic climbing segment known as “Carrasqueira.” At the top, the reward is a panoramic view that includes Guanabara Bay, São Conrado Beach, Barra da Tijuca, and, on clear days, even the Serra dos Órgãos.

Pedra da Gávea Today

Today, Pedra da Gávea is an icon of Rio de Janeiro, symbolizing the union between the city and the lush nature surrounding it. Its history, mysteries, and beauty captivate visitors from around the world, offering a place for adventure, contemplation, and connection to the past.

Experience this unique adventure and uncover the wonders of the Pedra da Gávea hike with Nattrip!

7:30

Meeting Point
Estrada Sorimã, 932, Itanhangá – Barra da Tijuca
8:00

Hike Start
Sector C – Tijuca National Park
Hiking time: 6 to 8 hours (round trip)
Distance: 8 km (round trip)
9:00

Pedra do Navio
After 1 hour of hiking and the first section with technical obstacles, we reach Pedra do Navio, the first viewpoint overlooking Barra da Tijuca.
10:30

Climbing through Carrasqueira
Climbing Section
The guide will have equipment and will use safety techniques.
12:00

Pedra da Gávea Summit
After 3 hours of intense hiking, we reach the summit of Pedra da Gávea and the most incredible view of Rio de Janeiro.
12:30

Cabeça do Imperador
For the more adventurous, the guide will take you to the highest point of the Pedra da Gávea hike at 846m.
14:00

Descent through Carrasqueira
Hike with exposed sections and use of safety equipment.
17:00

End of the Hike
Until the next adventures in Rio de Janeiro