the spot atop of the fort, where the two huge silver guns reside, both with double barrels, is by far the best place to take in the views. because the fort juts out into the ocean it is possible to see a large part of the rio de janeiro and the surrounding area.

sugar loaf mountain (pão de açúcar) rises high into the clouds in the northeast while copacabana beach stretches out before it, packed tight with sun-worshipping cariocas and travelers alike.

the beautiful cagarras islands (ilhas cagarras) are also visible from the lookout point. they are uninhabited and cover a total area of 2 kilometers squared.