another stop along the way is a surf school called favela surf club - fsc, a project designed to help favela youth find a way out of poverty. once climbers pass the school, the hike gains a steep ascent, winding through the atlantic rainforest, with stunning views of rio de janeiro along the way.

the hike being relatively challenging, it is worth taking note of and properly preparing for animals, high altitudes and some physical obstacles - as such, proper footwear and hiking with a guide is recommended.