the hike to the top starts in the tijuca rainforest, and is considered as the most difficult in rio, as it is steep all the way to the top of the 842 meters high summit, with some rock climbing included as well. the journey takes between two to four hours, depending on speed and experience, and it is advisable to go with a guide to help hikers navigate the trail safely and without getting lost.

the reward, for those that make it to the apex of pedra da gávea, is colossal, as they are treated to 360-degree views of the whole boarder of rio de janeiro, which is considered by some as the very best view in the entire city.

for those who are not planning on hiking to the pedra da gávea viewpoint, here a virtual tour can be enjoyed offered by the serviço geológico do brasil - cprm.