as an enticing peak, in one of the world most inviting tropical forests, the pedra da gávea is a particularly popular hiking and mountaineering spot, becoming an icon for the sport. the trail up the mountain was initially established in about 1830, when the first expeditions to the top began, but it is now journeyed by countless hikers every year.

whilst there are many different routes to the top, the usual trail begins in the depth of the forest, with a stone path that was built by slaves.