Rio Essentials: Selaron Steps, Sugar Loaf and Christ Redeemer
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 13 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Rio Essentials: Selaron Steps, Sugar Loaf and Christ Redeemer worth booking?
Rio Essentials: Selaron Steps, Sugar Loaf and Christ Redeemer is a 9-hour experience in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, from $149 per person. It scores 70 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 5/5 rating across 13 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 70 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (13)
- Duration
- 9 hours
- From
- $149 per person
Combine visits to Corcovado and the Christ Redeemer Statue, the Selaron Steps, the Metropolitan Cathedral and Sugar Loaf mountain. Hit four must-sees in Rio on this full-day 9-hour tour. Start the day with a comprehensive city tour of Rio with a stop at the Metropolitan Cathedral, then ride the Sugar Loaf cable car overlooking Guanabara Bay. Refuel midday with a barbecue lunch at one Rio’s best barbecue Steak houses and then continue on over to see the Christ the Redeemer statue atop Corcovado and end your visit at the famous Selaron Steps before heading back to your hotel in time to catch dinner. Round-trip transportation from most hotels in Copacabana, Ipanema, Leblon and São Conrado.
What you get
About this experience
Combine visits to Corcovado and the Christ Redeemer Statue, the Selaron Steps, the Metropolitan Cathedral and Sugar Loaf mountain. Hit four must-sees in Rio on this full-day 9-hour tour. Start the day with a comprehensive city tour of Rio with a stop at the Metropolitan Cathedral, then ride the Sugar Loaf cable car overlooking Guanabara Bay. Refuel midday with a barbecue lunch at one Rio’s best barbecue Steak houses and then continue on over to see the Christ the Redeemer statue atop Corcovado and end your visit at the famous Selaron Steps before heading back to your hotel in time to catch dinner. Round-trip transportation from most hotels in Copacabana, Ipanema, Leblon and São Conrado.
What's included
Included
- Roundtrip transfer to most hotels in São Conrado, Leblon, Ipanema and Copacabana
- Panoramic city tour
- Cable Car Ticket to Sugar Loaf Access
- Van Ticket to Christ Redeemer Statue Access
- Barbecue Lunch (Vegetarian options available) - On option with Lunch only.
- Professional Guide with Live tour Commentary in English, Spanish and Portuguese.
Not included
- Optional Gratuities
- Beverages
What you'll see and do
Copacabana Beach
Copacabana Beach is the most famous beach in the city (maybe even in the country, or in the world) and is about 4 km long. Among the trademarks is its boardwalk with waves drawn in Portuguese stone, designed by famous brazilian landscaper Burle Max. In Copacabana you will testify why cariocas have such a beautiful tan. While you travel through these neighborhoods, you will hear a few tips on what to do around them and the interesting stories that took place in these streets.
Guanabara Palace
You will pass through the historic Laranjeiras neighborhood, which hosts the Guanabara Palace, the ancient home of Princess Isabel who signed the Golden Law to free all slaves. Nowadays, the Palace is the official headquarters of the government of Rio de Janeiro.
Sambodromo da Marques de Sapucai
Before reaching downtown you will pass next to the Sambodrome, where the Samba School Parade happens every year.
Rio de Janeiro Historic City Center
A comprehensive city tour of downtown area. Take a panoramic tour through historical streets and buildings and get to know stories and curiosities of this prominent area. Get nice perspectives of the traditional Cinelândia Square with its historical buildings, and take a look at the Municipal Theater with its Art Nouveau Architecture.
The Metropolitan Cathedral of Saint Sebastian
See from outside and get inside the iconic Metropolitan Cathedral which was built in a pyramidal form with an internal diameter of 96 meters and a height of 80 meters.
15 minutes here
Aterro Do Flamengo
You will make your way to Urca through Aterro do Flamengo and its parks, designed by Burle Marx and hear all about Brazil’s participation in World War II as well as the founding of the city back in the late 1500s, just before arriving to Sugar Loaf.
Morro da Urca
The first cable car takes you to Urca Hill, a vantage point 215 meters high for which already grants beautiful views of Guanabara Bay and its islands, Flamengo and Botafogo beaches, Santos Dummont Airport, the Rio-Niterói Bridge, Urca’s neighborhood and Corcovado Mountain.
10 minutes here · Admission included
Sugarloaf Mountain
A second cable car takes you up to the top. When you get there, you will understand why Rio is considered one of the most beautiful cities in the world. At 395 meters you’ll enjoy breathtaking views from Copacabana beach, Niterói and the Santa Cruz fortress. From up there, you will have no trouble understanding why Rio is nicknamed “Wonderful City”.
40 minutes here · Admission included
After visiting Sugar Loaf Mountain, you will head down to an all-you-can-eat-style barbecue house. Brazilian Churrascarias (Barbecue places) offer a wide variety of sides and alternative options, in case you decide to stick with a vegetarian option, you will still leave delighted. Lunch is included only if option selected. If selecting an option without lunch, our guide will offer a variety of nearby suggestions that can fit any budget or taste!
80 minutes here · Admission not included
Santa Teresa
Pass through this unique and charming neighborhood.
Escadaria Selaron
The beautiful steps done in ceramic by artist Jorge Selarón are one of a kind. You will have about 10 minutes or so to contemplate it .
10 minutes here
Parque Nacional da Tijuca
Pass by the park in a van ride to get to the Corcovado Mountain
Santuario Cristo Redentor
Upon arriving at the Statue, you will have two options of reaching the top, by a lift and then an escalator, or the traditional way, by stairs, 222 Steps, but the prize makes it all worthwhile. Once up, the views and the imposing statue will take your mind off the walk up! Looking up you will feel blessed and protected by this beautiful monument of Christ with open arms, now one of the new Seven Wonders of the World! From up there you can see most of the city, all of the south zone and all the way to Niteroi. A unique view that will astound you. You will have about 40 minutes to get to know all the sides and views of Corcovado and take pictures.
40 minutes here · Admission not included
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 30 minutes before departure.
Options you can book
Private - By Van - No Lunch
Private Tour: Private guide and vehicle included. Sugar Loaf + Christ Redeemer by Van with Pre-reserved tickets and optional Lunch Lunch Not Included: Time allowed for lunch with lots of nearby options Sedan: Up to 02 people. Or Van: from 03 to 13 people Live Guide in: English, Spanish, Portuguese, German, French or Italian. Pickup included
Private - By Van with Lunch
Private Tour: Private guide and vehicle included. Sugar Loaf + Christ Redeemer by Van with Pre-reserved tickets and Barbecue Lunch Barbecue Lunch included: Delicious all-you- can-eat barbecue with multiple sides and Ice-cream for dessert Sedan: Up to 02 people. Or Van: from 03 to 13 people Live Guide in: English, Spanish, Portuguese, German, French or Italian. Pickup included
Shared - By Van- No Lunch
Shared with other guests: Full-day tour with tickets to Sugar Loaf, free time for lunch & Christ Redeemer Statue by Van with tickets.(9 hours) Lunch Not Included: Time allowed for lunch with lots of nearby options Live Guide in: English, Spanish, Portuguese. Pickup included
Shared - By Van & With Lunch
Shared with other guests: Full-day tour with tickets to Sugar Loaf with barbecue lunch & Christ Redeemer Statue by Van with tickets.(9 hours) Barbecue Lunch included: Delicious all-you- can-eat barbecue with multiple sides and Ice-cream for dessert Live Guide in: English, Spanish, Portuguese. Pickup included
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- de, pt, en, it, fr, es
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Gray Line Brazil
Know before you go
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Barbecue Lunch (Vegetarian options available) - On option with Lunch. If selecting an option without lunch, our guide will offer a variety of nearby suggestions that can fit any budget or taste!
- It is recommended to wear light clothes, sunscreen and sunglasses
- The specific departure time for this tour will be determined upon reconfirmation
- Keep in mind that if you want to avoid picking other passenger, just ask us to be picked up from the last departure point on the tour
- Tour runs in any weather
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 13 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
8 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
4 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Food and drink
4 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Value for money
2 mentionsTravelers feel they got more than they paid for.
Organization
2 mentionsPickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.
Traveler reviews
13 verified traveler reviews for Rio Essentials: Selaron Steps, Sugar Loaf and Christ Redeemer. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
A good tour.
The tour was very good. A bit long but well worth it. I only wish the tour guide spoke more English.
via Viator
FAMILY TRAVEL
A big thank you for this great experience, it was the first time we came to Rio and we loved it. We had an amazing guide Tania Uhlala thank you to her and also our driver Gustavo, Tania you are the best I recommend for your excursions
via Tripadvisor (translated)
Patricia
Best tourguide pateicia! She made our trip so much fun. The three sights were a good “all around” for rio and didn’t take too long. Thank you Pateicia
Response from the operator: Dear Customer. Thanks a lot for the review. We are glad that you liked the tour. Please count on us on future trips. Thanks.
via Tripadvisor
Amazed with this tour and the city
The tour was excellent, full of laughs and nice memories. I will definitely recommend this tour. Warley was an amazing tour guide, he explained everything about the city.
via Tripadvisor
Main attractions in Rio
I came to Rio for work so I didn't have a lot of time to explore Rio. So I went on this tour and got to see the mai attractions in Rio. I had Patricia as my guide and Aloisio as the driver. They were both fantastic and really welcoming. The lunch was delicious, you get to go to a Rodizio where the staff are really welcoming.
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 9 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $149 to $3,833
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 5
- Verdict
- Solid Choice
Who runs this experience
Operated by Gray Line Brazil, who run 56 experiences we rank across 5 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 53.4.
See everything Gray Line Brazil runsWhy this scores 70
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Rio Essentials: Selaron Steps, Sugar Loaf and Christ Redeemer: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Rio de Janeiro.
How much does Rio Essentials: Selaron Steps, Sugar Loaf and Christ Redeemer cost?
+
Prices start at $149 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Rio de Janeiro usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Rio Essentials: Selaron Steps, Sugar Loaf and Christ Redeemer take?
+
Plan for about 9 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Rio de Janeiro is not rushed.
Is Rio Essentials: Selaron Steps, Sugar Loaf and Christ Redeemer worth it?
+
It holds an Outty Ranking of 70 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 13 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Rio de Janeiro, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Rio Essentials: Selaron Steps, Sugar Loaf and Christ Redeemer?
+
Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Rio Essentials: Selaron Steps, Sugar Loaf and Christ Redeemer suitable for kids and families?
+
Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 9-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Rio Essentials: Selaron Steps, Sugar Loaf and Christ Redeemer?
+
Around 5 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Rio de Janeiro can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
+
Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Rio de Janeiro and add a light layer if any part of the 9-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Rio Essentials: Selaron Steps, Sugar Loaf and Christ Redeemer start and how do I get there?
+
The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Rio de Janeiro within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Rio de Janeiro?
+
On Outty we rank every Rio de Janeiro experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Pedra da Gávea hike, your best experience in Rio, Favela Tour Rio de Janeiro - Vidigal Walking Tour by Russo Guide, Rio's Full Day: Selarón Steps, Christ & Sugarloaf – Tickets & Lunch Included. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Rio de Janeiro?
+
Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Rio de Janeiro?
+
Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
+
Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Rio Essentials: Selaron Steps, Sugar Loaf and Christ Redeemer?
+
Included: Roundtrip transfer to most hotels in São Conrado, Leblon, Ipanema and Copacabana; Panoramic city tour; Cable Car Ticket to Sugar Loaf Access; Van Ticket to Christ Redeemer Statue Access; and Barbecue Lunch (Vegetarian options available) - On option with Lunch only. Not included: Optional Gratuities; and Beverages. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Rio Essentials: Selaron Steps, Sugar Loaf and Christ Redeemer include hotel pickup?
+
Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 79 listed pickup locations in and around Rio de Janeiro. Be ready about 30 minutes before the start time.
What languages is Rio Essentials: Selaron Steps, Sugar Loaf and Christ Redeemer offered in?
+
It is offered in German, Portuguese, English, Italian, French and Spanish. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Rio Essentials: Selaron Steps, Sugar Loaf and Christ Redeemer?
+
Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Rio Essentials: Selaron Steps, Sugar Loaf and Christ Redeemer wheelchair or stroller accessible?
+
The operator notes: Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap; and Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Rio Essentials: Selaron Steps, Sugar Loaf and Christ Redeemer if the weather is bad?
+
It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Rio de Janeiro. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
What do travelers say about Rio Essentials: Selaron Steps, Sugar Loaf and Christ Redeemer?
+
Across 13 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, food and drink. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
What booking options are available for Rio Essentials: Selaron Steps, Sugar Loaf and Christ Redeemer?
+
There are 4 options to choose from, including Private - By Van - No Lunch, Private - By Van with Lunch, Shared - By Van- No Lunch, Shared - By Van & With Lunch. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
Ready to lock in your spot?
Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for Rio Essentials: Selaron Steps, Sugar Loaf and Christ Redeemer.
Pick your date
