The iconic Christ the Redeemer statue towers over the bay with his hands outstretched, welcoming you to Rio…but how do you get up there?
Whether you’re in a hurry, ready for a spectacular (new) hike, or want to go in style — I’ve got you covered.
Considered one of the 7 Wonders of the Modern World, getting up close and personal with this colossal statue of Jesus is one of the highlights of any trip to Rio. Located at the top of Corcovado Mountain — thankfully there are many ways to reach it for everyone’s travel style and budget. I’ve personally tried them all and here’s my run down of when and how to get up to the Christ the Redeemer statue.
Getting there:
- The coolest way: Corcovado Train: Perfect for travelers who want a stress-free and comfortable journey, with scenic views of the Tijuca Forest. Bonus, stay later for the closure and sunset.
- Convenient and affordable: Official Vans: A budget-friendly option with departures from Largo do Machado and Praça do Lido, stopping at the Paineiras Visitors Center before heading to the monument.
- For adventurers: Paineiras Visitors Center Trail: A 45-minute moderate hike with incredible views and a newly opened lookout point.
- Luxury: Private guided tour, taxi or rideshare
- Avoid the crowds (usually) Between 8 and 9 a.m.: Ideal for a quieter start to the day and in cooler weather.
- Experience the sunset: Late afternoon: Perfect for enjoying the sunset and twilight views. Take the train to ensure your hassle-free return.
How to get to Christ the Redeemer
Corcovado Train
Make the journey part of the experience. The Corcovado train is a 20-minute ride through the lush Tijuca Forest, with stops to enjoy the scenery. The journey begins at the historic Cosme Velho station, which features a recently revitalized space with a café, shop, and photo-friendly spots.
The train drops passengers just steps from the statue, offering practical and direct access. Tickets, which include access to Christ the Redeemer, can (and should!) be purchased in advance on the official website with a scheduled departure time. Return trips can be taken at any time, allowing flexibility to enjoy the visit at your own pace. While tickets are available at the station, I don’t recommend it, as this option is subject to long lines and limited availability, especially during peak season.
Corcovado Vans
The official Corcovado vans offer a practical and convenient option, with boarding points in two city locations: Largo do Machado and Praça do Lido in Copacabana. There is also a third boarding option at the Paineiras Visitors Center for those arriving by tour, car, or bike.
Vans depart from the city between 8 a.m. and 4 a.m. and stop at the Visitors Center, where you must switch to vans that take you to the top of Corcovado – another 15-minute journey. These vans run from the Visitors Center between 7:20 a.m. and 5 p.m. This system allows visitors to enjoy the facilities at the Visitors Center, such as interactive exhibits, viewpoints, and restaurants.
Tickets for the vans, which include access to Christ the Redeemer, can be purchased on the official website with a scheduled departure time. Be aware that travel time may vary depending on traffic conditions, so plan accordingly.
By car, taxi, or rideshare
Driving is only possible up to the Paineiras Visitors Center, where you’ll need to use the official vans to reach the statue. There’s no official parking nearby, and spaces along the road can be hard to find, especially during peak seasons. Driving is not a recommended option, even though it can be economical.
For those keen to combine their visit to Christ the Redeemer with other attractions in the area, such as the Dona Marta Lookout, hiring a tour can simplify logistics, including parking.
If you choose a taxi or rideshare service, keep in mind that finding a return vehicle might be challenging, as the area has low traffic flow.
Supplemental van service
This authorized service offers transportation by van from the Corcovado Train Station in Cosme Velho to the Paineiras Visitors Center. It’s an alternative for those without train tickets. This service does not include admission to Christ the Redeemer, unlike the official train or vans.
Hiking to Christ the Redeemer
For adventurers, a recently inaugurated trail segment connects the Paineiras Visitors Center to Christ the Redeemer, offering a unique way to combine a forest hike with a visit to the monument.
The hike from the Visitors Center takes approximately 45 minutes, is moderately challenging, and features a newly opened lookout point with stunning city views. Access to the trail is free, but tickets are required to enter the monument. You can use the Corcovado vans to reach the Visitors Center and hike from there. If you prefer not to hike back, use the vans for the return trip.
Christ the Redeemer: Operating hours
Christ the Redeemer is open daily, with operating hours that vary throughout the year. During the summer, the monument operates from 7:20 a.m. to 7 p.m., while winter hours are from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. From Christmas through mid-January, and other events taking place in the city like Rock in Rio, extended hours are often available, with operations until 8 p.m..
It’s recommended to confirm these times on official websites, especially if visiting during those periods
Best times to visit Christ the Redeemer
As one of Rio’s top attractions, Christ the Redeemer is often crowded, especially during peak seasons like school holidays and long weekends. If possible, plan your visit on a weekday. While there’s no guaranteed quiet time, some moments are better (or less busy) than others.
Early, but not too early:
First thing in the morning, the site tends to be quieter. However, many tours start with sunrise at the Dona Marta Lookout and then proceed to Christ the Redeemer, bringing groups focused on photography. This can lead to lines of tourists waiting for photos – great if you want shots without crowds in the background but less ideal if you are looking to explore freely.
For a more relaxed experience, aim to take the train or vans between 8 and 9 a.m.to enjoy a quieter visit and avoid the midday heat.
Late afternoon:
This is my favorite time to visit. In the late afternoon, the site is generally less crowded, and you can enjoy the sunset and the city’s twilight – a stunning combination that will leave a lasting impression. Keep in mind, however, that the last vans leave one hour before the final train, so if you plan to visit at this time, taking the train is the best option to ensure your return.
What way will you choose to get to this iconic Wonder of the Modern World?
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