×
Christ the Redeemer Statue

Brazil🇧🇷 | landmarksChrist the Redeemer Statuemountaintop monument, panoramic views, Art Deco icon | things to do and best time to go

Explore Caminho dos AntiquáriosExplore Convento da Penha

Backpacking in Christ the Redeemer Statue
🏆 Top pickunique site ranked #2
By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated May 22, 2026

Most people imagine Christ the Redeemer as a serene, empty mountaintop where you’ll quietly contemplate life. That’s fantasy. In reality, you’re sharing that moment with hundreds of people and a lot of elbows. The statue sits on Corcovado Mountain in Rio de Janeiro, towering over the city and Guanabara Bay.

For backpackers, it’s both overhyped and absolutely worth it. The wow-factor is real when you step off the train or van and see that 30‑meter figure looming through the clouds, but so are the ticket prices and the lines. It’s easy enough to reach with public transport plus the official train/van, yet you’re on a very controlled, touristy conveyor belt. Photos are chaos: people lying on the ground to get the angle, selfie sticks everywhere, zero chill. But when the clouds part and Rio opens up below you, the mix of faith, engineering, and raw geography hits hard. It feels big, in a way Instagram never quite captures.

Discover everything you want to know in the 📖 Brazil Travel Guide.


Get your Brazil guide
152 ranked highlights, routes & tips, works offline (515 pages)
Loading the map 🌍
CLICK TO FILTER
cities
towns
villages
landmarks
national parks
hikes
beaches
attractions
festivals
regions
SHOW COUNTRY’S BESTSHOW ALL
💡 Help me find the best route

✨ Why go?
Ranked #2 unique site in BrazilWhat makes it a must-see unique site

The Christ the Redeemer Statue isn’t just a photo op; it’s a cultural icon that demands your attention. Yes, it’s crowded and yes, it can feel like a tourist trap, but here’s the kicker: the view from up there is nothing short of breathtaking. Standing at 98 feet tall, the statue offers a panoramic vista of Rio de Janeiro that’s hard to beat.

Getting there isn’t a hassle either. You can take a train through the lush Tijuca Forest, which adds a bit of adventure to the journey. The ticket price is reasonable, especially considering the experience you’re getting.

But here’s what makes it worth your while: the spiritual energy of the place. It’s not just about the statue; it’s about the connection you feel with the city and its people. Plus, it fits seamlessly into a broader route—combine … read more 👉
The Christ the Redeemer Statue isn’t just a photo op; it’s a cultural icon that demands your attention. Yes, it’s crowded and yes, it can feel like a tourist trap, but here’s the kicker: the view from up there is nothing short of breathtaking. Standing at 98 feet tall, the statue offers a panoramic vista of Rio de Janeiro that’s hard to beat.

Getting there isn’t a hassle either. You can take a train through the lush Tijuca Forest, which adds a bit of adventure to the journey. The ticket price is reasonable, especially considering the experience you’re getting.

But here’s what makes it worth your while: the spiritual energy of the place. It’s not just about the statue; it’s about the connection you feel with the city and its people. Plus, it fits seamlessly into a broader route—combine it with a hike up Sugarloaf Mountain or a stroll through Santa Teresa.

So, while the crowds can be a buzzkill, the effort you put in is rewarded with a slice of Brazilian life that’s genuinely transformative.
Want to include Christ the Redeemer Statue in your Brazil route?
Create a personalized Brazil itinerary that includes Christ the Redeemer Statue and the places that fit your trip — based on your travel style, budget, and available time. Get your route in seconds.

Generate my trip

💡 HighlightsPlaces and moments you shouldn't skip

  • The statue up close — Walking right under Christ’s outstretched arms is different from seeing photos. You’ll notice the Art Deco lines, the soapstone cladding and the sheer scale (about 30 m tall, excluding the pedestal). It’s the detail work and human engineering that make the moment feel real.
  • Panoramic views over Rio — From the platform you get sweeping, 360° vistas: Sugarloaf Mountain, Guanabara Bay, Copacabana and Ipanema beaches, and the city spilling into the Atlantic. On a clear day the perspective is jaw-dropping; on a hazy day it’s atmospheric in a good way.
  • Train ride through Tijuca Forest (Trem do Corcovado) — A short, scenic cog train climbs through one of the world’s largest urban rainforests before dropping you at the statue. The ride sets the tone—green canopy, birds, a
… read more 👉
  • The statue up close — Walking right under Christ’s outstretched arms is different from seeing photos. You’ll notice the Art Deco lines, the soapstone cladding and the sheer scale (about 30 m tall, excluding the pedestal). It’s the detail work and human engineering that make the moment feel real.
  • Panoramic views over Rio — From the platform you get sweeping, 360° vistas: Sugarloaf Mountain, Guanabara Bay, Copacabana and Ipanema beaches, and the city spilling into the Atlantic. On a clear day the perspective is jaw-dropping; on a hazy day it’s atmospheric in a good way.
  • Train ride through Tijuca Forest (Trem do Corcovado) — A short, scenic cog train climbs through one of the world’s largest urban rainforests before dropping you at the statue. The ride sets the tone—green canopy, birds, a feeling of climbing out of the city. (Personal favorite: I love this bit.)
  • Sunrise and sunset light shows — Early morning brings fewer people and soft golden light; late afternoon gives dramatic shadows and vivid skies. Timing your visit for these windows changes the whole vibe and your photos will thank you.
  • Hiking through Tijuca National Park — If you have the legs and time, hike the trails up to Corcovado for a quieter, sweat-earned arrival. You pass waterfalls, native plants and lookout points that most day-trippers miss.
  • Architectural and engineering story — The statue is an Art Deco icon designed by Heitor da Silva Costa with sculptor Paul Landowski. Learning about how it was built, repaired (it gets lightning strikes) and conserved gives extra appreciation beyond the view.
  • Cultural and spiritual significance — Christ the Redeemer is both a national symbol and a living pilgrimage site. You’ll see people coming for photos, prayers, and celebrations; that mix of tourism and devotion is part of its character.
Spotted a mistake or missing something? Contact us.

Things to do around Christ the Redeemer Statue

PRIVATE SUV up to 7 people : Cristo Redentor + Rio`s hot spots

PRIVATE SUV up to 7 people : Cristo Redentor + Rio`s hot spots

5.0(50)
✓ Free cancellation
From €53
per personViator
Private Rio Tour: Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf & Selarón Steps

Private Rio Tour: Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf & Selarón Steps

5.0(41)
✓ Free cancellation
From €174
per personViator
8 Hour Private Tour by Car in Rio de Janeiro

8 Hour Private Tour by Car in Rio de Janeiro

5.0(39)
✓ Free cancellation
From €237
per personViator
Rio de Janeiro private Full day Custom Tours

Rio de Janeiro private Full day Custom Tours

5.0(36) 8h
✓ Free cancellation
From €321
per personViator
Day Tour in Rio de Janeiro

Day Tour in Rio de Janeiro

5.0(36)
✓ Free cancellation
From €125
per personViator
Christ the Redeemer, Tijuca National Forest & City Tour in 7hrs

Christ the Redeemer, Tijuca National Forest & City Tour in 7hrs

5.0(35)
✓ Free cancellation
From €97
per personViator
5-Hour Rio's Essential Sights: Private Tour – Optional Airport & Port Pick-ups

5-Hour Rio's Essential Sights: Private Tour – Optional Airport & Port Pick-ups

5.0(35) 5h
✓ Free cancellation
From €137
per personViator
Private Tour 7-Hours: Rio Best Sights with Airport, Port Pick-ups

Private Tour 7-Hours: Rio Best Sights with Airport, Port Pick-ups

5.0(32) 7h
✓ Free cancellation
From €169
per personViator
Private Tour: Rio de Janeiro Experience with Christ & Sugar Loaf

Private Tour: Rio de Janeiro Experience with Christ & Sugar Loaf

5.0(28)
✓ Free cancellation
From €246
per personViator
One Day in Rio with a Photographer

One Day in Rio with a Photographer

5.0(28) 8h
✓ Free cancellation
From €205
per personViator

Ratings based on Tripadvisor reviews. When you book through this link, you support our work at no extra cost to you.

example page 0 from our offline Travel Guide for Brazil
example page 1 from our offline Travel Guide for Brazil
example page 2 from our offline Travel Guide for Brazil
example page 3 from our offline Travel Guide for Brazil
example page 4 from our offline Travel Guide for Brazil
example page 5 from our offline Travel Guide for Brazil
example page 6 from our offline Travel Guide for Brazil
example page 7 from our offline Travel Guide for Brazil
Stop researching. Start exploring.
Discover all 152 highlights,ranked
and organized into practical routes.

Get instant access

🌤️ When to go?When to go for the best experience


  • Weather: The best weather hits between May and October, Brazil’s dry season. Expect clear skies and less humidity, making the climb and views more enjoyable. Avoid the wet season (December to March) when rain can turn the trails slippery and the statue often shrouded in mist.

  • Temperature: Daytime temps hover around 20-25°C (68-77°F) during the dry months—perfect for hiking without overheating. The wet season cranks up humidity and temps can spike to 30°C (86°F), which drains your energy fast.

  • Daylight Hours: From May to August, daylight is shorter—about 10 to 11 hours—so plan early starts. Longer days in November and December (up to 13 hours) mean more time to explore but come with the rain risk.

  • Crowds: Peak tourist season is December through March and July holidays. Expect throngs
… read more 👉

  • Weather: The best weather hits between May and October, Brazil’s dry season. Expect clear skies and less humidity, making the climb and views more enjoyable. Avoid the wet season (December to March) when rain can turn the trails slippery and the statue often shrouded in mist.

  • Temperature: Daytime temps hover around 20-25°C (68-77°F) during the dry months—perfect for hiking without overheating. The wet season cranks up humidity and temps can spike to 30°C (86°F), which drains your energy fast.

  • Daylight Hours: From May to August, daylight is shorter—about 10 to 11 hours—so plan early starts. Longer days in November and December (up to 13 hours) mean more time to explore but come with the rain risk.

  • Crowds: Peak tourist season is December through March and July holidays. Expect throngs and long waits. For a quieter experience, hit the shoulder months of April, May, or September when the crowds thin but the weather stays solid.

  • Seasonal Activities: Carnival season (February/March) floods Rio with visitors, making the statue a madhouse. Outside of that, local festivals in June add color but also crowds. If you want calm, skip these spikes.

  • Price Fluctuations: Prices for transport and tours spike during peak holidays and Carnival. Booking in the shoulder season can save you a good chunk, especially on guided hikes or tram rides.


Pro-tip: Aim for a weekday visit in May or September, early morning. You’ll dodge the worst crowds, enjoy crisp air, and catch the statue bathed in soft, golden light—no filters needed.


source: climatestotravel.comJANJanuary: fair for travelingFEBFebruary: below average for travelingMARMarch: below average for travelingAPRApril: highly recommended for travelingMAYMay: excellent for travelingJUNJune: highly recommended for travelingJULJuly: good for travelingAUGAugust: excellent for travelingSEPSeptember: highly recommended for travelingOCTOctober: excellent for travelingNOVNovember: good for travelingDECDecember: fair for traveling
Brazil - Christ the Redeemer Statue

✈️ The backpacker research shortcutBrazil Travel Guide

An offline-friendly backpacking guide with optimized travel routes, ranked highlights, transport advice, and the best areas to stay.
example page 0 from our offline Travel Guide for Brazil
example page 1 from our offline Travel Guide for Brazil
example page 2 from our offline Travel Guide for Brazil
example page 3 from our offline Travel Guide for Brazil
example page 4 from our offline Travel Guide for Brazil
example page 5 from our offline Travel Guide for Brazil
example page 6 from our offline Travel Guide for Brazil
example page 7 from our offline Travel Guide for Brazil
The digital guide (515 pages) contains:
✅ 152 highlights, ranked by travel appeal
✅ Optimized 14, 21 & 30-day travel routes
✅ Cities, national parks, landmarks, beaches
✅ How to get around
✅ Offline-friendly for travel without Wi-Fi
👉 Click to see all 30+ guide features

📅 Plan smarter in minutes, not weeks
✅ Month by month travel advice
✅ Festivals & national holidays
✅ Budget expectations

🗺️ Go to the right places, skip the overrated ones
✅ Honest pros & cons of destinations
✅ Top hikes, parks & viewpoints
✅ Lesser-known places most travelers miss
✅ Clear “worth it vs skip it” guidance

🛏️ Travel smoothly without rookie mistakes
✅ Best areas to stay
✅ Transport systems explained simply
✅ Common scams & safety advice
✅ SIM cards, money & practical tips

🌍 Understand the country, not just visit it
✅ Culture & traditions
✅ 52 Essential phrases & customs
✅ Festivals worth planning around
✅ Traveler-friendly historical context
✅ Insights that make places more meaningful

📱 Built for real travel conditions
✅ Fully downloadable PDF
✅ Works completely offline
✅ Optimized for phone use
✅ Useful in remote areas & buses
✅ Everything in one place
Save weeks of stressful planning
Get instant access to your full guide. 30‑day money-back guarantee.


By proceeding you agree to our terms.
Sent to your inbox immediately after payment • 100% Secure Checkout
Best Backpacking Travel Advisor 2025 tourism awardBest Backpacking
Travel Advisor
2025
What others say about Take Your Backpack Guides:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Fantastic, amazing amount of information!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
My goodness this is amazing, it's what I've been looking for hats off too you!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I think this is absolutely BRILLIANT
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Very complete and informative. It's still missing places, but I gotta to commend you
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is truly amazing, thank you, can't wait to explore it with my kids!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Awesome resource, thank you!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is amazing! Can't wait to explore the ones I haven't seen
⭐⭐⭐⭐
I love this! Well done, great idea.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thanks for taking the time to make this gem!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This might be the best website I've ever seen.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Congratulations, and thank you so much for your work; it's incredibly valuable.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
In all seriousness I think you did a great job pointing out the important spots
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
10/10 very good
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
As someone who's only just starting to visit regularly this is awesome, thank you.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thank you very much! I'm going to visit my dad, it's going to be very useful!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is really cool! We'll be travelling for the first time and this definitely come in handy.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
You are now our minister of culture, congratulations 👨‍💼
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Just wanted to tell you that this is a pearl! Going to follow your recommendations.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is so cool. I'll definitely be using the resource for my travels soon.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is very impressive! Good work.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is an amazing and informative site. Very well done!

🛏️ Where to stay?Best areas to stay in Brazil

Staying near the Christ the Redeemer statue can be a mixed bag. Crowds? Expect them. Costs? They can skyrocket, especially during peak tourist seasons. But don’t let that scare you off. There are areas that offer a genuine backpacker vibe without breaking the bank.

Start with Santa Teresa. This bohemian neighborhood is a maze of winding streets, colorful houses, and a laid-back atmosphere. It’s safe, and you’ll find plenty of social spots to meet fellow travelers. The views are killer, and the local art scene is vibrant. Plus, it’s just a short ride to the statue.

Then there’s Lapa. Known for … read more 👉
Staying near the Christ the Redeemer statue can be a mixed bag. Crowds? Expect them. Costs? They can skyrocket, especially during peak tourist seasons. But don’t let that scare you off. There are areas that offer a genuine backpacker vibe without breaking the bank.

Start with Santa Teresa. This bohemian neighborhood is a maze of winding streets, colorful houses, and a laid-back atmosphere. It’s safe, and you’ll find plenty of social spots to meet fellow travelers. The views are killer, and the local art scene is vibrant. Plus, it’s just a short ride to the statue.

Then there’s Lapa. Known for its nightlife, it’s a hub for backpackers looking to mingle. The iconic arches and samba clubs create an electric atmosphere. While it’s a bit further from the statue, the energy here makes it worth the trek. Just be mindful of your surroundings at night.

Lastly, consider Botafogo. This area strikes a balance between local life and tourist access. You’ll find affordable eateries and shops, plus it’s a quick metro ride to the statue. The beach is nearby, too, giving you a chance to unwind after a day of sightseeing.

These neighborhoods offer the real magic of Rio—authentic experiences, safety, and a chance to connect with others.
Best hostels in Brazil


Best quality hotels in Brazil

👛 Costs (as of 11 May 2026)How expensive it really is

Visiting the Christ the Redeemer Statue in Brazil can be a rewarding experience, but it comes with its own set of costs that you should be aware of.
  • Entrance Fee: Expect to pay around $15 to $20 USD for a ticket to the statue itself. This fee grants you access to the viewing platform and the statue, but keep in mind that prices can vary based on the season and whether you book in advance.
  • Transportation: Getting to the statue can add up. If you take a taxi or rideshare, budget around $15 to $30 USD each way from downtown Rio. Alternatively, the train option costs about $12 USD round trip, but it can be crowded, especially during peak hours.
  • Guided Tours: If you want a deeper dive into the history and significance of the statue, consider a guided tour. These typically range from $50 to $100 USD,
… read more 👉
Visiting the Christ the Redeemer Statue in Brazil can be a rewarding experience, but it comes with its own set of costs that you should be aware of.
  • Entrance Fee: Expect to pay around $15 to $20 USD for a ticket to the statue itself. This fee grants you access to the viewing platform and the statue, but keep in mind that prices can vary based on the season and whether you book in advance.
  • Transportation: Getting to the statue can add up. If you take a taxi or rideshare, budget around $15 to $30 USD each way from downtown Rio. Alternatively, the train option costs about $12 USD round trip, but it can be crowded, especially during peak hours.
  • Guided Tours: If you want a deeper dive into the history and significance of the statue, consider a guided tour. These typically range from $50 to $100 USD, depending on the inclusions like transportation and additional stops around the city.
  • Food and Drinks: There are limited dining options at the site, and prices can be inflated. A simple meal might cost you around $10 to $20 USD. If you want to save, consider packing snacks and water before you go.
  • Souvenirs: Don’t forget to budget for souvenirs. Small trinkets and postcards can range from $5 to $30 USD, depending on what you’re looking for. Prices can be steep, so it’s wise to set a limit.

Be prepared for crowds, especially during weekends and holidays. The experience is worth it, but knowing the costs upfront helps you plan better.
⚠️ Prices can change and everyone travels differently, so take this as a rough guide. Hope it helps you plan your adventure!

Other Brazilian landmarks near Christ the Redeemer Statue

Explore more nearby:


💡 Not sure where to go next?
Create a personalized itinerary for Brazil including Christ the Redeemer Statue and the places that fit your trip.

Generate my itinerary

👉 Discover all landmarks

Or checkout all Brazil has to offer (think cities, towns, villages, national parks, hikes, beaches, festivals)
Explore Brazil
Country photo of Brazil
© Google Images

We 💚 feedbackWhat to keep in mind

Standing beneath Christ the Redeemer, you can’t help but feel a mix of awe and humility. The panoramic views of Rio are breathtaking, and the statue itself radiates a sense of peace. But let’s be real: the crowds can be overwhelming, and the ticket prices are steep. If you’re willing to navigate the chaos, the experience is worth it. Just be prepared for a bit of hustle to soak in that magic.

✈️ When did I visit Brazil?
Call it good timing or luck, but I was able to celebrate Carnaval in Rio de Janeiro in February 2022, after a round trip in the north and east coast.

✍️ Help improve this page!
The information on this page is based on my own backpacking experience in Brazil, supplemented with up-to-date research and feedback from other travelers. Travel details can change, so if you notice anything outdated or incomplete, feel free to let me know.



🙋‍♂️ Give feedback

👋 Meet the founderWho’s Behind Take Your Backpack?

Johan, backpacker and founder of TakeYourBackpackHi, I’m Johan (Netherlands 🇳🇱), the creator of TakeYourBackpack. Over the past decade, I’ve backpacked through 80+ countries across six continents, gaining extensive experience with independent travel, long-term trips, and overland routes.

This site is built on a combination of firsthand travel experience and carefully curated insights from other backpackers. Many guides are based on places I’ve personally visited, while others bring together tips, observations, and practical advice shared by trusted travelers I’ve met along the way.

The goal is to provide realistic, experience-driven guidance — not generic itineraries — so you can explore destinations with better context, clearer expectations, and more confidence.

Read the full story
Get full Brazil guide •
Instant download • 152 highlights • Full Offline guide