The Corcovado Train offers a spectacular ride through Tijuca National Park to the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue, combining natural beauty, historical significance, and one of the most magnificent views of Rio de Janeiro.
Highlights
- Journey through the world’s largest urban forest on Brazil’s first electrified railroad dating back to 1884.
- Marvel at the panoramic views of Rio de Janeiro, Sugarloaf Mountain, and Guanabara Bay from the summit.
- Stand beneath the colossal Christ the Redeemer statue, one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World.
Tickets & Prices
Snagging tickets for the Corcovado Train is your first step toward one of Rio’s most unforgettable experiences.
I strongly recommend booking online before your trip – I once spent two hours in the scorching Brazilian sun because I hadn’t planned ahead during Carnival season!
The train runs on a timed-entry system with departures throughout the day, and your ticket covers both the scenic journey and access to Christ the Redeemer at the top.
Kids between 5-11 get a nice discount, while the little ones under 4 ride free. If you’re traveling during high season (December-March), booking at least a week ahead will save you loads of hassle.
Tours
Want the full Rio experience without the logistical headaches? Several tour operators combine the Corcovado Train with Sugarloaf Mountain – I did this on my first visit and it was worth every real.
You’ll zip between Rio’s two most iconic sights in a single day with an air-conditioned ride from your hotel (if you’re staying in Copacabana, Leme, Ipanema, or Leblon).
The guides speak multiple languages and share fascinating tidbits about Rio you won’t find in guidebooks. These five-hour tours aren’t just convenient; they’re like getting a crash course in Carioca culture while someone else handles the notorious Rio traffic.
Opening Hours
The Corcovado Train chugs up and down the mountain daily year-round. Early birds can catch the first departure around 8:00 AM, while the last train down typically leaves before sunset.
During my January visit, I caught the 8:30 AM train and had almost an hour at the top before the midday crowds arrived – absolute magic! If you’re hoping for those postcard-perfect photos, morning is your best bet; afternoon clouds have a habit of rolling in and playing hide-and-seek with the statue.
The train runs more frequently during summer and holidays, but even in low season, you’ll have plenty of options throughout the day.
What to See and Do
There are numerous things to do that will make your visit unforgettable.
Ride Through Brazil’s Historic Railway
When you board the Corcovado Train, you’re stepping onto a piece of Brazilian history. This isn’t just any train ride – it’s a journey on Brazil’s first electrified railroad, inaugurated by Emperor Dom Pedro II himself back in 1884. The bright red carriages have been modernized but still maintain their vintage charm as they wind through the lush Atlantic Forest.
The 20-minute journey ascends 3.8 kilometers up Corcovado Mountain, climbing 710 meters through one of the most beautiful urban forests in the world. The train was actually used to transport materials for building the Christ statue in the 1920s, so you’re literally following the same path as the statue’s components!
Pro tip: Try to get a seat on the right side of the train when ascending for the best views of the forest and glimpses of Rio below.
Explore the Majestic Tijuca Forest
The train chugs through a verdant corridor in Tijuca National Park, the largest urban forest on the planet. This isn’t some distant wilderness – it’s right in the heart of Rio! The park spans 32 square kilometers and is home to hundreds of species of plants and animals.
As you ascend, keep your eyes peeled for colorful butterflies, tiny monkeys swinging from branches, and exotic birds darting between trees. The dense greenery surrounding the tracks provides welcome shade and cooler temperatures compared to the city below.
What many tourists don’t realize is that this entire forest was actually replanted by hand in the late 19th century after the original Atlantic Forest was cut down for coffee plantations. It’s one of the world’s most successful reforestation projects!
Gaze Up at the Iconic Christ Statue
When you finally reach the summit, you’ll understand why millions make this journey each year. Standing at 98 feet tall atop a 26-foot pedestal, the Art Deco statue of Christ with outstretched arms has become not just the symbol of Rio but of Brazil itself.
Completed in 1931 and constructed of reinforced concrete and soapstone, the statue is more impressive up close than you can imagine. The scale is truly humbling – those arms span 92 feet from fingertip to fingertip!
The platform around the statue offers 360-degree views that will leave you speechless. On clear days, you can see Sugarloaf Mountain, Guanabara Bay, Copacabana and Ipanema beaches, and the entire sprawling cityscape of Rio below.
Discover the Hidden Museum Beneath
Many visitors rush straight to the statue and miss the small but informative museum located beneath the monument. Take some time to explore the exhibits that tell the fascinating story of the statue’s construction.
You’ll see original designs, photographs of the building process, and learn about the engineering challenges that were overcome.
Inside tip: The chapel inside the base of the statue is often overlooked. This tiny consecrated space can accommodate about 150 people and occasionally hosts weddings and baptisms – imagine saying “I do” inside one of the world’s most famous monuments!
Capture Breathtaking Photos from Unique Angles
Let’s be honest – everyone wants that perfect shot with Christ the Redeemer. For the classic tourist photo of you with outstretched arms mimicking the statue, head to the viewing platform on the left side as you exit the train.
For photographers wanting something more unique, try these angles:
- Early morning light casts a beautiful glow on the statue’s eastern side
- Shoot upward from the base for a dramatic perspective
- Frame the statue with the lush forest in the foreground from one of the side viewpoints
Remember that clouds can roll in quickly at this elevation, sometimes obscuring the view entirely.
If you arrive and find the statue shrouded in mist, wait around if you can – the clouds often part momentarily, creating dramatic photo opportunities as the statue emerges from the clouds.
Directions
Finding your way to the Corcovado Train is half the adventure! The station is tucked away in the leafy Cosme Velho neighborhood at Rua Cosme Velho, 513. I usually recommend taking the metro to Largo do Machado, then hopping on the special subway bus that drops you right at the station – it runs every 15-20 minutes and saves you the hassle of explaining directions to taxi drivers.
If you’re feeling adventurous, Uber works perfectly in Rio and costs about R$25-30 from Copacabana. Don’t bother driving – parking is limited and the narrow streets can be a nightmare to navigate.
Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure to collect tickets and board. The station itself is small but well-marked, with a few snack kiosks perfect for grabbing water before the journey up.
Nearby Places
Parque Lage: This stunning public park sits at the foot of Corcovado Mountain and features a historic mansion transformed into an art school. The elegant courtyard café offers breakfast with a perfect view of Christ the Redeemer framed by the mansion’s architecture.
Botanical Garden of Rio de Janeiro: Just a short distance from the Corcovado train station, this 200-year-old garden spans 140 hectares and houses more than 6,500 species of plants and trees, including an impressive avenue of royal palms.
Santa Teresa: This bohemian hilltop neighborhood is known for its winding streets, artistic atmosphere, and historic yellow tram. Visitors can explore art galleries, craft shops, and enjoy panoramic views of Rio from this charming district.
Largo do Boticário: This hidden colonial square features colorful historic buildings dating back to the 19th century. Recently restored, it offers a peaceful retreat and a glimpse into Rio’s architectural past.
Vista Chinesa: Located within Tijuca Forest, this Chinese-style gazebo viewpoint offers spectacular panoramic views of Rio’s South Zone, Sugarloaf Mountain, and Guanabara Bay from a different perspective than Christ the Redeemer.
Did you know that: (5 Interesting Facts!)
- The Corcovado Railroad was the first electrified railroad in Brazil, inaugurated in 1884 by Emperor Dom Pedro II, nearly 50 years before the Christ the Redeemer statue was constructed.
- For four consecutive years, the Corcovado Train transported the materials used to build the Christ the Redeemer statue, piece by piece, up the mountain – imagine hauling those massive arms around those tight curves!
- The name “Corcovado” means “hunchback” in Portuguese, referring to the mountain’s distinctive shape that resembles a person with a hunched back when viewed from certain angles along Rio’s coastline.
- The original train used steam engines when it first opened in 1884, but was electrified in 1910, making it an environmentally friendly form of transportation even over a century ago – way ahead of its time!
- During its 140+ year history, the train has carried over 50 million visitors, including numerous celebrities, world leaders, and even popes to the summit of Corcovado Mountain. The guest book reads like a who’s who of global figures!
History:
- 1884: The Corcovado Railroad is inaugurated by Emperor Dom Pedro II, initially using steam locomotives to carry visitors up the mountain.
- 1910: The railroad is electrified, becoming Brazil’s first electric railway.
- 1924: Construction begins on the Christ the Redeemer statue at the summit of Corcovado Mountain.
- 1926-1930: The Corcovado Train plays a crucial role in transporting materials and workers for the construction of the Christ statue.
- 1931: The Christ the Redeemer statue is officially unveiled, increasing the popularity of the train journey.
- 1973: The train system undergoes its first major renovation, with new Swiss-made carriages introduced.
- 1980: Corcovado Mountain and its surroundings are designated as part of Tijuca National Park.
- 2007: Christ the Redeemer is named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, leading to a significant increase in visitors to the train.
- 2011: The Corcovado Train celebrates 100 million passengers since its inauguration.
- 2019: New, modern trains with panoramic windows are introduced to enhance the visitor experience.
FAQ
How long is the Corcovado Train ride?
The train journey takes approximately 20 minutes each way, climbing steadily through Tijuca National Park to reach the summit of Corcovado Mountain where Christ the Redeemer stands.
Is it better to take the train or a van to Christ the Redeemer?
The train offers a more scenic and historical experience through the lush Atlantic Forest. While vans may be faster, the train journey is considered part of the attraction and provides unique views unavailable by road.
Can I buy Corcovado Train tickets on the day of visit?
Same-day tickets are available, but booking in advance is strongly recommended, especially during high season (December-March). The train operates on a timed entry system and popular time slots sell out quickly.
Is the Corcovado Train accessible for people with disabilities?
Yes, the Corcovado Train and Christ the Redeemer site are wheelchair accessible. The train has designated spaces for wheelchairs, and elevators are available at the summit to reach the statue’s viewing platform.