Christ the Redeemer opens daily from 8 AM to 7 PM, every day of the year including holidays. The monument maintains consistent hours year-round, though transport schedules and weather can affect actual visiting times.
Transport Schedules
Corcovado Train:
- First departure: 8 AM
- Last ascent: 5 PM
- Final descent: 7 PM
- Frequency: Every 30 minutes (more frequent during peak season)
Official Vans: Run similar hours to the train with slightly more flexible scheduling throughout the day.
Both options allow last entry around 5 PM, giving visitors roughly two hours at the summit before closing.
Best Times to Visit
Early Morning (8-10 AM): Cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and soft morning light for photography. The first train at 8 AM delivers the quietest experience.
Late Afternoon (3-5 PM): Warmer lighting as the sun lowers, though expect larger crowds. Last entry cuts off around 5 PM regardless of season.
Weekdays vs Weekends: Weekdays see noticeably fewer visitors. Weekends and Brazilian holidays bring peak crowds.
Christ the Redeemer Tickets
Rio tickets sell out quickly. We recommend booking your tickets online as early as possible. Here’s a brief overview of the different ticket options:
Entry Ticket by Corcovado Train (bestseller): Experience a scenic train journey through Tijuca Forest to Brazil’s most iconic landmark. Marvel at panoramic views of Rio from the base of this Modern World Wonder.
6-Stop Highlights Tour with Lunch (#1 rated day trip): The complete Rio experience with visits to all major attractions including Maracanã Stadium and Sambadrome. Includes a delicious Brazilian buffet lunch and expert multilingual guides.
Christ the Redeemer, Selarón Steps & Sugarloaf Sunset: Enjoy the magical sunset from Sugarloaf Mountain after visiting Christ the Redeemer and the colorful Selarón Steps. This 6-hour tour includes hotel transportation and a professional guide.
(All tickets include access to Christ the Redeemer)
We recommend booking through GetYourGuide or Tiqets to increase your chances of finding a ticket for your preferred dates.
Seasonal Variations
Peak season (December-March) can see extended hours during major holidays like Carnival, New Year’s, and Christmas. Off-season (April-November) maintains standard hours but may have reduced train frequency.
Weather can force early closures or delayed openings. Heavy rain, storms, or thick fog sometimes restrict platform access or close the monument entirely for safety.
Special Access
Limited sunrise and sunset tours occasionally offer entry before 8 AM or after 7 PM. These slots require advance booking through specific tour operators and sell out quickly.
Standard tickets don’t include early or late access. If you want sunrise views, book a specialized tour or visit Mirante Dona Marta viewpoint instead.
Holiday Schedule
Christ the Redeemer stays open on all Brazilian holidays, including:
- New Year’s Day
- Carnival
- Good Friday
- Christmas Day
- Independence Day (September 7)
Hours may extend or shift slightly on these dates. Check the official website a day or two before visiting during holiday periods.
Planning Tips
- Book online: Select specific time slots to avoid ticket office queues
- Arrive 30 minutes early: Security checks and boarding can take time
- Check weather: Morning fog or afternoon clouds can obscure views completely
- Verify hours: Confirm current schedules on the official site before traveling
- Last entry matters: Plan to arrive by 4:30 PM if taking the 5 PM final ascent
When to Avoid
Brazilian summer holidays (December-February), weekends, and major holidays bring the largest crowds. If you want a quieter experience, visit during shoulder months (March-June, August-November) on weekday mornings.
Rainy season (December-March) increases the chance of weather-related closures or poor visibility.
FAQ
What time does Christ the Redeemer open?
Christ the Redeemer opens daily at 8 AM. The first Corcovado Train departs at 8 AM, and official vans begin running around the same time.
What time does Christ the Redeemer close?
The monument closes at 7 PM daily. Last entry via train or van is around 5 PM, allowing visitors two hours at the summit before closing.
Is Christ the Redeemer open on holidays?
Yes, the monument stays open every day of the year including all Brazilian holidays. Hours may be extended during major celebrations like Carnival or New Year’s.
Can I visit Christ the Redeemer at sunrise or sunset?
Standard tickets don’t include sunrise or sunset access. The monument opens at 8 AM (after sunrise) and closes at 7 PM (usually before or around sunset depending on season). Some specialized tours offer early or late entry, but these require advance booking and cost more.
What happens if weather is bad?
Heavy rain, storms, or thick fog can force early closures or delayed openings. The monument may restrict platform access or close entirely for safety. Check the official website or call ahead if weather looks questionable.
How early should I arrive?
Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled train or van departure. Security checks, ticket verification, and boarding take time, especially during busy periods.
Do opening hours change seasonally?
Standard hours (8 AM to 7 PM) remain consistent year-round. Train and van frequency may increase during peak season (December-March) and decrease in off-season, but core operating hours don’t shift.
Can I stay past closing time?
No. The last descent begins around 7 PM and all visitors must leave. Security ensures the monument empties before nighttime.