English
BRL
Language
Currency
Contents

Visit Cristo Redentor | Your ultimate guide

Christ the Redeemer | Visitor information at a glance

Christ the Redeemer's opening hours

What are Christ the Redeemer's opening hours?
Christ the Redeemer is open daily from 8am to 6pm.

When is Christ the Redeemer closed?
Christ the Redeemer is open every day of the year. However, operations may be affected by extreme weather conditions.

How long does it take to visit Christ the Redeemer?
A visit to Christ the Redeemer typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours, including time spent at the summit enjoying the views.

More about Christ the Redeemer's timings

What's the best time to visit Christ the Redeemer

Weekdays vs. Weekends

Visiting on a weekday is highly recommended as the crowds are smaller, making for a more relaxed experience. Mornings, especially right after opening at 8am, offer the best chance to enjoy the site with minimal waiting times. From noon to 3pm can get busier, but is still more manageable when compared to the weekends.

Sundays tend to be the busiest, attracting both tourists and locals. Expect longer wait times for the Corcovado Train and official vans, as well as more congestion at the viewing platform. 

Peak Season vs. Low Season

The peak season (December to March) coincides with Brazil’s summer and the holiday period, drawing large crowds to Christ the Redeemer. Expect long queues, high temperatures, and occasional rain showers. 

The low season (April to November) offers a more comfortable experience, with fewer tourists and shorter waiting times. The weather is milder, with clearer skies and lower humidity, making it an excellent time for photography and sightseeing. May to September, in particular, provides the best balance of good weather and fewer crowds.

Christ the Redeemer location

How to visit Christ the Redeemer

By Train

Closest Station: Corcovado Station

The Corcovado Train is the most scenic way to reach Christ the Redeemer, a 20-minute ride through Tijuca National Park with stunning, panoramic views along the way. The train departs from Cosme Velho Station and ends at Corcovado Station. Since this is a popular choice, it’s recommended to book tickets in advance to secure your spot. Upon arrival at the top, visitors can take an escalator or elevator to reach the statue or climb a short flight of stairs for the final ascent.

By Van

Boarding Points: Copacabana (Praça do Lido) and Largo do Machado

Official vans offer a convenient and flexible way to reach Christ the Redeemer, departing from Copacabana (Praça do Lido) and Largo do Machado. These vans run more frequently than the train and are a faster option, especially during peak hours. The vans take passengers to Estrada das Paineiras, where they must transfer to another van operated by the park to reach the summit. This is the only authorized road transport to the monument, as private vehicles and taxis are not allowed beyond a certain point.

By Car

End point: Estrada das Paineiras

Private vehicles, taxis, and ride-sharing services can only go as far as Estrada das Paineiras, where they must stop at the Paineiras Visitor Center. From here, visitors must hike uphill for 10 minutes to reach Christ the Redeemer, as private vehicles are not allowed beyond this point. There is no parking at the summit, so if you're driving, be prepared to park at Paineiras and hike for 10 minutes. 

By Hiking

Starting point: Parque Lage

For adventurous visitors, hiking to Christ the Redeemer is a rewarding experience. The most popular route is the Tijuca Forest Trail, starting from Parque Lage. The hike is about 2.5 hours long, with a challenging ascent through lush rainforest, offering glimpses of Rio’s skyline along the way. The trail is best attempted in the morning to avoid the midday heat and should always be done in a group for safety, as parts of the forest can be isolated

Parking at Christ the Redeemer 

There is no parking at Christ the Redeemer, which is why booking tickets with round-trip transfers included is recommended 

  • No parking at the summit: There is no parking available at the Christ the Redeemer statue itself. Private vehicles are not allowed beyond Estrada das Paineiras.
  • Limited parking spaces: Parking at Paineiras is limited, especially during peak hours, so arriving early is recommended.
  • Alternative parking: If Paineiras is full, you may need to park further away and take a taxi, van, or ride-share to the visitor center.
  • Tijuca National Park restrictions: Due to environmental preservation efforts, private vehicles are restricted beyond certain points within the park.

More about Christ the Redeemer

Know before you go to Christ the Redeemer

Facilities
Accessibility
Visiting with family
Rules & regulations
  • Restrooms: Available at the visitor center and near the statue.
  • Food & Drinks: Small cafés and kiosks offering snacks, drinks, and light meals.
  • Souvenir Shops: Official stores sell Christ the Redeemer-themed souvenirs and religious artifacts.
  • Seating Areas: Limited benches are available near the statue for resting.
  • Photography Spots: Several scenic viewpoints for capturing Rio’s breathtaking landscape.
  • Elevators & Escalators: Available from the final van or train stop to the statue.
  • Wheelchair Access: The site is wheelchair-friendly, with ramps and lifts for easy movement.
  • Assistance Services: Staff is available to assist visitors with mobility challenges.
  • Accessible Transport: Official vans are more suitable for wheelchair users than the train.
  • Kid-Friendly Experience: Safe and suitable for children, but some areas have steep steps.
  • Stroller Access: Limited due to stairs; baby carriers are a better option.
  • Photo Opportunities: Great family photo spots with panoramic city views.
  • Food Options: Limited selection of snacks and beverages, so bringing snacks and drinks for kids is advisable.
  • Crowds & Timing: Visit early to avoid long queues and large crowds, especially with young children.
  • Drone usage is prohibited due to safety and security reasons.
  • Large backpacks and luggage are not allowed for security purposes.
  • Smoking is strictly prohibited within the premises.
  • As a religious site, visitors should be respectful and avoid loud or disruptive behavior
  •  May require prior permission for professional photography.
  • Dispose of waste properly to help preserve the environment

Frequently asked questions about visiting Christ the Redeemer

How do I get to Christ the Redeemer?

You can reach Christ the Redeemer by train from Cosme Velho, by van from locations like Copacabana or Largo do Machado, or by hiking through Tijuca National Forest.

Are there any restrictions on visiting times based on my ticket?

It is advisable to arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled visit time. There is a tolerance of up to 15 minutes for delays.

What’s the best time to visit Christ the Redeemer?

To avoid crowds, it's best to visit early in the morning around 8am. However, visiting at around  5 pm  offers beautiful sunset views

How long does a visit take?

A visit typically takes 2 to 3 hours, including travel time. If visiting during peak hours, expect longer wait times at the train or van boarding points.

Can I bring pets to Christ the Redeemer?

Pets are not allowed at Christ the Redeemer, except for guide dogs with proper documentation.

Is Christ the Redeemer accessible for people with disabilities?

Yes, the site is wheelchair-friendly with elevators, escalators, and ramps. Vans are a better option than the train for visitors with mobility challenges.

Are there food and drink options at the site?

There are small cafés and kiosks offering snacks, sandwiches, and beverages. Bringing water and light snacks is recommended as the selection is limited. 

What should I wear when visiting Christ the Redeemer?

Wear comfortable shoes as there are steps to reach the viewing platform. Light clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen are recommended due to Rio’s warm weather.

Can I visit Christ the Redeemer at night?

No, the site closes at 6pm, but the statue is illuminated at night and can be admired from various viewpoints in Rio.

Is it safe to visit Christ the Redeemer?

Yes, the attraction itself is safe, but be cautious of pickpockets at busy areas like train stations and van boarding points. Keep valuables secure and avoid displaying expensive items.