Visiting Christ the Redeemer for first-timers

How often do you get to stand in proximity to a colossal monument of Jesus, with unparalleled views of the city of Rio de Janeiro below? I’m going to take a wild guess and say it’s probably a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

There’s a reason this statue is considered one of the New Seven Wonders of the World—nothing quite prepares you for the feeling of standing beneath it, face to face with history, faith, and a view that stretches all the way to the edge of the Atlantic. So if you’re planning your visit, here’s everything you need to know about experiencing Christ the Redeemer—starting with the fascinating history behind it.

History and facts 

Nestled atop the stunning Corcovado Mountain in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, at 2,300 feet above sea level, stands the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue at a height of 30 meters, as a symbol of faith, art, and breathtaking panoramic views. The Christ the Redeemer statue isn’t just an iconic symbol of Rio de Janeiro—it’s also part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The statue stands proudly within the “Rio de Janeiro: Carioca Landscapes between the Mountain and the Sea.” The area around the statue features dramatic mountains and lush greenery, which make the Christ the Redeemer statue even more breathtaking.

Situated within the expansive Tijuca Forest National Park, the erection of this monumental structure unfolded over a nine-year span, commencing in 1922 and reaching completion in 1931.

Inaugurated on October 12, 1931, it has since become one of the New Seven Wonders of the World drawing in hundreds of thousands of visitors every year. 

The monument was created by Paul Landowksi and engineered by Heitor da Silva Costa, with contributions from French sculptor Gheorghe Leonida. With open arms spanning 28 meters wide, the statue gazes upon the city of Rio, symbolizing a gesture of protection and peace.

best time to visit

The best time to visit Christ the Redeemer is during the drier months from May to September, when the skies are typically clearer and the panoramic views are at their best. These months fall within Rio’s dry season, making it easier to avoid the rain and capture stunning photos.

For the most stress-free experience, aim to arrive early in the morning, right after the monument opens, when the lighting is softer and the crowds are thinner. Keep in mind that while the dry season offers better weather, it also attracts more tourists—especially during summer months, weekends, holidays, and events like Carnaval—so plan accordingly if you prefer a quieter visit.

how to get there

There’s three main ways to get to Christ the Redeemer. You can get there by train, by van, taxi, or ride-sharing, or by hiking. 

by train

Taking the train to Christ the Redeemer is easily one of the most popular—and scenic—ways to reach the top. The Corcovado Train departs from the charming Cosme Velho neighborhood and winds its way up through the lush greenery of Tijuca National Park. It’s not just transportation; it’s part of the experience. The ride lasts about 20 minutes and offers postcard-worthy views of the Atlantic Forest and glimpses of Rio sprawling out below. It’s no surprise many visitors say it’s one of the highlights of their trip.

Trains run daily from 8:30 AM to 6:30 PM, with departures roughly every 30 minutes. But heads up: there’s a daily visitor quota and timed entry system in place, so you’ll need to book your ticket in advance and select a time slot. This helps keep the experience enjoyable for everyone—no massive crowds, just you, the forest, and one of the most iconic monuments in the world.

By Van, Taxi, or Ride-sharing

If you’re looking for a more direct or private way to get close to Christ the Redeemer, you can take a van, taxi, or rideshare like Uber to one of the designated access points. Just know that you can’t drive all the way to the top yourself.

For the final stretch up to the statue, everyone has to hop on one of the official vans or take the train—it’s the only way up!

By Hike

Yes, you can hike up to Christ the Redeemer—but it’s not for everyone. The most popular trail starts at Parque Lage and winds through the Tijuca National Forest, taking about 2 to 3 hours depending on your pace. It’s a physically demanding hike with steep, rugged terrain, so it’s definitely not beginner-friendly. If you’re up for the challenge, make sure to wear proper hiking boots, pack plenty of water, and be prepared for limited facilities along the way.

That said, in recent years, safety concerns have grown. There have been reports of muggings along the trail, so if you do choose to hike, stay aware of your surroundings and avoid bringing anything valuable with you. For most visitors, taking the train is a safer, easier, and more sustainable way to reach the top—plus, it still gives you those incredible rainforest views without the effort (or risk).

tour hours, Pricing, and Location

Hours of Operation: Christ the Redeemer tours typically run daily, with hotel pick-up in Rio (Copacabana, Ipanema, etc.) beginning around 7:00–8:00 AM, depending on the tour provider. Most tours wrap up by early afternoon if it’s a half-day, or early evening if combined with other landmarks like Sugarloaf Mountain.
Pricing: Tours range from $20 to $90 USD per person, depending on inclusions like skip-the-line tickets, hotel transfers, or combo packages. You can book through platforms like Viator or directly with local tour providers.
Duration: A standalone visit to Christ the Redeemer usually takes about 2–3 hours. If part of a full-day tour including Sugarloaf Mountain and the Selarón Steps, expect a total duration of 6–8 hours.
Location: Christ the Redeemer sits atop Corcovado Mountain in Rio de Janeiro and can be reached by van, cog train, or private transfer. Most tours include hotel pick-up and drop-off from central Rio neighborhoods like Copacabana, Ipanema, and Lapa.

can you go inside?

While you can’t go inside the Christ the Redeemer statue itself, the base of the monument holds a small, serene chapel tucked behind it.

This chapel is beautifully adorned and offers a quiet moment for reflection. There’s also a prayer box inside where visitors can leave personal intentions or requests.

Photo Tips

For the best full-body shot of the statue, stand directly in front at ground level to capture a clean, symmetrical view. If you’re taking photos from the side, tilt your camera downward from the base upward to get the most flattering angle.

Arriving right at opening time is your best bet to avoid the crowds and snap photos without dozens of tourists in the background. If you’re visiting solo, bring a wide-angle lens or a selfie stick to capture both yourself and the stunning monument in one frame. The panoramic platform in front of the statue offers the best views of Rio de Janeiro and fantastic photo opportunities with the statue. There are also several vantage points around the site that provide stunning backdrops for your pictures.

What to bring, safety, and on-site amenities

There’s no official dress code for visiting Christ the Redeemer, but comfort is key. Wear breathable clothes and sturdy walking shoes—there are stairs and a bit of uphill walking involved. Since the weather in Rio can be unpredictable, layering is a smart move in case it gets chilly or starts to drizzle.

As for safety, the site is generally secure, especially during daylight hours. Still, it’s a busy tourist spot, so be mindful of your belongings and avoid bringing anything too valuable. The statue remains open on cloudy or rainy days, but just know the views might not be as clear when the weather isn’t cooperating.

Once you’re at the top, you’ll find a small café near the base of the statue if you need a quick snack or drink. Restrooms are also available close to the viewing platform for your convenience. Just a heads-up—there’s no direct parking at the summit. If you’re driving, you’ll need to park near the Corcovado train station or van departure points and make your way up from there. Public transport is often the easiest and most stress-free option.

Looking for another UNESCO World Heritage Site to add to your bucket list? Discover the most colorful city and island in the Caribbean and find out The Strange Reason Why Curacao is So Colorful.