See the Harbour of Rio de Janeiro

Harbour of Rio de Janeiro

Also known as Guanabara Bay, is an oceanic bay located in Southeast Brazil in the state of Rio de Janeiro. One of the seven natural wonders of the world, it was formed by the Atlantic Ocean pounding away at the rocks and soil, forming this beautiful natural harbour.

Mountains

The harbour is surrounded by gorgeous granite mountains, including being the famous Sugar Loaf Mountain (1296ft/395m), Corcovado Peak (2310ft/704m) and the hills of Tijuca (3350ft/1021m).

Visitors will also experience numerous islands including Governor’s island, Fundao and Snakes Island. The bay is roughly 159 square miles 9412 sq kilometres), with a perimeter of 89 miles (143 kilometres).

The mountains are a part of a mountain chain (Serra do Mar) that runs 931 miles (1500 kilometres) along the coast of South America

The bay has some of the most fantastic white sand beaches and crystal clear waters. It is also home the renowned statue of Christ the Redeemer which stands tall, overlooking the city from its position up on Corcovado Mountain.

What are good ways to see the Harbour

You can get great views of the harbour on a helicopter ride, or you can also take a cable car up to the top of Sugar Loaf Mountain. For those searching for a little more adventure, you could always jump on a hang glider.

Boaters, or those that like to be on the water, can actually get out on a boat to explore the harbor from her waterways. The harbor features a series of islands that boating will allow you to get closer looks.

When is the best time to visit the Harbor of Rio de Janeiro?

September and October are the best months to visit the Harbour of Rio de Janeiro. The weather is fairly nice and the crowds are not as big that come with the summer months.

If you reason to go is the beaches, then coming a little later will provide you with the hot months of November through January. These are popular months and the crowds on the beaches reflect the popularity.

Sugar Loaf Mountain should be done in the morning as early as possible. The sun will be behind you as you look back towards the city, beaches, and Corcovado. Corcovado should be explored in the afternoon.

The morning view will be gazing right into the rising sun and make for poor pictures and hard to view scenes. The afternoon moves the sun off to the side allowing for better views of the city, Sugar Loaf Mountain, and the harbor of Rio de Janeiro.

Check out Kuoni for holiday suggestions to Rio