In our seventies, we embarked on a thrilling self-guided adventure through Rio de Janeiro, riding buses and hiking to the summit of Christ the Redeemer!
This morning, after a hearty breakfast, we strolled for eight minutes to the 309 bus stop, ready to tackle the park’s famous hike. The bus fare was an affordable 4.7 Brazilian reais per person, and after 33 stops, we arrived smoothly at the park entrance.
At the base of the mountain, we were greeted by police officers guarding the trailhead. They warned us that the path ahead was grueling—a three-to-four-kilometer trek—and suggested taking the scenic little train instead. However, determined adventurers that we are, we insisted on hiking. After some negotiation, a policewoman allowed me to proceed after I registered my details.
I beckoned my spouse to join me, but the officers interjected, saying, “He won’t make it; the trail is too tough—it’s all forest.” Unconvinced, my spouse asked if there were snakes or whether the terrain was particularly challenging. The officers’ responses came with a hint of provocation, but we decided to give it a shot anyway.
The mountain trail lived up to its reputation—winding, steep, and occasionally muddy—but the breathtaking views made every step worthwhile. Surrounded by lush tropical rainforest, the moist air invigorated our spirits. Though the climb was demanding, the stunning vistas along the way softened the fatigue.
After two and a half hours of perseverance, we finally reached the summit! Originally priced at 220 Brazilian reais per ticket, the staff kindly waived the fee upon checking our passports, as seniors visit for free. This unexpected savings felt like a stroke of luck.
At the top, we indulged in a refreshing Coca-Cola, icy water, and crispy French fries from the kiosk, spending 80 Brazilian reais in total. We rested, savoring the panoramic views while snapping photos. Despite the crowds making it tricky to capture unobstructed shots, the joy of being there was undeniable.
For the descent, we opted for the small train, which cost 34 Brazilian reais per person and took just 30 minutes to bring us back to the base. As we prepared to catch the bus home, I realized my phone had lost data connectivity, leaving me momentarily anxious about navigating. Thankfully, the signal returned quickly, allowing us to board the 422 bus.
However, due to the language barrier, I misunderstood the stop name. Fortunately, several kind-hearted passengers stepped in to assist us, explaining in broken English and gestures despite the communication challenges. Their efforts ensured we found the correct stop, leaving us deeply moved by their kindness.
We returned to our accommodation at 3 PM. Along the way, we picked up some delicious street food for dinner, as venturing out at night isn’t entirely safe. Today’s 5.8-kilometer hike left us both exhausted and exhilarated. To top it off, the hotel upgraded us to a quieter room, ensuring we could rest well. Tomorrow, we’re setting our sights on Sugarloaf Mountain!
