Corcovado

Description:

• The price is a bit steep but then so is the rail line, its narrow gauge winding upward past hillside shacks, through trees and tangled rainforest creepers, up and ever up, yea unto to the very feet of Christ. A stylish Art Deco Christ, 30m (98 ft.) high on a mountaintop 710m (2,329 ft.) above sea level. Recently, the Corcovado was chosen as one of the new Seven Wonders of the World. The view from his toes is definitely worth the money. The mountains, the bay, and the city all lay revealed beneath your feet. It's enough to give you a feeling of omniscience. The statue was originally intended to mark the 100th anniversary of Brazilian independence in 1922, but due to a funding shortfall, it didn't open until 1931. At the peak station there's a small refreshment and souvenir stand, but not much else. A pair of escalators whisks you up to the base of the statue. Allow about 2 hours round-trip, including time spent gazing at the glory that is Rio. Note that touts at the ground station will almost certainly approach you offering a bus trip to the Corcovado plus another viewpoint a little lower down for R$30 (US$15/£8) or whatever price you can bargain with them. Though it's not a bad deal, you do miss out on the nifty train ride.

• © Frommer's 2012

Awards:

Frommer's

•  Very Highly Recommended 2010