Rio de Janeiro: Garganta do Céu Hike & Sorimã Waterfall Swim

Hiking Pedra da Gávea’s secret trail for city views and waterfall swims

You’ll hike a wild forest trail above Rio with a local guide, scramble up to Garganta do Céu for rare panoramic city views, then cool off with a swim in Sorimã Waterfall before heading back down through Tijuca’s greenery. Expect muddy shoes, honest stories, and moments you’ll replay long after you’re home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Hike to viewpoint and waterfall swim

• Start uphill hike in Tijuca Park
• Reach Garganta do Céu viewpoint
• Enjoy panoramic city views
• Descend to Sorimã Waterfall
• Swim in refreshing waterfall
• Return from trail

The Experience

I forgot my bug spray, which seemed like a tiny mistake until we were halfway up the trail and the mosquitoes started their ambush. Our guide, Rafael, just grinned and handed me some extra — apparently, he’s seen this happen before. The path through Tijuca’s Atlantic Forest was muddy in places, roots everywhere, but honestly, it felt good to get dirty for once. I could hear birds I didn’t recognize and something that might’ve been a monkey (Rafael said it probably was). There weren’t any crowds — just us, the trees, and that thick green smell you only get after rain.

The climb to Garganta do Céu isn’t exactly easy. There’s this one section where you have to scramble a bit — my hands still have tiny scrapes from grabbing at rocks. But then you hit the top and suddenly Rio is just there: Christ the Redeemer off in the mist, Sugarloaf poking out over the bay, beaches curling around the city like someone painted them on. I tried to take a photo but ended up just sitting down for a while instead. Rafael pointed out neighborhoods below and told us how his grandfather used to hike here as a kid. Funny how locals see these places so differently.

After all that sweat (and swearing), plunging into Sorimã Waterfall was ridiculous relief. The water’s cold enough to make you yelp — I did — but it wakes you right up. There was nobody else around except us and some butterflies flickering over the pool. We ate snacks on a wet rock; my sandwich got soggy but I didn’t care much. On the way back down, Rafael showed us this plant that closes its leaves when you touch it — I forget what it’s called now. Still think about that view sometimes when I’m stuck in traffic at home.

Top questions

How difficult is the Garganta do Céu hike?

The trail is moderately to difficult with steep sections and some scrambling required; good fitness is recommended.

Is swimming at Sorimã Waterfall included?

Yes, after reaching Garganta do Céu viewpoint you'll stop for a swim at Sorimã Waterfall.

Are there crowds on this Pedra da Gávea hike?

No, this route is little-known and usually free from tourist crowds.

Is pickup included for this day trip?

No hotel pickup is included but public transportation options are nearby.

Will there be photos or videos taken during the tour?

Yes, photos and videos are included throughout the experience.

Is this tour suitable for beginners or families?

This hike requires moderate fitness; it's not recommended for beginners or travelers with health issues.

Can infants join this tour?

Infants can come but must sit on an adult's lap; however, due to difficulty it's not ideal for young children.

What should I bring for the hike?

You should bring water, snacks, comfortable shoes, bug spray, and clothes suitable for hiking and swimming.

What’s included

Your day includes an accredited local guide who shares stories along the way plus first aid support if needed; photos and videos are captured throughout your experience so you don’t have to worry about missing those big moments—just ask your guide if you want drone footage (not included in price).