Christ! What views

I hate ticking things off of a travel list but this iconic statue drew me in. Religious or not, Christ the Redeemer is really one of those things that you can’t and shouldn’t miss whilst in Rio de Janeiro. If nothing else, the views that show the city sprawl in amongst islands and beaches are worth the trip alone.

Christ the Redeemer statue, Rio de Janeiro

Views from Christ the Redeemer, Rio de Janeiro

Built between 1922 and 1931 and set within the Parque Nacional da Tijuca, Cristo Redentor is a popular guy. On this sunny day in March, despite it not being a busy day, it still felt packed. Good luck getting a photo without extras in the background.

Crowds at Christ the Redeemer, Rio de Janeiro

From various viewpoints spot the famous Maracanã stadium, Rio’s largest favela of Rocinha, Sugar Loaf mountain and Copocabana and Ipenema beaches stretching off into the distance. Politely fight for a space by the railing if you want to capture the scenery.

And if you can’t make it to Brazil, it won’t be too long before you can swing by Primrose Hill in London instead, if plans to build a replica Christ the Redeemer statue go ahead.

Return minibus trips cost 25 from nearby the tram station (another option but book ahead or get there early) and drop you by the ticket office, where you queue again for another shuttle bus and eventual entry to the statue (26 real for shuttle and entry). Three hours should be enough time to get up, see the statue (and alter inside the base of the statue). On busy days, expect to queue for a lot longer.