Plan your visit
Plan your hike
Getting to the trail requires navigating the Vidigal favela. Prepare for steep paths, both in the community and on the mountain.
Two Brothers Hill
Vidigal, Rio de Janeiro - State of Rio de Janeiro
GPS -22.990747, -43.23983
Open directionsGetting there
How to reach the trailhead at Vila Olímpica.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Car: Take a taxi or ride-share (Uber) to Praça do Vidigal at the base of the favela. | 15-30 minutes from Copacabana or Ipanema | R$20-40 | Do not attempt to drive your own vehicle into the favela. |
| Bus: Local buses run along Avenida Niemeyer; get off at the Vidigal entrance. | 30-40 minutes from the South Zone | R$5 | Look for buses heading towards São Conrado from Leblon. |
| Walk: Take a mototaxi or kombi van from Praça do Vidigal to the Vila Olímpica soccer field to start the hike. | 10-15 minutes ride | R$10-15 | Walking up the favela is possible but steep, confusing, and adds 45-60 minutes to your trek before the hike even begins. |
| Tour: Book a guided hike that includes hotel pickup, transport through Vidigal, and a local guide. | 4-5 hours total | $40-$60 USD | Ideal for those uncomfortable navigating the favela independently or those looking to do a sunrise hike safely. |
When to go
- J
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- J
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QuietModerateBusyPeak
The trail is open year-round. May to September are the best months due to lower heat and humidity. Start early in the morning to beat the midday sun and potential afternoon clouds.
What to bring
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Bring at least 1.5 liters of water per person.
There are no facilities on the trail itself.
How the day runs
Sample hiking schedules.
A standard half-day trip to beat the heat.
- Arrive at Vidigal
Take a taxi or Uber to Praça do Vidigal.
- Mototaxi ride
Pay R$10-15 cash for a thrilling ride to Vila Olímpica.
- Start the hike
Pay the R$10 entry fee at the booth and begin your ascent.
- Summit views
Reach Irmão Maior for 360-degree photos.
- Descend
Hike back down to Vila Olímpica.
- Return transport
Take a van or mototaxi back down through the favela.
A guided early morning hike for dawn views.
- Meet your guide
Meet at the designated spot at the base of Vidigal.
- Travel up
Ride local transport to the trailhead in the dark.
- Night hike
Use lanterns to navigate the steep trail safely.
- Sunrise
Watch the sun rise over Guanabara Bay from the peak.
Navigating Vidigal safely
Do not attempt to drive your own vehicle into the favela. Take a taxi or Uber to Praça do Vidigal at the base. From there, hire a local mototaxi or kombi van to reach the trailhead. Trailhead Directions
While walking up through the community is possible, it is incredibly steep and confusing. Walking adds up to an hour to your journey before the hike even begins. Always respect local residents by keeping noise down and asking permission before taking photos of homes.
Easiest way to do it
Morro Dois Irmãos Hike & Vidigal Favela Tour with Transfer
5 h 4.9 (17)
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- Hike
From$69per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
How hard is the Morro Dois Irmaos hike?
The trail is rated as moderate. It is short (1.5 km each way) but very steep. The terrain is uneven and gets slippery, so sturdy hiking shoes with good grip are essential.
What should I pack?
Bring plenty of water (1.5 liters minimum), SPF 50+ sunscreen, and insect repellent. You must also bring cash in small Reais for the entrance fee and mototaxi rides.
Is it safe for tourists?
Yes, daytime hiking is generally safe. Vidigal is a pacified favela. However, you must stick to the main path and avoid wandering into unmarked side trails in the Atlantic Forest.