Why the Rio Panoramic Views are special
Rio de Janeiro in Brazil has one of the most beautiful settings imaginable. The city cuddles between curvaceous green mountains and the subtropical blue Guanabara Bay.
This wonderful setting is best appreciated from two spectacular vantages. One is from the top of Corcovado Mountain (where the photo was taken). The other is from the famous Sugar Loaf pinnacle (see peak on right).
Be sure to take in both views - each is stunning in its unique way.

The Corcovado viewpoint
Corcovado Mountain is 710 meters (2300 feet) high and is popularly reached by cog rail. Its viewing platform is at the base of the famous Christ the Redeemer statue. The sight of Rio de Janeiro at your feet is sweeping and breathtaking.

The Sugar Loaf viewpoint
Sugar Loaf Peak is 400 meters (1300 feet) high and is reached by cable car (which, as a bonus, provides its own inimitable views). Being much shorter than Corcovado, Sugar Loaf gives you a closer-up and more personal view of Rio de Janeiro and its bay.

What leading travel books say about Rio de Janeiro
Rio de Janeiro has been taking visitors' breaths away since it was discovered by the Portuguese in 1502.
Rio de Janeiro
Insight Guides

No city offers better perches than Rio de Janeiro from where to view its splendors.
Rio de Janeiro
Berlitz Pocket Guides