The cable car ride is actually two separate trips, the first up to Urca and the second up to the top of Sugarloaf. Personally, I was glad to be off the cable car as it dosen't feel all that secure. This may have something to do with the fact that when we were there they were due to close the whole operation down in a days time for a major overhaul. Each gondola is quite large and offers viewing around the whole car. Although the queue can look long it does not take that long a wait to board.

The views are are sublime and stretch forever along both sides of the coast and inland. It is also a great place to orientate yourself with an idea of the layout of the city.

At the top there are also some nice walking trails with some very cheeky little monkeys who seem to have a penchant for iceblocks. There is also the normal shops selling the toursity things such as T-shirts, caps etc.

Just a reminder the cable cars were due to be closed April, May and June this year(2002) so of all went to plan they should just about be ready to be reopened again and with no fear of a cable snapping.

The trip cost 20 reals return, about $10US and worth it even if it does seem a tourist trap. You can't come to Rio and not take the trip, plus you won't be dissapointed.