RegionRio de Janeiro
On my final morning in Brazil, a walk through central Rio moved between civic monuments, murals, Lapa, empty office streets and visible homelessness, ending with one last view of Pão de Açúcar across the bay.
Range Serra dos Órgãos
Pedra do Sino became my 400th Ribu, although the morning began with a wrong approach road rather than a celebration. Beyond the crowded Atlantic Forest trail, granite opened onto distant Rio and Guanabara Bay.
Range Southern Brazilian Highlands
When the cars could go no farther, Pedra do Desengano became an 18.9 km day with 1,243 m of ascent, a steep final slab and a descent that ended with 2 km of road walking by headlamp.
Range Southern Brazilian Highlands
We wanted a short hike before a long drive, and Pico da Caledônia looked ideal until a locked gate stopped us. Two rangers appeared, opened it, and 632 damp steps later we were crossing a metal bridge between two summit bumps in the cloud.
Range Southern Brazilian Highlands
While waiting for Rob to land, Dave and I chose the Corcovado train over faster-looking minibuses. The queue probably cost us time, but the railway, the crowded summit and Rio opening in every direction made the choice worthwhile.