Hotels near Cristo Redentor Statue, Rio de Janeiro

The best time to go is early as it gets very crowded even from as early as 08h00. Take the shuttle up, it takes you all the way up rather than the tram or bus - with those you still have to walk a bit, and it's quite steep.

It's an epic landmark to visit, so of course you must go when visiting Rio for the first time. BUT...the crowds, OMG! I first visited the site in 2009 and it was pretty crowded but enjoyable. Now, going there 10 years later it was completely different experience. There is a whole system to get up to the point by shuttle bus (pay) get a ticket (pay) wade through the long line as if you're at Six Flags newest ride, then take another shuttle van from the ticket building to the actual point. Inch your way through the crowd (pay with your sanity), but good luck trying to take a photo or even walk in to look up because everyone else is blocking the way while they take their photos. If you're claustrophobic you will not survive. The view is amazing, the experience is exhausting. Best advice is to go as early as possible, right when they open or try to visit off peak season or days. Since the Olympics and World Cup it seems many more people are visiting Rio. Plan accordingly.

Awe inspiring statue, and so cool to see the black vultures riding thermal waves around you. Go as early as possible to beat the crowds, or go during the quiet season. I did both, and there were only maybe 50 people up there with me.

Great place a wonderful to see one of the wonders of the world but so many people that you could barely move. Just take one photo of yourself and move on. Seriously how many pics does one need of themselves in front of something?

The elevators and escalators did not work so I had to climb 229 steps to reach the monument - I took short breaks to catch my breath especially with my ortho arthritic knee. The monument is worth the climb. Go visit the hidden chapel around the monument and say a quiet paper. Very calming effect. The view is spectacular - glad I made the climb now I want to climb higher. Made