Emerging from the sands at one end of Itacoatiara beach in Niterói, there's a massive 250 metre high granite rock called Morro do Costão. Its part of several inselbergs which together form a dramatic backdrop to the beach. Costão is the lower broader one on the right of this photo:
Most parts of Costão are far too steep to climb:
But, around the back, there is a trail which begins by some houses and climbs up through rain-forest. This is within the Tiririca state park, which protects large areas of forested hills along this part of the coast.
From a pass in the forest, its possible to start clambering up the steep bare rock slope of Costão. Its not technical, but its not for everyone. On the other side, rises Mourão which is far steeper, higher and more dangerous to climb.
On the bare rocks, cacti and other succulents cling on.
Approaching the top, its possible to see the trunk of the Elephant Rock plunging vertically into the sea. To make out the Elephant head, you have to go to Itaipuaçu beach, just up the coast.
And then, at the flat summit, there's a greater cover of plants and a small forest. An ecological island.
Amongst the various things you can see are orchids:
Creepers:
Quaresma, which is a small tree found on the coast:
And of course, a view out over the beaches of Niterói and Guanabara bay to the unmistakeable Sugar Loaf in the distance.
Peering over the edge, Itacoatiara beach is 250 metres down below.
Take off:
And soar in the thermals:
On the way back down, I'm overtaken by something far quicker than me:
