Where can I rent trekking poles in Rio de Janeiro for a weekend hike?
Rio de Janeiro is a hiker’s paradise, with iconic trails like Pedra da Gávea, Morro Dois Irmãos, and the Tijuca Forest. But not everyone wants to buy trekking poles for occasional use. Fortunately, renting is a practical and affordable option. Here’s where to find trekking pole rentals in Rio for a weekend adventure.
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1. Adventure Sports (Flamengo) – Most reliable
Adventure Sports is Rio’s premier mountaineering shop, located at Rua Senador Vergueiro, 32 – Flamengo. They rent quality poles (Black Diamond and LEKI) for R$25–30 per day, or R$60–80 for the weekend.
- What you get: Aluminum flick‑lock poles, cork grips, carbide tips. Mud baskets included.
- Reservation: Call ahead (21) 2285-2154 or visit their website. Weekend rentals require advance booking, especially during high season (June–August).
- Deposit: R$200 refundable (credit card or cash).
- Hours: Mon–Fri 10am–8pm, Sat 10am–4pm. Closed Sunday – pick up on Saturday for a weekend hike.
2. Rio Hiking (online rental service)
Rio Hiking is a specialized outdoor rental platform that delivers poles to your accommodation in Rio’s South Zone (Copacabana, Ipanema, Leblon) or Barra da Tijuca.
- How it works: Order online at riohiking.com.br. Choose “bastões de trekking”. Delivery fee R$15, rental R$20/day.
- Lead time: Order at least 48 hours in advance.
- Poles available: Decathlon Forclaz Trek 500 (flick locks, excellent condition).
- Return: Drop off at a partner location (e.g., Hostel Santa Teresa) or arrange pickup (extra R$15).
3. Hostels and pousadas (budget option, limited availability)
Many hostels in Santa Teresa, Botafogo, and Copacabana lend or rent basic trekking poles to guests. Examples:
- Santa Teresa Hostel – Free for guests (donation suggested). Poles are basic twist‑lock models – fine for gentle trails like Parque Lage.
- Mama Ruisa (Botafogo) – Rent for R$10/day, but only two pairs available. Ask at reception.
- Discovery Hostel (Copacabana) – Borrow with R$50 deposit.
Call ahead – availability is not guaranteed.
4. Decathlon (rental via their community board)
Decathlon stores in Rio (Barra Shopping, Bangu, Carioca Shopping) do not officially rent poles. However, their in‑store community boards often have flyers from individuals renting gear. Check the “Anúncios” board near the checkout. Prices R$15–25/day. Ask a staff member for help.
5. Local hiking guides and groups
If you book a guided hike (e.g., with “Trilhas do Rio” or “Aventura Natural”), guides often provide poles for free as part of the package. This is the most hassle‑free option. Search for “guia de montanha Rio de Janeiro” on Instagram. A half‑day guided hike (R$150–250) includes poles, transport, and insurance.
What to check before renting
- Locks: Make sure they are flick locks (external levers). Twist locks are unsafe for steep descents.
- Tips: Carbide tip should be present. Rubber covers? Ask.
- Adjustability: Extend and collapse each section. Should move smoothly.
- Condition: No bent shafts or excessive rust.
Weekend hike rental plan (example)
- Friday afternoon: Pick up poles from Adventure Sports (opens until 8pm).
- Saturday: Hike Pedra da Gávea (3,000 steps – poles essential).
- Sunday: Hike Morro Dois Irmãos via Vidigal.
- Sunday evening: Return poles (Adventure Sports open until 4pm). Total rental: 3 days = R$75–90.
Final verdict
For a weekend hike in Rio, Adventure Sports offers the most reliable and high‑quality rental poles (R$25–30/day). For delivery convenience, use **Rio Hiking**. Hostels are a gamble. Always inspect locks and tips before paying. Renting for R$60–90 is far cheaper than buying a cheap twist‑lock pole that fails on the mountain. Enjoy the trails – and keep your knees happy.
