The Sugar Loaf cables cars in Rio de Janeiro are very safe.
The Swiss-made bubbled-shaped Sugar Loaf cable cars (bondinho) in Rio de Janeiro are considered one of the safest in the world by the international authorities on passenger cable cars. Every morning, the Sugar Loaf cable cars are tested before the first tourists board them, and a total of 47 safety procedures are implemented. The rides are programmed and controlled by electronic equipment.
Since its beginning in 1912, there has never been an accident with victims. The Sugar Loaf Cable Car maintenance team follows rigorous procedures and renovations are routinely performed. The cables were replaced in 2002, and the cars in 2009.
There is no reason to be afraid of taking the cable cars/gondolas to visit Sugar Loaf, but if you are still squeamish about heights, focus on the view of Rio de Janeiro during the ride!
By the way, talking about safety: you should NOT be concerned about safety in Rio de Janeiro. In fact, the city is much safer now than in the 1990s. You won’t feel unsafe when visiting landmarks such as Sugar Loaf, Corcovado Mountain, etc.
To learn more about the Sugar Loaf cable cars safety and on how to visit Sugar Loaf in Rio (as well as other important travel information), get a copy of Sugar Loaf: the definitive guidebook to visiting the Rio de Janeiro’s most famous hill.