About Rio Mountain Sports
We are a local, guide-owned rock climbing company based in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Our team is made up of eight professionally qualified climbing guides and two administrators, all experienced climbers with deep knowledge of the local climbing areas in Rio and beyond.
We are passionate about climbing here and enjoy sharing that passion with our guests. Our goal is to create meaningful days on the rock and inspire you to continue exploring climbing beyond your time with us.
We are not an agency
We plan and operate our climbing outings, and when you book with us, your reservation stays with our team. We don’t pass bookings on to third parties or pool reservations with other companies. This allows us to keep communication clear and the quality of each experience consistent.
Come climb with us
We focus on your objectives
Our guests come from around the world with different goals, backgrounds, and expectations. Our extensive local knowledge and flexible approach allow us to tailor each climbing day to the people we’re guiding.
We understand that every climbing experience matters. Whether you’re stepping onto real rock for the first time, building confidence outdoors or refining established skills, we aim to provide a supportive and memorable day.
Safety is our top priority
Rock climbing is a rewarding adventure, but it is not without risk. We follow established best practices and take a thoughtful, systematic approach to managing those risks. Preparation, clear communication, and sound judgment are central to how we guide.
We plan for changing conditions and unexpected challenges. Whether the weather shifts mid-route or a climb proves more demanding than anticipated, our guides have the training and experience to assess the situation and make responsible decisions.
We love what we do
Climbing is at the center of our lifestyle, and sharing it with others is deeply rewarding. We find it especially meaningful to introduce new climbers to the sport, as well as to guide experienced climbers on the remarkable routes of Rio de Janeiro.
When we’re not out with our guests, you’ll find us climbing locally or traveling to other regions to continue learning, practicing, and improving our skills — both as climbers and as guides.
Meet our founder
Originally from Curitiba, Brazil, Ivanir Chamberlain started rock climbing in 1993, with Morro do Anhangava and Pico do Marumbi serving as the first learning grounds. Eager for further challenges, he spent the next several years travelling and climbing in Brazil, Argentina, Chile and Europe.
After several trips to Rio de Janeiro, Ivanir moved to the city in the year 2000. Beyond pursuing his own climbing objectives, he began guiding and teaching, eventually establishing Rio Mountain Sports.
Ivanir is now based in Urca, the city’s most traditional and extensive rock climbing destination. He continues to divide his time between Rio Mountain Sports and personal climbing projects, with special focus on long routes in committing, beautiful places.
Get in touch
Would you like more information about Rio Mountain Sports or our guided experiences? Reach out - we look forward to hearing from you!