Pedra Grande

Opened in 1962, Cantareira State Park was declared part of the São Paulo Green Belt Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 1994. Today, the 20,000-acre (8,100-hectare) park is a popular recreational destination, and few of its highlights measure up to Pedra Grande—quite literally. The rocky outcrop can be reached by several hiking trails, including the Pedra Grande Trail and the Suçuarana Trail. Once visitors ascend, they’re rewarded with extraordinary panoramas of the city, and can visit the adjacent Pedra Grande Museum (Museu da Pedra Grande).

If you’re visiting independently, you can follow the Pedra Grande Trail straight from the park’s entrance. To simplify the trip, there are also a range of guided tours departing from São Paulo.

• Pets are not permitted in the park.

• Much of the trail up to Pedra Grande is steep, and visitors are advised to be in good physical fitness to make the trek.

• You can purchase tickets to the park online; children, seniors, students, teachers, and other groups receive discounted entry.

• Special Sunday van trips to Pedra Grande, departing every 30 minutes, are hosted for those who are less able to visit on foot.

Pedra Grande is one of several sections, or “nuclei,” of the park. Its main entrance is located at Rua do Horto, 931 - Horto Florestal, and the entrance to Pedra Grande is at Gate 5. Several bus lines link downtown São Paulo and the park, including the 1775-10 and the 1018-10. From São Paulo, you can also make the 8-mile (12-kilometer) drive via the Corredor Norte-Sul; while parking is not offered inside the park, it’s possible to park on the Rua do Horto.

Cantareira State Park is open daily, and visitors can use the main entrance from morning until late afternoon. Because the weather in the region is often very hot and muggy, and sudden downpours can occur, it’s best to time your visit to a good-weather day. The high season—from June to September—is also São Paulo’s winter, and brings the coolest temperatures.

Before or after visiting Pedra Grande, be sure to set aside time to visit Horto Florestal. The park (whose name translates to “Forest Garden,” and which is also formally known as Alberto Löfgren Park), is home to a botanical garden, as well as a museum, memorial, and gazebo, among other sights, and is adjacent to the entrance of Cantareira State Park.