With only 24% of its original coverage remaining, the Atlantic Forest is one of the most threatened ecosystems today. Years ago, the biome covered more than 1 million square kilometers along the Brazilian coast, including virtually all of São Paulo’sbeaches . Despite this, the state capital still offers hiking trails in the Atlantic Forest that allow us to experience the forest.
In addition to connecting with nature safely and with proper infrastructure , we can appreciate the enormous diversity of flora and fauna , including endangered species. That’s why we’ve selected some must-visit destinations to explore and immerse yourself in the tropical greenery of the Atlantic Forest.
Trails in the Atlantic Forest in São Paulo:
Cantareira State Park
Covering approximately 7,916 hectares, the park is one of the largest urban forests in the world. Designated a state park in 1962, it is one of the main biodiversity refuges in the metropolitan region. It is even recognized as a natural heritage site by UNESCO. It is divided into three sections:
- Pedra Grande: Considered difficult, the Pedra Grande Trail is about 9.5 kilometers long and culminates at a granite lookout point at an altitude of 1,010 meters. The Figueira Trail, which is of medium difficulty, spans 1.2 kilometers through dense forest and rocky terrain. On the other hand, the Bugio Trail is easy, at 330 meters;
- Águas Claras: In this area, the main trail is the Suçuarana Trail, the longest and most demanding, connected to the Pedra Grande trails;
- Engordador: The main trails in this area are the Cachoeira and Macuco trails. Both take visitors to see the region’s waterfalls and pools.
Jaraguá State Park
It is the park at the highest point in the city of São Paulo, Pico do Jaraguá, at an altitude of 1,135 meters . It is also one of the sites listed by UNESCO as part of the São Paulo Green Belt Biosphere Reserve.
It became a park in 1961 and currently functions as a conservation and environmental education area.
Top Trails
- Pai Zé Trail: It is the only trail that reaches the summit of Jaraguá. The trail is about 3.6 kilometers long and ranges from moderate to difficult;
- Trail of Silence: A shorttrail , about 800 meters long, easy and adapted for people with limited mobility. It has handrails, guides, and signs in Braille;
- Bica Trail: It is about 1.6 kilometerslong . Moderately difficult, it leads to a waterfall and passes through dense forest.
Fontes do Ipiranga State Park
It is known as the great “green lung” of São Paulo’s South Zone. The park also encompasses the Botanical Garden, the Zoo, the Zoo Safari, and the Science and Technology Park. It preserves the region’s forest, water, and wildlife, while also maintaining spaces for scientific research and promoting environmental education.
- Nascente Trail: This is the park’s main trail. Located within the Botanical Garden, it features a short, approximately 500-meter path along a boardwalk. The trail is accessible to seniors and people with limited mobility.
Trianon Park
Also known as Tenente Siqueira Campos Park, it is a patch of Atlantic Forest in the heart of Paulista Avenue. Covering 48,600 square meters, the area features century-old trees and is home to more than 130 plant species.
- Fauno Trail: One of the park’s shorter hiking trails, it features a playground and community fitness equipment.
