São Paulo has cities specializing in all sorts of things, for all tastes: strawberry capital, shoe capital, adventure capital… But the most unusual of all is to be the capital of the werewolf. No, you didn’t read that wrong! The small town of Joanópolis, just over 100 kilometers from São Paulo, is known for being the “home” of the famous (and feared) wolf man.
Despite going unnoticed by many, the destination is a great option for those looking for a getaway to the countryside. After all (in addition to the chances of meeting this legendary creature), Joanópolis is a destination that brings together various options for ecotourism with waterfalls, trails and extreme sports. Shall we get to know it?
What to do in Joanópolis (SP)?
The town’s big difference in terms of nature is the Cachoeira dos Pretos. At 154 meters high, it is the second highest in the state of São Paulo and offers a breathtaking view. It also offers sports such as rafting, kayaking and float-cross for adrenaline lovers. Access is via an easily accessible trail and there is a restaurant on site that is visited by the famous werewolf.
But if you want even more options, Serra do Lopo is the perfect place for trekking, abseiling, mountain biking and hang-gliding. This mountain range is also home to the Sleeping Giant, a hill over 1700 meters high that resembles the silhouette of a man lying down.
Finally, Joanópolis is almost on the border with Minas Gerais. This proximity means that tourists can try traditional Minas Gerais cuisine there, with cheeses, cachaças and homemade food!
After all, why is Joanópolis the capital of the Werewolf?
The story that Joanópolis is home to one of folklore’s best-known creatures goes back a long way, to when the town was founded. Legend has it that one of the town’s first residents, Anselmo Caparica, was a werewolf.
In an interview with G1, Valter Cassalho, president of the Association of Werewolf Creators, said that Caparica was “tall, wore a cape and had a habit of walking at night”, which reinforced the idea in the popular imagination.
Many of the town’s residents claim to have seen the creature around, chasing people and stealing chickens. Whether they really “live” there, we don’t know. But in any case, the werewolves have become a symbol of Joanópolis and one of the biggest local attractions. Who knows, maybe you’ll come across one during your visit?
