You may have noticed that Greater São Paulo is home to many secrets that go unnoticed in our daily lives. A good example is the Caminho do Sal, a historic 17th-century route that runs along the Serra do Mar mountain range. The approximately 50-kilometer route connects São Bernardo do Campo, Santo André, and Mogi das Cruzes, offering a nature retreat very close to São Paulo.
The dirt road route is ideal formountain bikers , horseback riding enthusiasts, and long hikersalike . In addition, its trails preserve more than 380 years of history, allowing us to rediscover the colonial past of the metropolitan region.
From a passage for mule drivers to a forbidden path
The origins of the crossing date back to 1640, when it was known as “Caminho de Zanzalá” (Zanzalá Trail). The trail took advantage of ancient indigenous passages to facilitate the transport of supplies by the Portuguese— ly salt, which gave rise to its current name.
The passage became essential for the region and even catalyzed the occupation of the interior of São Paulo, with several settlements springing up along the route. Over time, however, its relevance ended up attracting illicit activities!
In the 18th century, the Caminho do Sal became a route for the clandestine transport of precious stones from mining areas. As a result, the Portuguese Crown intervened and officially blocked the route in an attempt to curb smuggling. Thus, the trail remained closed and forgotten for a long period.
How about exploring the secrets of the Caminho do Sal?
Currently, the site is being reborn as an important ecotourism and leisure spot in Greater São Paulo. Since 2014, a partnership between local governments has ensured the route is signposted and access points are organized, transforming the old forbidden road into a safe destination.
The itinerary takes in the impressive landscapes of the Serra do Mar, crossing rivers, streams, and natural pools that contrast with the hustle and bustle of the capital. There are even sections with privileged views of the Billings Dam.
For this reason, Caminho do Sal has established itself as one of the main trail spots in São Paulo, attracting mountain runners and cyclists. The route borders the Serra do Mar State Park and other conservation units, preserving stretches of Atlantic Forest and wildlife just a few kilometers from the country’s largest metropolis. Check out the complete map of Caminho do Sal at this link!