Did you know that Campos do Jordão is called the “Brazilian Switzerland”? Two factors contributed to the most famous city in the Mantiqueira Mountains receiving this nickname. First, because its architecture is heavily influenced by European buildings, particularly those of Bavaria. Additionally, the fact that it is the highest municipality in the country means it has a cooler climate than the Brazilian average.
To give you an idea, the city’s temperatures range, on average, from 5°C to 18°C during the cold months. But it’s not uncommon for nights to be even colder, sometimes dropping to below-freezing temperatures. Better bring plenty of blankets!
The Dreams House entertainment complex is the perfect destination for those seeking family fun in the mountains! Spanning over 10,000 square meters, the space offers an immersive journey through four major attractions:
- Dreamland Wax Museum, featuring realistic replicas of artists, celebrities, and iconic pop culture characters;
- Valley of the Dinosaurs, where the giants of prehistory come to life with realistic movements and sounds;
- MiniLand, whose detailed 1:87 scale dioramas recreate cities, rural areas, railroads, and more;
- House of Horror, a scary and suspenseful tour that will test your courage with terrifying sets and costumed actors.
It’s an essential and surprising stop to spice up your itinerary with fun, sensory, and super Instagram-worthy experiences!
Every year, the Mantiqueira Mountains become a stage for major national and international classical music artists. After all, this is where the largest festival of its kind in Latin America takes place ! So if you’re in Campos do Jordão during the winter but still don’t know what to do there, it’s worth adding this outing to your itinerary.
Vila Capivari
The main tourist hub of Campos do Jordão, it showcases the architecture that made the small town famous. Furthermore, this is where visitors will find most of the restaurants and bars to enjoy the city’s nightlife.
Free for children up to 6 years old
The cable car that takes you to Morro do Elefante is one of the best-known things to do in Campos do Jordão. After all, from up there, you can enjoy an incredible view of the city. Additionally, a fun fact about the attraction is that it was Brazil’s first cable car and has been in operation since 1970.
Children up to 5 years old traveling on a guardian’s lap do not pay
Did you know that one of the few train rides that has stood the test of time is in Campos do Jordão? Aboard the Maria Fumaça Baronesa, you can enjoy the traditional ride between Vila Capivari and Vila Abernéssia. Tickets are available only on the day of the ride, at Emílio Ribas Station itself. Arrive early to secure a seat!
Boa Vista Palace
No prior appointment necessary
The former official residence of the governor of the State of São Paulo is now a museum housing nearly two thousand works of art. According to the institution’s official website, its 105 rooms house works ranging from Modernism to abstract art, with a highlight being a collection of eight rare and valuable paintings by Tarsila do Amaral. If you’re looking for things to do in Campos do Jordão, you can’t miss it!
Horto Florestal
Created in 1941, Campos do Jordão State Park, better known as Horto Florestal, preserves an important remnant of the Atlantic Forest. For those who can’t get enough of nature, this is a must-see attraction. In addition, visitors enjoy a destination rich in culture, history, and cuisine. In other words, the perfect option for those who enjoy quality ecotourism.
This one is located outside Campos do Jordão, in the neighboring town of São Bento do Sapucaí. However, its proximity and incredible scenery draw many visitors to make the trip there to reach the summit of Pedra do Baú and get their adrenaline fix.
