Caminho do Itupava
Paraná's oldest trail, a 20km historic trek through the Atlantic Forest with ancient stone paving and hidden ruins.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and enjoy peace
Caminho do Itupava
Best Time
Beat the crowds and enjoy peace
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Paraná's oldest trail, a 20km historic trek through the Atlantic Forest with ancient stone paving and hidden ruins.
"A challenging yet rewarding journey through history and nature, with breathtaking scenery."
🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
Essential for navigating slippery rocks, especially after rain. Protect your head too!
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
There are no restrooms along the 20km trail. Stay hydrated and fueled.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Stone Paving
Throughout the trail
Walk on ancient stone paths, imagining the journeys of those who paved them centuries ago.
Atlantic Forest Immersion
Throughout the trail
Experience the lush, peaceful beauty of the Atlantic Forest, with chances to spot Black Capuchin monkeys.
Hidden Ruins and Waterfalls
Near train tracks
Discover intriguing ruins, a refreshing swimming hole, and cascading waterfalls just off the main path.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for a Historic Trek
Best Time to Avoid Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
Essential for navigating slippery rocks, especially after rain. Protect your head too!
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
There are no restrooms along the 20km trail. Stay hydrated and fueled.
🔦 Pack a Flashlight
Useful for exploring ruins and for safety, especially if you encounter any unexpected delays.
🌧️ Avoid Wet Conditions
Slippery rocks become extremely hazardous. Consider a helmet if conditions are wet.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
Essential for navigating slippery rocks, especially after rain. Protect your head too!
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
There are no restrooms along the 20km trail. Stay hydrated and fueled.
🔦 Pack a Flashlight
Useful for exploring ruins and for safety, especially if you encounter any unexpected delays.
🌧️ Avoid Wet Conditions
Slippery rocks become extremely hazardous. Consider a helmet if conditions are wet.
🐒 Spot Wildlife
Keep an eye out for Black Capuchin monkeys and other native fauna.
📝 Register at Both Ends
Mandatory registration is required at the start and end points of the trail.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Caminho do Itupava is a historically rich and challenging 20km trail through the Atlantic Forest. Visitors praise its unique ancient stone paving, the peaceful natural environment, and the discovery of hidden ruins and waterfalls. However, the trail's significant slipperiness, especially when wet, is a major concern, requiring careful preparation and sturdy footwear.
"Challenging historic trail for walking, about 20km. There is registration at the start and also at the end. I do not recommend walking the trail during wet conditions as the sloped slippery rocks become very hazardous. If conditions are wet you would almost want to consider wearing a rock climbing helmet to avoid cracking open your head on the stone paving on the trail.
There are some interesting ruins, with a swimming hole and waterfalls near to them just down the train tracks. There was a dam, and also a train monument to see. The forest is quite peaceful and there were quite a few b Black Capuchin monkeys that I encountered.
It was interesting to imagine all of the slaves paving the trail and the journey required to reach Curitiba so many years ago. You should have hiking boots, rain jacket, flashlight, water, and food for this one."
Simon G
"I came here with a local guide, Joao, whom I met through Airbnb. We walked through the Atlantic forests early in a Sunday morning when there were no crowds (around 7am). The path to the falls was a little slippery in between but nothing much to be afraid of. It started to get crowded as we were returning. There are no restrooms on the way. But the whole experience is worth visiting at least once if you are in Curitiba."
Vanya Bisht
"Incredible experience on this century old hiking trail!"
Eder Basso
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Caminho do Itupava is typically accessed from Quatro Barras (start) and ends in Morretes. Many visitors arrange transportation with local guides or tour groups that offer pick-up and drop-off services from Curitiba. 
Yes, it's a popular day trip. Many organized tours provide round-trip transportation from Curitiba, making it convenient.
Yes, some sections of the trail are near the train tracks, and you can find interesting spots like ruins and waterfalls by exploring along them.
While the trail is marked, many recommend going with a local guide for safety and to learn about its history.
The full trail is approximately 20-26 km and can take anywhere from 7 to 10 hours to complete, depending on your pace and stops.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While there isn't a traditional ticket purchase, registration is mandatory at both the start and end points of the trail.
There is no direct entrance fee, but you must complete a risk acknowledgment form. Organized tours may have fees that include transportation and guides.
The trail is generally open for visitation, but it's best to check with local authorities or your tour operator for any specific hours or access restrictions. Starting early is recommended.
If you are going with an organized group or guide, booking in advance is highly recommended. For independent trekkers, early arrival is key.
This is a risk acknowledgment form that visitors must sign, indicating they understand the potential hazards of the trail. It can often be found on the IAT (Instituto Ambiental do Paraná) website.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
It's considered a challenging trail, especially due to its length (20-26 km) and the slippery nature of the stone paving, particularly when wet.
You'll encounter historic stone paving, forest paths, and potentially muddy or slippery sections, especially after rain.
No, there are no restrooms available along the Caminho do Itupava. Be prepared to go without facilities for the duration of your trek.
The trail passes through the Atlantic Forest, offering opportunities to see Black Capuchin monkeys and other native species.
Due to its challenging nature and slippery terrain, it's generally recommended for older children and experienced hikers. Parents should carefully assess their child's capabilities.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the ancient stone paving, the lush Atlantic Forest scenery, hidden ruins, waterfalls, and any wildlife you encounter.
Early morning light can be beautiful for capturing the misty forest atmosphere. Midday sun can be harsh, but still offers good light for the ruins and waterfalls.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, and a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light conditions. Ensure your gear is protected from moisture.
Look for clearings in the forest that offer expansive views, and don't miss the picturesque spots near the ruins and waterfalls.
Focus on the textures of the stone paving, the scale of the forest, and any man-made elements like ruins to convey the trail's age and history.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The 20-26 km distance and the very slippery stone paving, especially when wet, pose significant risks. 🚶♀️ Solo Trekkers
🏃♀️ Trail Runners
Runners often tackle the route in sections or as a full traverse, aiming for personal best times. +1 However, the slippery conditions, particularly after rain, demand extreme caution and excellent trail running skills. +1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of the Caminho do Itupava
Walking this path offers a tangible connection to the past. You can almost feel the echoes of the countless journeys undertaken by indigenous peoples, early colonists, and traders. The trail's historical significance is palpable, making it a journey through both nature and time. It's a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of those who shaped Paraná's early history.
Navigating the Trail Safely
Beyond the slippery surfaces, the trail's length of approximately 20-26 km requires good physical condition and preparation. It's crucial to carry ample water and food, as there are no facilities along the route.
Discovering Hidden Gems
Adjacent to these ruins, you'll find a delightful swimming hole and picturesque waterfalls. These natural features offer a perfect spot to cool off and relax during your hike, providing a refreshing break amidst the challenging terrain.
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