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Parque Estadual da Serra do Mar Núcleo Caraguatatuba

4.8
·607 reviews·, Brazil

Explore lush Atlantic Forest trails, swim in clear rivers, and discover breathtaking waterfalls in this protected natural paradise.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
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Ponte pênsil sobre o Rio Santo Antônio.

Parque Estadual da Serra do Mar Núcleo Caraguatatuba

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore lush Atlantic Forest trails, swim in clear rivers, and discover breathtaking waterfalls in this protected natural paradise.

4.8
(607 reviews)

"Amazing park with guided walks, river crossings, and swimming opportunities for the whole family."

Vertical photo
TIP

Book Guided Tours 📅

Essential for longer trails. Guides enhance the experience and ensure safety. Book in advance!

Wear Proper Footwear 👟

Sturdy shoes are a must for river crossings and uneven terrain. Bring water shoes if you plan to swim.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Guided Nature Trails

Guided Nature Trails

Various trails within the park

Explore lush Atlantic Forest remnants with knowledgeable guides, crossing rivers and discovering hidden spots.

Refreshing River Swims

Refreshing River Swims

River crossings and designated swimming areas

Take a dip in crystal-clear waters amidst the vibrant green of the Atlantic Forest. Perfect for a cooling break.

Cascading Waterfalls

Cascading Waterfalls

Various waterfalls within the park

Discover stunning waterfalls, a true highlight for nature lovers seeking scenic beauty and tranquility.

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Planning Your Visit

Plan Your Serra do Mar Adventure

Book guided tours in advance, especially for longer trails. Wear sturdy shoes for river crossings and bring swimwear for refreshing dips. Check park hours and reservation requirements before you go.

Navigating the Serra do Mar

The park is vast, so consider a guided tour to explore its best trails and waterfalls safely. Be prepared for varying road conditions leading to the park, as some can be unpaved.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Ideal for swimming and cooling off
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

ficamos parados uns 20 minutos no meio da serra porque um carro tinha capotado… dps conseguiram levanta-lo e tiraram da pista, muita dó #ubatuba #serra #serradeubatuba #praia #carrocapotado #carro #viagem #sp #fy #fyyy
@pamellacristhini
808.7K likes • 5.8M views

Book Guided Tours 📅

Essential for longer trails. Guides enhance the experience and ensure safety. Book in advance! Reddit

Wear Proper Footwear 👟

Sturdy shoes are a must for river crossings and uneven terrain. Bring water shoes if you plan to swim. Reddit

E voce ja desceu essa serrinha 😬🥵? #ubatuba #litoralnortesp #lugaresdobrasil #destinosbrasileiro
@vidacaicara.uba
123.5K likes • 2.4M views
Trilhas, rios e cachoeiras no PESM - Núcleo Caraguatatuba O Parque Estadual Serra do Mar conta com exuberantes paisagens que formam os remanescentes da Mata Atlântica. Horário: das 08h após 17h Reservas: Sujeito a disponibilidade por meio do site do Parque. Ingressos: a partir de R$ 19,00 e Meia Entrada R$ 9,50 O acesso fica próximo a Rodovia dos Tamoios (SP-099), próximo ao Posto da Polícia...
exploresjc
322 likes • 10.2K views

Pack for Swimming 🏊‍♀️

Don't forget your swimsuit and towel for refreshing dips in the park's rivers and pools. Reddit

Stay Hydrated 💧

Bring plenty of water, especially for longer hikes. There are limited facilities for purchasing drinks inside. Instagram

Como é passar um dia visitando o Parque Estadual da Serra do Mar? Nesse vídeo, Heloisa Gamero, jornalista ambiental e colunista do Florestal Brasil, mostra as atividades disponíveis ao público no Parque Estadual da Serra do Mar. O Parque Estadual da Serra do Mar é uma das maiores áreas contínuas de Mata Atlântica preservada no Brasil, com cerca de 332.000 hectares. Ele se estende desde a divisa ...
florestal_brasil
384 likes • 8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Book Guided Tours 📅

Essential for longer trails. Guides enhance the experience and ensure safety. Book in advance! Reddit

Wear Proper Footwear 👟

Sturdy shoes are a must for river crossings and uneven terrain. Bring water shoes if you plan to swim. Reddit

Pack for Swimming 🏊‍♀️

Don't forget your swimsuit and towel for refreshing dips in the park's rivers and pools. Reddit

Stay Hydrated 💧

Bring plenty of water, especially for longer hikes. There are limited facilities for purchasing drinks inside. Instagram

Check Road Conditions 🚗

Some access roads can be unpaved or challenging. Be prepared for potential delays or rougher travel. TikTok+1

What Travellers Say

4.8
(607 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the park for its stunning natural beauty, offering fantastic hiking trails, refreshing river swims, and beautiful waterfalls. Guided tours are highly recommended for a comprehensive and safe experience, especially for families. Some visitors note that road conditions can be challenging, and English-speaking guides may be limited.

"It's a great place to hike, they have a lot of trails you could take with a tour guide. and a bath in the fresh water is so amazing."

Donalee Encarguez

"Amazing park. We chose a 3.5 hour guided walk for our family of 4 for R$64. Although the guide didn't speak English, we understood enough of what he was trying to say. There are several river crossings and am opportunity to swim."

Nick Benjamin

"Top"

Jean Carlos

What People Like

Beautiful hiking trails
Refreshing river swims
Stunning waterfalls

What People Dislike

Challenging road conditions
Limited English guides

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The park is accessible via the Rodovia dos Tamoios and then local roads. Some routes may be unpaved, so check conditions beforehand. Car access is common, but be mindful of potential road issues like those seen in TikTok videos.TikTok+1

Public transport options might be limited and require transfers. It's generally recommended to travel by car for easier access to the park's various nuclei.

Road conditions can vary. While main access roads are paved, some internal or connecting routes might be unpaved or rough, requiring careful driving. TikTok

Some steep or winding roads, like the Serra do Marçal, are known for their challenging nature and require experienced drivers. TikTok+1

The park is located in the Litoral Norte region of São Paulo state, making it a popular day trip or weekend destination from the capital.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entrance fees start around R$19.00, with a half-price option available. It's advisable to check the official park website for the most current pricing and any potential changes. Instagram

Reservations may be required, especially for guided tours or during peak seasons. Check the park's official website for booking procedures and availability. Instagram

The park is typically open from 8 AM to 5 PM. However, it's always best to confirm the exact hours on the official park website before your visit. Instagram

A half-price option is usually available. Information on specific discounts or free entry days would be on the park's official communication channels.

Some areas might be accessible independently, but guided tours are highly recommended for exploring trails and understanding the park's ecology. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can enjoy hiking on various trails, swim in rivers and natural pools, and admire waterfalls. Guided walks are a popular option for families. InstagramReddit

Yes, guided tours are offered and highly recommended for a comprehensive experience. They often involve river crossings and opportunities to swim. Reddit

Absolutely! Swimming in the clear waters of the rivers and near the waterfalls is a highlight for many visitors. Reddit

The park offers a variety of trails, from easy walks to more challenging hikes, often involving river crossings. Some trails lead to beautiful waterfalls. Instagram+1

Yes, families can enjoy guided walks, and there are opportunities for swimming. The park offers a great nature experience for all ages. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Food services inside the park are generally limited. It's advisable to bring your own snacks and water, or plan to eat before or after your visit. Instagram

Yes, there are designated areas for picnics, making it a great option to enjoy a meal surrounded by nature. TikTok

Nearby towns like Caraguatatuba and Ubatuba offer a range of dining options, from local eateries to more established restaurants. TikTok

Bringing your own food and drinks is highly recommended to ensure you have sustenance throughout your visit, especially if you plan on a longer hike. Instagram

The Litoral Norte region is known for its fresh seafood. Exploring local restaurants in Caraguatatuba or Ubatuba will offer authentic flavors.

📸 📸 Photography

Capture stunning shots of waterfalls, lush Atlantic Forest landscapes, and river crossings. The 'Casa da Farinha' offers a unique historical photo opportunity. Instagram

While wildlife sightings are possible, they are not guaranteed. Be patient and respectful if you encounter any animals. Focus on the natural beauty of the flora and fauna.

A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for capturing distant wildlife. A waterproof bag is advisable due to potential water spray from waterfalls. Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted in protected natural areas like state parks to preserve the environment and wildlife. Always check park regulations before flying.

Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Midday sun can be harsh. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Parque Estadual da Serra do Mar Núcleo Caraguatatuba is a fantastic destination for families. Guided walks are highly recommended, as they provide a safe and educational experience for children, often including fun river crossings and opportunities for swimming. Reddit The park's natural beauty and interactive elements like playgrounds (in some areas) make it an engaging outing. Remember to pack snacks and plenty of water, and ensure everyone wears comfortable, sturdy shoes. TikTok

🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers

For those who love to explore the great outdoors, this park offers a rich experience. You can embark on various hiking trails through the dense Atlantic Forest, discovering diverse plant and animal life. Guided tours are invaluable for understanding the ecosystem and accessing more remote areas. Don't miss the chance to swim in pristine rivers and admire the spectacular waterfalls. Instagram+1

🚗 Road Trip Adventurers

The journey to and around the Serra do Mar can be an adventure in itself. Be prepared for winding roads and potentially unpaved sections, especially when accessing different nuclei of the park. TikTok+1 While some roads are challenging, the scenic beauty of the Serra do Marçal and surrounding areas makes the drive worthwhile. Consider a vehicle suitable for varied terrain if you plan to explore beyond the main access points. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Atlantic Forest

The Parque Estadual da Serra do Mar Núcleo Caraguatatuba is a vital part of the Atlantic Forest, one of the most biodiverse and threatened biomes in the world. This protected area safeguards crucial ecosystems, including remnants of the original forest, vital water sources like the Paraibuna dam's watershed, and diverse flora and fauna. Visitors can experience this rich environment through guided walks that highlight the forest's ecological importance. Instagram+1

Walking through the park offers a chance to immerse yourself in the dense vegetation, listen to the sounds of nature, and learn about the conservation efforts in place. Guides often share insights into the medicinal plants, the role of the forest in regulating water cycles, and the challenges of preserving this natural heritage. It's an opportunity to connect with nature on a deeper level and appreciate the significance of these protected areas. Instagram

Adventures on the Trails

The park boasts a network of trails catering to various fitness levels, with guided tours being a popular choice for a comprehensive experience. These tours often involve exciting river crossings, where you'll wade through shallow, clear waters, and opportunities for refreshing swims in natural pools. The guides are knowledgeable about the terrain and ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. InstagramReddit

Some trails lead to stunning waterfalls, offering picturesque views and a chance to cool off. For instance, the Cachoeira do Pilão is a notable spot accessible within the park. Instagram The Trilha dos Poços in a nearby nucleus also features natural pools perfect for a dip. Instagram Remember to wear appropriate footwear, as the trails can be uneven and involve water. Reddit

Historical Echoes: Casa da Farinha

Within the Parque Estadual da Serra do Mar, near Ubatuba, lies the Casa da Farinha (Flour House). This historical structure is a testament to the region's past, featuring a large mill and an ingenho (sugar cane press) powered by the force of water. Instagram

Accessible via the Rio-Santos highway and a dirt road, the Casa da Farinha offers a glimpse into traditional agricultural practices. It's a unique spot for those interested in local history and heritage, providing a different perspective beyond the natural landscapes. The site is situated alongside a clear, shallow river, adding to its rustic charm. Instagram

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