Serra do Rio do Rastro Lookout
Experience the legendary SC-390, a breathtaking mountain road with 284 hairpin turns offering unparalleled views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clearer skies, fewer crowds
Serra do Rio do Rastro Lookout
Best Time
Clearer skies, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the legendary SC-390, a breathtaking mountain road with 284 hairpin turns offering unparalleled views.
"A true test for drivers and a visual spectacle, this road is unforgettable!"
🚗 Horn is Your Friend
Use your horn on blind curves to alert oncoming traffic. Safety first on this winding road!
⛽ Fill Up Before You Go
Gas stations are rare. Ensure your tank is full before ascending to avoid getting stranded.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Serpent's Path
SC-390 Highway
Navigate the legendary 284 curves of this breathtaking mountain road, a true test for drivers and a visual spectacle.
Panoramic Summit Viewpoint
Top of the Serra
Reach the summit for unparalleled vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys. A perfect spot for photos and reflection.
Charming Roadside Stops
Various points along SC-390
Discover small cafes and convenience stores offering refreshments, souvenirs, and essential facilities.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Master the Curves
Fuel Up and Stay Connected
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Horn is Your Friend
Use your horn on blind curves to alert oncoming traffic. Safety first on this winding road!
⛽ Fill Up Before You Go
Gas stations are rare. Ensure your tank is full before ascending to avoid getting stranded.
📱 Download Offline Maps
Cell service is spotty. Have offline maps ready for navigation.
🏍️ Bikers' Paradise
A dream destination for motorcyclists, offering thrilling rides and stunning scenery.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Horn is Your Friend
Use your horn on blind curves to alert oncoming traffic. Safety first on this winding road!
⛽ Fill Up Before You Go
Gas stations are rare. Ensure your tank is full before ascending to avoid getting stranded.
📱 Download Offline Maps
Cell service is spotty. Have offline maps ready for navigation.
🏍️ Bikers' Paradise
A dream destination for motorcyclists, offering thrilling rides and stunning scenery.
📸 Capture the Views
Pull over safely at designated spots to photograph the dramatic landscapes and unique road.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Serra do Rio do Rastro's breathtaking scenery and the thrilling drive along its iconic winding road. Many describe it as a unique and unforgettable experience, a true highlight of Santa Catarina. However, some caution that the challenging curves require extreme care, and the lack of services necessitates thorough preparation regarding fuel and supplies.
"VAI SUBINDO E TIRANDO O FÔLEGO
Que Europa
Que América
Gente só vai aqui pra perder fôlego já na subida
Incrível, mas sempre deixe espaço para caminhões nas curvas que precisam de toda a volta principalmente quando sobem e não tem posto de combustível na subida além do sinal de telefone poder te abandonar então te liga seja esperto e maduro
Todo acesso por asfalto e muitas curvas então cuidado redobrado em todo o trajeto
Não há muitos locais pra parar e todas as paradas existentes são válidas com vista, banheiro e café ou conveniência
Algumas se especializaram mais e possuem lembrancinhas da Serra"
Josane Fritzen
"Excelente experiência. Vale cada litro de combustível 🤣
É um desafio para o carro também: vi alguns parados e outros guinchos pelo caminho.
Fique sempre atento aos caminhos subindo ou descendo. Eles buzinam pois nas curvas fechadas não é possível passar um carro junto"
Joao Ricardo Ferreira Faria
"Uma experiência única, nunca imaginei q iria conseguir subir a serra do rio do rastro de bike, pra mim foi uma superação, foi maravilhoso."
Marlene Rodrigues
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Serra do Rio do Rastro is accessed via the SC-390 highway, connecting Lauro Müller and Bom Jardim da Serra in Santa Catarina, Brazil. It's a scenic drive, but be prepared for numerous curves.
The road is paved but extremely winding with many sharp turns. While generally safe, it requires careful driving. Trucks and larger vehicles need extra caution.
Many visitors drive or ride motorcycles. Cyclists also find it a challenging but rewarding experience.
Public transport directly to the lookout is limited. Most visitors opt for private vehicles or organized tours. Renting a car is a popular choice for flexibility.
The primary towns connected by the SC-390 are Lauro Müller and Bom Jardim da Serra. Both offer accommodation and services.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entrance fee to access the Serra do Rio do Rastro highway or its viewpoints. The experience is free, but be mindful of fuel costs.
The road is generally open 24/7, but it's advisable to drive during daylight hours for safety due to the challenging curves.
No advance booking is required as there are no entrance fees. You can visit anytime, but checking weather conditions beforehand is recommended.
While generally open, extreme weather conditions like heavy fog or rain can sometimes lead to temporary road closures for safety. Always check local conditions.
You can stop at designated viewpoints and pull-offs. Please do not stop in the middle of curves or obstruct traffic.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit viewpoint offers stunning panoramic shots. Many of the curves themselves provide dramatic photographic opportunities, especially from higher vantage points.
Early mornings often provide clearer skies and softer light, while late afternoons offer beautiful golden hour hues. Fog can add a mystical element, but can also obscure views.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check local aviation rules before flying. Some videos show drone footage, suggesting it's possible in certain areas.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for details. A sturdy tripod is helpful for low-light conditions or capturing the winding road.
The iconic switchbacks are a must-capture. Look for viewpoints that showcase the sheer number of turns and the dramatic elevation change.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are a few roadside stops that offer food, including cafes and convenience stores. They are great for a quick bite or a coffee break.
Expect simple, hearty fare like snacks, sandwiches, coffee, and local treats. Some places might offer regional dishes.
Some of the larger stops might have seating areas with views, but they are primarily for refreshments rather than formal dining experiences.
It's highly recommended to pack your own snacks and water, especially if you plan to stop frequently or travel during off-peak hours.
Options might be limited at the small roadside stops. It's best to inquire directly or pack your own food if you have specific dietary needs.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during daylight hours and avoiding peak times to ensure a more relaxed experience for everyone. 🏍️ Motorcyclists & Road Trip Enthusiasts
+1 The sense of freedom and the incredible views make it a highly rewarding experience. Remember to prioritize safety, especially on blind corners, and ensure your bike is in top condition. 📸 Photographers & Content Creators
The 284 curves provide endless opportunities for capturing stunning shots, especially from aerial perspectives or elevated viewpoints. The interplay of light and shadow on the mountains, particularly during sunrise and sunset, creates magical moments. Be prepared for varying weather conditions, as fog can add a dramatic, moody element to your photos. Always prioritize safety when stopping to take pictures; use designated pull-offs and be aware of traffic. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Thrill of the Drive: Navigating SC-390
Many of these curves are incredibly tight, often requiring drivers to use their horns to signal their presence on blind corners. Motorcyclists particularly love this route for the adrenaline rush and the stunning scenery.
+1 However, it's essential for all travelers to remember that services are scarce. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition and has a full tank of fuel before embarking on the ascent. For those who prefer a less intense experience, consider visiting during off-peak hours or taking a guided tour. Some visitors have even completed the climb by bicycle, highlighting the road's challenging yet achievable nature for dedicated adventurers.
Beyond the Curves: What to Expect at the Summit
The lookout point is a popular spot for visitors to pause, take photos, and soak in the majestic landscape of the Santa Catarina highlands. While the drive itself is the main attraction, the summit provides a serene environment to appreciate the natural beauty of the region.Along the route and at the top, you'll find a few small establishments offering refreshments and souvenirs.
The altitude at the summit is over 1400 meters, so it can be cooler than the surrounding areas, even on a warm day.
Be prepared for changing weather conditions, as fog can roll in quickly, dramatically altering the visibility and atmosphere. This can create a mystical, ethereal experience, but also necessitates extra caution if you are driving. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit