Northwest Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, eat, and stay in Northwest, São Paulo with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Northwest

Located in Grande São Paulo, Northwest is a charming region that offers a mix of cultural, natural, and historical attractions. It’s an ideal destination for those who want to experience the beauty of Brazil beyond the usual tourist hotspots. The region is easily accessible by public transport, and it’s just a few hours away from São Paulo City. This guide will provide you with all the information you need to plan your trip to Northwest, São Paulo.

List of Places to Visit in Northwest

Northwest offers various places to visit, suited for all types of travelers. Here are some of the top destinations that you shouldn’t miss:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Casa do Tatuapé: A museum that provides a glimpse of the life and culture of São Paulo’s earlier settlers.
  • Museum of the Immigration: This museum showcases the history and stories of immigrants who helped build São Paulo.
  • Museum of Sacred Art: It houses a large collection of colonial sacred art, including sculptures, paintings, and objects from the 16th to the 20th century.

Natural Attractions of Northwest: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Pico do Jaraguá: Located in the Jaraguá State Park, this is the highest point in São Paulo City. It offers excellent hiking trails and panoramic views of the city.
  • Serra da Cantareira: A mountain range with hiking trails and some of the best scenic views in São Paulo. It’s also home to the Horto Florestal Park, where you can take a guided tour of the forest and its ecosystem.
  • Parque Cidade de Toronto: A park that features trails, a small lake, and a playground for children. It’s an ideal place for a family picnic.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Northwest

  • Trilha dos Macacos: A 4 kilometer scenic hiking trail located in the Jaragua State Park. It offers a glimpse of the region’s flora and fauna.
  • Bike Rio Pequeno: A 6 kilometer bike trail that follows the Rio Pequeno stream. It’s a perfect route for nature lovers who want to explore the region on two wheels.

Best Things to Do in Northwest: Activities and Tours

  • Feira de Antiguidades do Bixiga: An antique market held every Sunday in the Bixiga neighborhood. You can find everything from vintage furniture to antique books and records.
  • Tour of the Street Art in Vila Madalena: A guided tour that showcases the vibrant graffiti and street art scene in the Vila Madalena neighborhood.
  • São Paulo Zoo: One of the largest zoos in Brazil, it houses more than 3,000 animals from 350 different species.

Week-Long Itinerary for Northwest

Day 1 - Visit the Casa do Tatuapé museum and explore the Tatuapé neighborhood. Day 2 - Hike the Trilha dos Macacos in the Jaraguá State Park, and enjoy panoramic views of the city. Day 3 - Visit the Museum of the Immigration and learn about São Paulo’s history of migration. Day 4 - Take a guided tour of the Horto Florestal Park and explore the Serra da Cantareira mountain range. Day 5 - Go on a street art tour of Vila Madalena and explore the neighborhood’s vibrant art scene. Day 6 - Visit the São Paulo Zoo and get up close with some of Brazil’s unique wildlife. Day 7 - Spend a relaxing day at the Parque Cidade de Toronto and enjoy a family picnic.

Food and Drink Scene of Northwest

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pao de Queijo: A savory Brazilian cheese bread that’s made with tapioca flour and cheese.
  • Coxinha: A deep-fried chicken croquette that’s a popular snack in Brazil.
  • Pastel de Feira: A deep-fried pastry that’s filled with various ingredients like meat, cheese, and vegetables.

Local Beverages

  • Cachaça: A distilled spirit made from sugarcane juice.
  • Caipirinha: A popular Brazilian cocktail made with cachaça, lime, and sugar.

Where to Stay in Northwest: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Mercure Sao Paulo Funchal Hotel: A four-star hotel located in the Vila Olimpia neighborhood that features a rooftop pool and bar.
  • Pousada dos Franceses: A cozy guesthouse located in the Jardim Paulista neighborhood that features a terrace and garden.
  • The Universe Paulista by Intercity: A budget-friendly hotel located in the Bela Vista neighborhood that features a fitness center and sauna.

What to Buy in Northwest: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Brazilian jewelry: Brazil is known for its unique gemstones like tourmaline, aquamarine, and topaz.
  • Carnival masks: Brazil’s carnival is world-famous, and you can bring back a piece of the celebration in the form of a carnival mask.
  • Brazilian coffee: Brazil is one of the world’s largest coffee producers, and you can find some of the best coffee beans in the world here.

Local Culture and Customs of Northwest

  • Language: Portuguese is the official language of Brazil, but English is widely spoken in major tourist destinations.
  • Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory in Brazil, but it’s customary to tip hotel staff, restaurant servers, and taxi drivers if you’re happy with their service.
  • Greet with a kiss: It’s customary to greet someone with a kiss on the cheek in Brazil, even if it’s your first meeting.

Best Time to Visit Northwest

The best time to visit Northwest is from March to May and from October to November when the weather is pleasant, and there are fewer tourists. However, if you’re interested in experiencing Brazil’s carnival, February is the best month to visit.

Do’s and Don’ts of Northwest

Do:

  • Learn some Portuguese before you go.
  • Take a guided tour of the Serra da Cantareira mountain range.
  • Enjoy the local cuisine and drinks.

Don’t:

  • Wear flashy jewelry or carry expensive cameras in public places.
  • Show up late for appointments as punctuality is valued in Brazil.
  • Forget to carry cash as some small businesses don’t accept credit cards.

Safety and Health

Safety in Northwest

Northwest is considered a safe destination for tourists. However, it’s always advisable to keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places. Avoid carrying valuables in public places and stick to well-lit areas at night.

Health in Northwest

Brazil has a good public healthcare system, but it’s always advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Remember to drink bottled water and avoid tap water, which may cause stomach upset.

Getting to Northwest: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Northwest

The São Paulo-Guarulhos International Airport is the nearest airport to Northwest, located around 30 kilometers away. The Congonhas-São Paulo Airport is also a viable option and is around 15 kilometers away.

Bus Stations Near Northwest

The Tietê Bus Terminal is the main bus station in São Paulo, and it’s located around 17 kilometers away from Northwest. There are regular bus services that connect the bus terminal to different points in Northwest.

Other Options

Taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber are readily available in São Paulo, and they’re a convenient and safe option to get around. Public transport in São Paulo includes buses and metro, which are extensive and reliable.

How to Get Around in Northwest

Walking and cycling are the best ways to get around in Northwest, especially if you’re exploring the region’s natural attractions. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available for those who prefer a more comfortable way of getting around. The public transport system in São Paulo includes buses and metro, making it easy to get to different parts of Northwest.

Where to Go Next from Northwest: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • São Paulo City: A cosmopolitan city that’s just a few hours away from Northwest. It’s home to various cultural, historical, and entertainment attractions.
  • Ilhabela: A beautiful island located off the coast of São Paulo that offers everything from stunning beaches to hiking trails and water sports.
  • Rio de Janeiro: The most famous city in Brazil that’s home to iconic attractions like the Christ the Redeemer statue and the Copacabana Beach.

Conclusion

Northwest, São Paulo, is a region that’s rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. It offers a unique and authentic Brazilian experience that’s worth exploring. This guide will help you plan your trip to Northwest, covering everything from places to visit, things to do, eat, and stay. Whatever your preference, Northwest has something to offer for everyone.

Pico do Jaraguá, the top of São Paulo. Pico do Jaraguá, the top of São Paulo.