Vargem Grande Paulista Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, outdoor adventures, food scene, accommodations, and tips for experiencing Vargem Grande Paulista, Brazil. Plan your trip to this beautiful destination today!


Introduction to Vargem Grande Paulista

Located in the Brazilian state of São Paulo, Vargem Grande Paulista is a small municipality with a population of just under 55,000 people. The town is situated in the scenic countryside, surrounded by rolling hills and lush greenery. Vargem Grande Paulista is a great destination for travelers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the big city and immerse themselves in nature.

List of Places to Visit in Vargem Grande Paulista

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Museum da Estrada de Ferro Sorocabana - A historical museum that showcases the history of the Sorocabana Railway, featuring photographs, artifacts, and a small locomotive.
  • Casa das Estrelas Observatory - An observatory that offers guided tours and views of the night sky.
  • Museu de Geociências da UNESP - A museum focused on geology, featuring collections of rocks, fossils, and minerals.

Natural Attractions of Vargem Grande Paulista: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Ecológico Vargem Grande Park - A large park with hiking trails, fishing ponds, and a playground.
  • Parque Cemucam - A large park with areas for picnicking, hiking, and biking.
  • Mirante do Cristal - A scenic overlook with breathtaking views of the surrounding hills.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Vargem Grande Paulista

Vargem Grande Paulista is a great place for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of hiking and biking routes available. Some of the top routes to check out include:

  • Trilha do Ribeirão - A 5-kilometer hike that takes you through beautiful forests, past natural springs, and along the banks of the Ribeirão.
  • Trilha dos Coqueiros - A 4-kilometer hike that takes you through a coconut grove and past a beautiful lake.
  • Estrada de Caucaia do Alto - A bike route that takes you through the countryside, with stunning views of the surrounding hills and farms.

Best Things to Do in Vargem Grande Paulista: Activities and Tours

  • Horseback Riding - Take the opportunity to explore the countryside on horseback with a guided tour.
  • Zip Lining - Get a bird’s eye view of the countryside with a zip line tour.
  • Hot Air Balloon Ride - Take a romantic hot air balloon ride and enjoy the beauty of the landscape from above.

Week-Long Itinerary for Vargem Grande Paulista

Here’s a seven-day itinerary that will allow you to explore the best of what Vargem Grande Paulista has to offer:

  • Day 1 - Visit the Museum da Estrada de Ferro Sorocabana.
  • Day 2 - Take a horseback riding tour of the countryside.
  • Day 3 - Visit the Ecológico Vargem Grande Park.
  • Day 4 - Take a hot air balloon ride and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding hills.
  • Day 5 - Visit the Casa das Estrelas Observatory.
  • Day 6 - Hike the Trilha do Ribeirão and enjoy the natural beauty of the forest and river.
  • Day 7 - Take a zip line tour of the countryside.

Food and Drink Scene of Vargem Grande Paulista

Must-Try Dishes

When in Vargem Grande Paulista, be sure to sample these delicious local dishes:

  • Pão de Queijo - A traditional Brazilian snack made with cassava flour and cheese.
  • Brigadeiro - A sweet dessert made with condensed milk, chocolate, and butter.
  • Feijoada - A hearty black bean stew that’s a staple of Brazilian cuisine.

Local Beverages

Here are some popular local drinks to try in Vargem Grande Paulista:

  • Caipirinha - A popular Brazilian cocktail made with cachaça, sugar, and lime.
  • Cerveja - Brazil has a large beer culture, and you’ll find a variety of local and international beers available in Vargem Grande Paulista.
  • Guarana - A popular Brazilian soft drink made with the guarana fruit.

Where to Stay in Vargem Grande Paulista: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Here are some top accommodation options in Vargem Grande Paulista:

  • Pousada Morada Verde - A cozy guesthouse with individually decorated rooms and a beautiful garden.
  • Hotel fazenda Dona Carolina - A luxurious countryside retreat with a swimming pool, sauna, and horseback riding tours.
  • Hotel Santa Helena - A budget-friendly option with comfortable rooms and a central location.

What to Buy in Vargem Grande Paulista: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When in Vargem Grande Paulista, be sure to check out these local products:

  • Coffee - Brazil is famous for its coffee, and you’ll find plenty of local roasters in Vargem Grande Paulista.
  • Handcrafted Souvenirs - Vargem Grande Paulista is known for its local artisans, who make beautiful handmade ceramics and textiles.
  • Cachaça - Brazil’s national liquor, cachaça is made from fermented sugarcane juice and is a popular souvenir item.

Local Culture and Customs of Vargem Grande Paulista

Like much of Brazil, Vargem Grande Paulista has a rich and diverse cultural heritage. Here are a few things to keep in mind when visiting:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions, including dress codes and appropriate behavior.
  • Learn a few basic phrases in Portuguese to help communicate with the locals.
  • Take some time to learn about Brazil’s history and culture before your trip.

Best Time to Visit Vargem Grande Paulista

Vargem Grande Paulista has a mild climate, with cool temperatures in the winter and warm temperatures in the summer. The best time to visit is between May and September, when the weather is mild and dry.

Do’s and Don’ts of Vargem Grande Paulista

Do:

  • Be respectful of the local culture and traditions.
  • Be mindful of the environment and avoid littering.
  • Try the local cuisine and drinks.

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothing in public places.
  • Drink tap water without boiling it first.
  • Leave valuables unattended.

Safety and Health

Safety in Vargem Grande Paulista

Vargem Grande Paulista is a relatively safe destination, but it’s important to take basic safety precautions, such as avoiding unlit areas at night and keeping your valuables close. If you’re planning to hike or explore the outdoors, be sure to familiarize yourself with the area and take appropriate safety precautions.

Health in Vargem Grande Paulista

Brazil has a large number of mosquito-borne illnesses, including Zika, Dengue, and Chikungunya. To avoid these illnesses, be sure to wear insect repellent and long, lightweight clothing.

Getting to Vargem Grande Paulista: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Vargem Grande Paulista

The closest international airport to Vargem Grande Paulista is São Paulo–Guarulhos International Airport, which is approximately 60 kilometers away.

Bus Stations Near Vargem Grande Paulista

There are several bus stations in the nearby city of São Paulo that serve Vargem Grande Paulista. Some of the top bus companies include Cometa, Expresso Prata, and Viação Itapemirim.

Other Options

If you’re renting a car, Vargem Grande Paulista is easily accessible via the BR-116 highway. You can also take a taxi or hire a private car service for transportation.

How to Get Around in Vargem Grande Paulista

The best way to get around Vargem Grande Paulista is by car or bike. There are several car rental companies in town, and bikes can be rented from local tour operators.

Where to Go Next from Vargem Grande Paulista: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore more of the São Paulo region, here are a few nearby destinations worth checking out:

  • São Roque - A popular day trip destination known for its wineries and vineyards.
  • Embu das Artes - A charming town with a vibrant arts scene and a weekly craft market.
  • Serra da Cantareira - A beautiful mountain range with hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic views.

Conclusion

Vargem Grande Paulista is a beautiful and tranquil destination that’s perfect for travelers looking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in nature. With its beautiful parks, hiking trails, and cultural attractions, there’s something here for everyone. Plan your trip to Vargem Grande Paulista today and discover the beauty of this hidden gem in São Paulo.