Serra do Mar State Park Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Serra do Mar State Park with this comprehensive guide, including things to do, where to eat and stay, safety and health tips, and transportation options.


Introduction to Serra do Mar State Park

Located in the North Coast region of São Paulo, Brazil, Serra do Mar State Park is a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. With over 315,000 hectares of preserved Atlantic rainforest, the park is home to a plethora of flora and fauna, including several endangered species. Visitors can explore numerous trails that wind through the mountains, offering breathtaking views of the coastline and various waterfalls.

List of Places to Visit in Serra do Mar State Park

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

For those interested in history and culture, Serra do Mar State Park has a few options to explore, including:

  • Ruins of the old railway: This railway was built in the late 19th century to transport coffee beans from the hills to the port of Santos. After over a century of operations, the railway was dismantled, but some ruins remain in the park that visitors can explore.
  • Casa do Engenheiro: Formerly the residence of the park’s engineer, this building now serves as a museum that exhibits the history and preservation of the park.

Natural Attractions of Serra do Mar State Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Serra do Mar State Park boasts a wide variety of natural attractions, including:

  • Cunha Waterfall: This waterfall is located at the park’s highest point and offers a panoramic view of the surroundings. Visitors can also refresh themselves in the natural pool at the bottom of the waterfall.
  • Pico do Corcovado: At an altitude of 1,050 meters, this is one of the park’s highest peaks and offers a stunning view of the entire coastline. The hike to the top takes around three hours and is moderately difficult.
  • Sacramento Beach: This is the park’s only beach and can be reached by boat or by hiking the 10-kilometer-long trail from Barra do Una. Due to its difficult access, this beach is usually quiet and pristine.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Serra do Mar State Park

Serra do Mar State Park has an extensive network of trails that lead visitors through the dense rainforest and offer stunning views of the coastline. Some of the most popular routes include:

  • Pereque-Açu Trail: At 9.5 kilometers long, this trail passes through several waterfalls and is one of the easiest routes in the park.
  • Borrifos Trail: This 12-kilometer-long trail takes visitors to the top of Pico do Corcovado and offers breathtaking views of the coastline.
  • Divisa Trail: This 14-kilometer-long trail leads visitors to the top of Pico da Serra and offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Best Things to Do in Serra do Mar State Park: Activities and Tours

Aside from hiking and exploring the park’s natural attractions, visitors can also enjoy a variety of activities and tours, including:

  • Birdwatching: Serra do Mar State Park is home to over 300 species of birds, making it an ideal destination for birdwatchers.
  • Kayaking: Visitors can rent kayaks and explore the park’s rivers and mangroves.
  • Guided tours: Visitors can book guided tours that explore the park’s natural and cultural attractions.

Week-Long Itinerary for Serra do Mar State Park

Day 1: Arrive at the park and settle into your accommodation. Visit the Casa do Engenheiro Museum to learn about the park’s history and preservation.

Day 2: Hike the Pereque-Açu Trail, which passes through several waterfalls and offers stunning views of the rainforest.

Day 3: Explore the Ruins of the old railway and learn about the history of coffee production in the region.

Day 4: Take a guided tour of the park’s natural and cultural attractions, such as the Cunha Waterfall and Casa do Engenheiro.

Day 5: Kayak down the park’s rivers and mangroves.

Day 6: Hike to the top of Pico do Corcovado and enjoy the panoramic views of the coastline.

Day 7: Spend the day at Sacramento Beach, the park’s only beach, and relax before departing.

Food and Drink Scene of Serra do Mar State Park

Must-Try Dishes

The North Coast region of São Paulo is known for its seafood, and visitors to Serra do Mar State Park can indulge in various seafood dishes such as:

  • Moqueca: A seafood stew made with coconut milk, dendê oil, and various spices.
  • Pastel de Camarão: A fried pastry filled with shrimp and other ingredients.

Local Beverages

  • Cachaça: A distilled spirit made from sugarcane that is popular in Brazil.
  • Caipirinha: A cocktail made with cachaça, lime, and sugar.

Where to Stay in Serra do Mar State Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Serra do Mar State Park has a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences, including:

  • Eco Park Hotel: Located at the park’s entrance, this hotel offers comfortable rooms and a range of amenities, including a swimming pool and restaurant.
  • Barra do Una Hostel: This hostel is located near the beach and offers dormitory and private rooms at affordable prices.
  • Pousada Jacarandá: This guesthouse is located near the park’s trails and offers comfortable rooms and a peaceful atmosphere.

What to Buy in Serra do Mar State Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors to Serra do Mar State Park can bring home various souvenirs and local products such as:

  • Handcrafted items: Visitors can purchase handmade items such as pottery and woven baskets from local artisans.
  • Cachaça: Visitors can bring home bottles of cachaça produced by local distilleries.

Local Culture and Customs of Serra do Mar State Park

The North Coast region of São Paulo is heavily influenced by Afro-Brazilian culture, and visitors can experience this through various events and festivals such as:

  • Festa do Divino: A religious festival that takes place in May or June and involves parades, music, and food.
  • Festa de São Benedito: A festival that celebrates the patron saint of Afro-Brazilian culture, featuring music, dance, and food.

Best Time to Visit Serra do Mar State Park

The best time to visit Serra do Mar State Park is from April to October, during the dry season, when the weather is cooler and there is less rainfall. However, visitors should note that the park’s trails can be muddy and slippery during and after rainfall.

Do’s and Don’ts of Serra do Mar State Park

Do:

  • Respect the park’s wildlife and do not disturb or harm any animals.
  • Follow the park’s rules and regulations, such as staying on designated trails and not littering.
  • Be prepared for your hike by bringing appropriate clothing, footwear, and water.

Don’t:

  • Feed or approach any animals in the park.
  • Smoke or start fires in the park.
  • Leave any litter or trash behind.

Safety and Health

Safety in Serra do Mar State Park

While Serra do Mar State Park is generally safe for visitors, there are some safety considerations to keep in mind, such as:

  • Being aware of your surroundings and avoiding isolated areas of the park.
  • Being careful while hiking and using appropriate caution on steep or slippery sections of trails.
  • Keeping valuables locked up and out of sight while in your accommodation.

Health in Serra do Mar State Park

Visitors to Serra do Mar State Park should take appropriate health precautions, such as:

  • Bringing insect repellent as the park has mosquitoes and other insects.
  • Drinking bottled or purified water to avoid getting sick from contaminated water.
  • Wearing appropriate clothing and sunscreen to protect against the sun and heat.

Getting to Serra do Mar State Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Serra do Mar State Park

The closest airport to Serra do Mar State Park is Guarulhos International Airport in São Paulo, approximately 143 kilometers away. From there, visitors can take a taxi or bus to the park.

Bus Station Near Serra do Mar State Park

The closest bus station to Serra do Mar State Park is in São Sebastião, approximately 14 kilometers away. From there, visitors can take a taxi or bus to the park.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Serra do Mar State Park by car or by ferry from São Sebastião.

How to Get Around in Serra do Mar State Park

The best way to get around Serra do Mar State Park is by hiking or by hiring a guide to take you around.

Where to Go Next from Serra do Mar State Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors to Serra do Mar State Park can extend their trip by visiting nearby destinations such as:

  • Ubatuba: A beach town located to the north of Serra do Mar State Park that boasts over 100 beaches and a range of tourist attractions.
  • Ilhabela: An island located off the coast near São Sebastião that is known for its beaches, waterfalls, and hiking trails.

Conclusion

Serra do Mar State Park offers visitors a chance to explore the stunning natural beauty of the Atlantic rainforest while also learning about the region’s history and culture. With a range of activities and accommodation options, visitors can customize their trip to suit their preferences and budgets. By following the park’s rules and regulations and taking appropriate safety and health precautions, visitors can have a safe and unforgettable experience.

One of the roads that cross the Serra do Mar State Park. One of the roads that cross the Serra do Mar State Park.