Barra do Turvo Travel Guide

Plan your next trip to Barra do Turvo with our travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, food and drink scene, local culture, and more.


Introduction to Barra do Turvo

Barra do Turvo is a small town located in the interior of São Paulo state, around 250km from the state capital, São Paulo city. Situated in the Serra do Mar mountain range, the town is surrounded by lush greenery and natural beauty. Barra do Turvo is a great destination for those looking for an escape from urban life and to explore nature.

List of Places to Visit in Barra do Turvo

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Capela Nossa Senhora Aparecida: This small chapel, located in the town center, is a popular attraction for its beautiful architecture and religious significance.
  • Museu do Escoteiro Mais Antigo do Brasil: Founded in 1924, this museum showcases the history of the Scout movement in Brazil and is worth a visit for Scout enthusiasts.

Natural Attractions of Barra do Turvo: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Parque Estadual da Serra do Mar: This state park is one of the largest and most important nature reserves in Brazil, protecting a huge area of the Atlantic Forest. Visitors can hike trails, take guided tours, and spot local wildlife.
  • Cachoeira da Barra: This beautiful waterfall is located just outside of town and is popular for swimming and picnicking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Barra do Turvo

Barra do Turvo offers great options for visitors who like to explore nature on foot or by bike. Some of the best routes to check out include:

  • Trilha do Rio Branco: A beautiful hike that leads through the rainforest, past waterfalls and streams.
  • Caminho do Itapuã: This is a popular bike route that travels through the Quinta do Una reserve.

Best Things to Do in Barra do Turvo: Activities and Tours

  • Birdwatching: The region is home to many species of birds, and guided birdwatching tours are available.
  • Horseback Riding: Explore the stunning scenery of Barra do Turvo on horseback.
  • Tasting Local Food: Barra do Turvo is famous for its homemade cheese, and tasting tours are available at local farms.

Week-Long Itinerary for Barra do Turvo

Day 1 Arrival and check-in at hotel
Day 2 Visit Parque Estadual da Serra do Mar and hike Trilha do Rio Branco
Day 3 Take a birdwatching tour and visit the Museu do Escoteiro Mais Antigo do Brasil
Day 4 Horseback Riding at a local farm then visit Capela Nossa Senhora Aparecida
Day 5 Bike tour on Caminho do Itapuã
Day 6 Relax at Cachoeira da Barra
Day 7 Departure from Barra do Turvo

Food and Drink Scene of Barra do Turvo

Must-Try Dishes

  • Queijo Prato: This homemade cheese is famous in Barra do Turvo, and is available to try at local farms.
  • Feijão Tropeiro: A traditional Brazilian dish made with beans, sausage, and flour.
  • Cachaça: Brazil’s famous distilled alcohol is produced in the region and is worth a try.

Local Beverages

  • Café: The region around Barra do Turvo is known for its coffee production, and visitors should try a cup of the local brew.
  • Guaraná: This popular Brazilian soda is widely available in the region.

Where to Stay in Barra do Turvo: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Pousada das Hortênsias: This cozy guesthouse offers comfortable rooms and is located close to the town center.
  • Hotel Fazenda Bom Será: Situated just outside of Barra do Turvo, this hotel has a swimming pool, horseback riding, and hiking trails.

What to Buy in Barra do Turvo: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Homemade cheese: Take home some of Barra do Turvo’s prized Queijo Prato.
  • Cachaça: This famous Brazilian spirit is produced in the region and is a great souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Barra do Turvo

Visitors to Barra do Turvo should be aware of the following local customs:

  • Respect for religion: Barra do Turvo has many religious festivals throughout the year, and visitors should be respectful of these events.
  • Traditional cuisine: The region is proud of its traditional food and drink, and visitors should try to taste as much as possible.

Best Time to Visit Barra do Turvo

The best time to visit Barra do Turvo is between May and September, when the weather is dry and cool. The town can be very busy during weekends and holidays, so visitors may want to plan their visit accordingly.

Do’s and Don’ts of Barra do Turvo

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Explore the outdoors and appreciate the natural beauty of the region.

Don’t:

  • Ignore the rules of nature reserves and parks.
  • Causes damage to the environment or wildlife.

Safety and Health

Safety in Barra do Turvo

Barra do Turvo is a relatively safe destination for visitors, but it’s important to take precautions such as:

  • Avoiding walking alone at night.
  • Locking doors and windows in hotels and guesthouses.

Health in Barra do Turvo

It’s recommended that visitors to Barra do Turvo have up to date vaccinations for Hepatitis A and B. Visitors should also take precautions against mosquito-borne illnesses such as dengue fever.

Getting to Barra do Turvo: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Barra do Turvo

  • São Paulo–Congonhas Airport (CGH)
  • São Paulo-Guarulhos International Airport (GRU)

Bus Stations Near Barra do Turvo

  • Santos Bus Terminal
  • Terminal Rodoviário de Jacupiranga

Other Options

  • Taxis and rental cars are available from nearby cities.

How to Get Around in Barra do Turvo

The best way to get around Barra do Turvo is by car. Taxis are also available, but they can be expensive.

Where to Go Next from Barra do Turvo: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • São Paulo: Brazil’s largest city, and the center of culture, art, and commerce in the country.
  • Ilha Comprida: A beautiful island town located on the Atlantic coast.

Conclusion

Barra do Turvo is an excellent destination for those looking to explore nature and escape urban life. From hiking and biking to horseback riding and birdwatching, there’s plenty to do for visitors of all ages. Add to that the region’s delicious food and drink scene, and it’s easy to see why Barra do Turvo is a great place to visit in São Paulo state.