Eldorado (São Paulo) Travel Guide

Explore the hidden treasures of Eldorado, São Paulo with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, where to eat, and more.


Introduction to Eldorado (São Paulo)

Nestled in the heart of the Santos and South Coast region of São Paulo state in Southeast Brazil, Eldorado is a charming destination that offers an immersive experience of the Brazilian culture and natural beauty. The destination boasts of lush greenery, picturesque landscapes, culturally rich sites, warm hospitality, and tasty cuisine. It is also the gateway to the magnificent Parque Estadual da Serra do Mar, one of the largest rainforest reserves in Brazil. With our guide, you can discover the hidden treasures of Eldorado and its surroundings, and experience the Brazilian culture and adventure firsthand.

List of Places to Visit in Eldorado (São Paulo)

Eldorado is rich in culture and adventure, with a plentiful range of attractions to explore. Here are some of the places to visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Casa da Cultura

Casa da Cultura located in the centro of Eldorado is one of the most precious historical sites of the area. It used to be a detention facility in the past and was transformed into a cultural center. Nowadays it hosts several cultural events such as art exhibitions, theater plays, and concerts.

Capela Bom Jesus da Ressurreição

Constructed in the 18th century, the Capela Bom Jesus da Ressurreição is a beautiful example of baroque architecture. The chapel is a unique landmark in Eldorado, thanks to its rich history, and was declared as a national monument.

Natural Attractions of Eldorado (São Paulo): Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Parque Estadual da Serra do Mar

Parque Estadual da Serra do Mar is one of the largest tropical forest reserves in Brazil. The reserve is home to an array of flora and fauna, including jaguars, pumas, and other rare species. Visitors can explore the park on foot, by horseback or bicycle, and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the region. Hiking through the Atlantic forest to pristine waterfalls is a must do in this area.

Usina Velha de Monjolinho

This is an old restored mill that was used for sugarcane processing during the 19th century. Nowadays the mill complex serves as a representation of the traditional skills used by slaves in the past and for cooking traditional meals used to be formed by this labor. The visit is exciting and instructive.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Eldorado (São Paulo)

Eldorado is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and offers plenty of opportunities for hiking and biking through lush greenery and picturesque landscapes. A few of the best bike and hiking trails are;

Trilha do Cachoeira do Meu Deus

Cachoeira do Meu Deus trail passes through dense Atlantic Rainforest, offers a beautiful view of the landscape, and leads tourists to one of the most magnificent waterfalls in Brazil.

Trilha da Ponta do Gavião

This trail has a unique view of the colorful mountains and a breathtaking view of the sea. The walk has some difficulty, but it is worth it.

Best Things to Do in Eldorado (São Paulo): Activities and Tours

Eldorado offers various adventure and cultural activities to explore. Here are the best things to do:

Paragliding and Hang-Gliding

One of the most popular activities in Eldorado is paragliding and hang-gliding. Visitors can soar over the gorgeous coastline of the Atlantic Ocean and enjoy the views of the mountains, valleys, and the ocean.

Jeep Tours

Jeep tours of Eldorado’s rainforest and the beaches are available for those who want to explore the beautiful countryside and unique landmarks.

Week-Long Itinerary for Eldorado (São Paulo)

Visiting Eldorado for a week gives visitors ample time to explore the beauty, history, and culture of the region. Here is a sample itinerary for a week-long visit:

Day 1: Explore the town and the historical sites, including Casa da Cultura, Capela Bom Jesus da Ressurreincão.

Day 2-4: Take guided tours through the Atlantic forest, hang gliding, or paragliding. Discover the Cachoeira do Meu Deus Waterfall, and hike the Trilha da Ponta do Gavião.

Day 5-6: Visit Parque Estadual da Serra do Mar and explore the rainforest and the wildlife. Enjoy swimming in Basin Mateus Nobre and visit the sugar cavies and learn how they’re operated in Usina Velha de Monjolinho.

Day 7: Take a break from adventure and unwind at one of the finest beaches, Prainha, or visit local shops to purchase souvenirs and crafts.

Food and Drink Scene of Eldorado (São Paulo)

Despite its small size, Eldorado has a thriving food scene with plenty of regional specialties.

Must-Try Dishes

Feijoada

The famous Brazilian black bean stew is the traditional dish of the area. It is prepared with black beans, pork and beef meat and eaten with rice, farofa, and couve.

Caldo de Cana

A sweet, refreshing sugarcane juice, great for warm days. A famous corner selling these fresh juices in Eldorado is located in front of Casa da Cultura.

Local Beverages

Cachaça

Cachaça is a distilled spirit made from sugarcane and is famous in Brazil. A few local producers sell cachaça with unique and extreme flavors.

Where to Stay in Eldorado (São Paulo): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Eldorado provides a range of accommodation options, suitable for every budget and preference. Here are the best options:

Eldorado Palace Hotel

This 3-star hotel is located in the center of Eldorado and has luxurious rooms, a swimming pool, and a spa.

Casa do Vento

Casa do Vento is a charming bed and breakfast, located near Eldorado’s picturesque beaches with attentive service and individual style rooms.

What to Buy in Eldorado (São Paulo): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Eldorado has several stores offering souvenirs, trinkets, and local products unique to the area. Here are the best items for purchase:

Handcrafted items

Handcrafted items made from materials such as recycled wood, glass, and plastic, can be found at local markets.

Cachaça and Sugar cane products

One of the most famous local products that Eldorado is proud of is the cachaça, Brazil’s national spirit obtained by fermenting sugarcane. Visitors must try the artisanal different flavors of cachaça produced locally and products made from sugarcane syrup.

Local Culture and Customs of Eldorado (São Paulo)

Eldorado has a proud and vibrant culture, rich in history and traditions. A few of the most important customs of the region are:

Santa Cruz Festivity

Santa Cruz is a famous festivity in Eldorado. It is a week-long celebration that takes place in May and entails processions, musical shows and events, and lastly, a rally.

Carnaval

One of the most celebrated festivals in Brazil, Carnival in Eldorado involves colorful parades, samba, music, and dancing in the streets. This event occurs in February or March, depending on the year.

Best Time to Visit Eldorado (São Paulo)

The best time to visit Eldorado is from May to September, during the winter season of Brazil, when temperatures are mild more comfortable to explore the area.

Do’s and Don’ts of Eldorado (São Paulo)

Do:

  • Respect and appreciate the culture and tradition of the locals.
  • Bring appropriate clothing when hiking and outdoor activities.
  • Take part in local festivities and events.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural beauty of the area.
  • Disrespect the local customs and traditions.
  • Expect high-end luxury accommodations or conveniences.

Safety and Health

Safety in Eldorado (São Paulo)

Eldorado is a relatively safe destination with a low crime rate. Visitors should take precautions while hiking or engaging in outdoor activities and avoid walking alone at night.

Health in Eldorado (São Paulo)

Visitors should take precautions of their health in Eldorado by using insect repellents and wearing long sleeves and pants to avoid dengue fever or skin irritation. Make sure you come with proof of vaccination against some endemic diseases in Brazil.

Getting to Eldorado (São Paulo): Transportation Options and Logistics

Visitors can reach Eldorado through a few transportation options. Here are the most convenient ones:

Airports near Eldorado (São Paulo)

São Paulo/Guarulhos - Governador André Franco Montoro International Airport, located within the biggest city in Brazil São Paulo is 150 km away from Eldorado. Visitors can take the airport shuttle or rent a car.

Bus stations near Eldorado (São Paulo)

Eldorado has a bus station with several bus companies, transporting passengers to several cities in the region, will take buses from Terminal Tietê or from Santos.

How to Get Around in Eldorado (São Paulo)

Eldorado is relatively small and easy to navigate on foot or by car. For those who want to venture to the surrounding areas, car rentals are available at affordable rates.

Where to Go Next from Eldorado (São Paulo): Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Eldorado is well-connected to neighboring destinations with several options for day trips or long hauls, here are a few of them:

Iporanga and Itaoca

Nearby cities of Iporanga and Itaoca have magnificent caverns, tracks, and rivers to explore:

Ilha do Cardoso

Ilha do Cardoso, an island that should be a visit if you are interested in a remote and preserved environment with beautiful beaches.

Conclusion

Eldorado is a hidden gem in São Paulo state, offering an immersive experience of the rich Brazilian culture, natural beauty, and outdoor adventures. With our comprehensive guide, visitors can discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay. Enjoy the warm hospitality, tasty cuisine, and all the beauty Eldorado has to offer.

Eldorado's Town hall Eldorado's Town hall Caverna do Diabo (Devil's Cave): one the most important turistic site to visit in Eldorado Caverna do Diabo (Devil's Cave): one the most important turistic site to visit in Eldorado