Best Hikes and Trekking Trails in Brazil: Nature Adventures Across the Country

Brazil is often associated with beaches and cities, but it’s also a dream destination for hikers and nature lovers. With vast national parks, deep canyons, plateaus, waterfalls, and tropical forests, the country offers a wide range of hiking and trekking options—from short scenic trails to multi-day expeditions.

Here’s a guide to the best hikes and trekking trails in Brazil, organized by region, with practical information for planning your adventure.

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1. Vale do Pati – Chapada Diamantina (Bahia)

Often considered the best multi-day trek in Brazil, Vale do Pati is a remote, breathtaking valley surrounded by plateaus, caves, and waterfalls.

• Duration: 3–7 days
• Difficulty: Moderate to hard
• Access: From Lençóis, Guiné, or Vale do Capão
• Highlights: Cachoeirão, Morro do Castelo, casa de apoio (homestays)

Local guides are recommended, and lodging is basic but authentic.

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2. Pedra da Gávea – Rio de Janeiro

One of the most iconic hikes in Rio, Pedra da Gávea offers panoramic views of the city, ocean, and rainforest.

• Duration: 3–5 hours round trip
• Difficulty: Hard (steep with a short climbing section)
• Trailhead: Barra da Tijuca
• Tip: Go with a guide if you’re not experienced with rock scrambling

The view from the top is one of the best in Brazil.

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3. Trilha do Ouro – Serra da Bocaina (São Paulo/Rio border)

A historical trail used during the colonial period to transport gold from Minas Gerais to the coast.

• Duration: 2–4 days
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Highlights: Waterfalls, preserved Atlantic Forest, traditional villages

Perfect for combining history with nature.

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4. Serra Fina Crossing – Minas Gerais/Rio de Janeiro

This is one of the most challenging treks in Brazil, crossing high mountains and offering epic ridgelines.

• Duration: 3–5 days
• Difficulty: Very hard
• Altitude: Peaks over 2,700m
• Tip: Only for experienced trekkers with proper gear and guidance

Wild camping is required—no infrastructure.

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5. Lençóis Maranhenses Trek – Maranhão

A unique desert-like environment of white sand dunes and seasonal lagoons.

• Duration: 2–4 days
• Difficulty: Moderate (but can be intense under the sun)
• Route: From Atins or Santo Amaro through the dunes
• Best season: June to September (when lagoons are full)

Sleep in small village homes or basic pousadas.

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6. Trilha do Mirante da Janela – Chapada dos Veadeiros (Goiás)

A short but stunning trail with views of Cachoeira do Abismo and Salto do Rio Preto.

• Duration: 2–3 hours round trip
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Access: From the park’s main entrance near Alto Paraíso
• Tip: Combine with other nearby trails for a full-day hike

Ideal for casual hikers and photographers.

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7. Itatiaia National Park Trails – Rio de Janeiro/Minas Gerais

Brazil’s oldest national park offers both easy and technical hikes, including to the country’s third-highest peak.

• Popular trails:
  • Agulhas Negras (2,791m) – advanced
  • Prateleiras – moderate
  • Trilha do Lago Azul – easy family-friendly

Great infrastructure and campgrounds make it perfect for weekend treks.

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8. Monte Roraima – Roraima

This legendary flat-topped mountain inspired Arthur Conan Doyle’s The Lost World.

• Duration: 6–9 days
• Difficulty: Moderate to hard
• Start point: Venezuela, but often organized from Boa Vista, Brazil
• Features: Alien rock formations, rare plants, prehistoric vibes

Requires special permits and organization with tour agencies.

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9. Pico da Bandeira – Espírito Santo/Minas Gerais

At 2,891 meters, it’s the third highest peak in Brazil and the easiest high mountain to access.

• Duration: 4–6 hours round trip
• Trailheads: Parque Nacional do Caparaó (ES or MG sides)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Tip: Hike at night for a sunrise summit experience

Well-marked trails and basic lodging in park shelters.

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10. Cânion Itaimbezinho – Rio Grande do Sul

Located in Aparados da Serra National Park, this trail follows the rim of Brazil’s most famous canyon.

• Duration: 2–4 hours
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate
• Scenery: Cliffs, waterfalls, and Atlantic forest

Less physically intense, but incredibly scenic.

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Tips for Hiking and Trekking in Brazil

• Hire local guides for longer or remote treks
• Bring cash—rural areas may not accept cards
• Use offline maps or GPS apps (e.g., Maps.me)
• Pack light, but include layers for mountain regions
• Stay hydrated—bring plenty of water or a filter
• Respect park rules, and do not litter

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What to Pack for Brazilian Trails

• Lightweight backpack
• Trail shoes or boots
• Hat and sunscreen
• Rain jacket
• Snacks and water bottle
• First aid kit
• Bug spray
• Trekking poles (optional)

For multi-day treks, include sleeping bag, headlamp, and extra clothing.

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Final Thoughts

Brazil is a hiking paradise for those willing to explore beyond the beaches. Whether you’re crossing lunar landscapes in Lençóis Maranhenses, climbing ancient cliffs in the Chapadas, or summiting a 2,800-meter peak, the country’s trails offer adventure, biodiversity, and raw beauty.

Bring your boots—and your curiosity. Brazil’s trails will take you to places few travelers ever see.