Hikes & Trails

Mountains around the city

The mountains surrounding Petrópolis form one of the richest hiking landscapes in southeastern Brazil.

The city sits within the Serra do Mar mountain range, where dense Atlantic Forest climbs steep slopes and granite peaks rise above deep valleys.

In many places, trails begin just minutes from town — making it possible to move quickly from historic streets to quiet forest paths.

Part of the protected area of the Parque Nacional da Serra dos Órgãos (PARNASO) lies within the municipality of Petrópolis itself.

Here the landscape becomes more dramatic — steep ridges, high altitude fields and some of the most impressive mountain scenery in Brazil.

Some of Brazil’s most iconic mountain routes are found here.

Trails to peaks such as Pedra do Sino and the rocky plateau of Castelos do Açu attract hikers from around the world.

These routes reveal the dramatic landscapes of the Serra dos Órgãos — granite towers, deep valleys and sweeping views across the Atlantic Forest.

In the mountains around Petrópolis, hiking fits naturally into the rhythm of the day.

A walk through the forest can easily be combined with lunch in town, a visit to a café, or a relaxed evening in the mountains.