Campos Do Jordão – the Brazilian Switzerland, Full Day Trip

Campos do Jordão, nestled in the heart of Brazil’s mountainous region, has long been touted as the "Brazilian Switzerland." This charming town, just a few hours’ drive from São Paulo, offers visitors a chance to enjoy an alpine-inspired landscape, complete with panoramic vistas, cascading waterfalls, and the opportunity to indulge in artisanal chocolates. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a foodie, or simply seeking a respite from the hustle and bustle of the city, this full-day excursion promises to captivate your senses and leave you yearning to uncover more of Campos do Jordão’s hidden gems.

This experience made our list of the 10 Best Full-Day Tours In Sao Paulo.

Key Points

• A full-day excursion from São Paulo to the alpine-like town of Campos do Jordão, known as the "Brazilian Switzerland" for its scenic landscapes.
• Highlights include panoramic vistas from the Vista Chinesa Belvedere, the serene Ducha de Prata Waterfall, and the Araucária Chocolate Factory.
• Optional hike up the Pedra do Bau trail to an elevation of 1,964 meters and a scenic cable car ride at Parque Capivari.
• Round-trip transfers from hotels or airports, private air-conditioned transportation, and admission fees for the cable car are included.
• Recommended to wear comfortable clothing and bring sun protection for the tour.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview of the Tour

The tour takes travelers on a full-day excursion from São Paulo to the picturesque town of Campos do Jordão, often referred to as the "Brazilian Switzerland" due to its alpine-like scenery. The duration of the trip ranges from 10 to 12 hours, with private transportation provided in an air-conditioned vehicle.

Highlights include the Vista Chinesa Belvedere, offering stunning panoramic views, the Ducha de Prata Waterfall, and a visit to the Araucária Chocolate Factory to sample fresh chocolates. Plus, participants have the option to hike the Pedra do Bau trail, reaching an altitude of 1,964 meters, for an additional fee. The tour also includes a cable car ride up and down Parque Capivari.

Highlights of the Day

Atop the Vista Chinesa Belvedere, travelers bask in stunning panoramic vistas of Campos do Jordão’s alpine-inspired landscapes. The Ducha de Prata Waterfall cascades over rocky cliffs, creating a serene natural spectacle.

At the Araucária Chocolate Factory, guests indulge in fresh, artisanal chocolates. For the adventurous, the Pedra do Bau hiking trail offers a challenging trek to an elevation of 1,964 meters, rewarding climbers with breathtaking views.

The Parque Capivari provides a scenic cable car ride up and down the mountain, allowing visitors to soak in the region’s natural beauty from above.

Transportation and Inclusions

With round-trip transfers from hotels or airports included, travelers can conveniently reach Campos do Jordão from São Paulo. The full-day excursion lasts between 10-12 hours, with private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.

Once there, the admission fees for the cable car at Parque Capivari and the Pedra do Bau hiking trail are covered. However, the optional hike up Pedra do Bau, at an altitude of 1,964m, carries an additional cost of 300R$ per person.

Visitors are advised to wear comfortable clothing, sturdy shoes, and bring sun protection gear for the tour’s activities and scenic highlights, which include the Vista Chinesa Belvedere, Ducha de Prata Waterfall, and the Araucária Chocolate Factory.

Vista Chinesa Belvedere

Perched atop a scenic overlook, the Vista Chinesa Belvedere commands sweeping vistas of Campos do Jordão’s lush, rolling hills. This iconic viewpoint offers visitors a breathtaking panorama of the region’s natural beauty. Visitors can stroll along the platform and take in the stunning scenery, which includes the distant Pedra do Baú mountain and the picturesque town below.

Vista Chinesa Belvedere
Location	Campos do Jordão	Brazil
Elevation	1,700 meters (5,577 feet)	–
Highlights	Panoramic views, Pedra do Baú	–

This high-altitude viewpoint is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the "Brazilian Switzerland" of Campos do Jordão.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Ducha De Prata Waterfall

Cascading down a rocky cliff, the Ducha de Prata Waterfall is a breathtaking natural wonder that captivates visitors to Campos do Jordão. Plunging over 40 meters, the waterfall’s silvery waters create a mesmerizing display as they crash against the rocks below.

Surrounded by lush green foliage, the waterfall offers a serene and picturesque setting for visitors to admire. Guests can get up close to the waterfall, feeling the mist on their skin and listening to the soothing sound of the cascading water.

The Ducha de Prata Waterfall is undoubtedly a highlight of the Campos do Jordão tour, providing a refreshing and awe-inspiring natural experience.

Arauc Ria Chocolate Factory

The Arauc ria Chocolate Factory beckons visitors with its tantalizing aromas, inviting them to embark on a delectable journey through the art of chocolate making. At this renowned institution, guests can observe the intricate process of transforming cacao beans into rich, smooth confections. They’ll have the chance to sample the factory’s freshly prepared chocolates, savoring the unique flavors that capture the essence of the region. The experience offers a glimpse into the dedication and craftsmanship that goes into each delectable treat.

Feature	Description	Cost
Chocolate Tasting	Sample a variety of house-made chocolates	Included
Factory Tour	Guided exploration of the production facilities	Included
Chocolate-Making Class	Interactive workshop to craft your own creations	50R$

Pedra Do Bau Hiking Trail

After indulging in the delectable chocolate creations at the Araucária Chocolate Factory, visitors can embark on an exhilarating hike up the Pedra do Bau trail. The trail leads to the summit of Pedra do Bau, a renowned rock formation standing at an impressive altitude of 1,964 meters.

While the hike is optional and carries an additional cost of 300R$ per person, it offers participants the chance to challenge themselves and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The trail is recommended for experienced hikers with appropriate gear, as the terrain can be steep and strenuous at times.

Those seeking a more leisurely experience can opt to skip the hike and explore the other attractions on the tour.

Parque Capivari Cable Car

Visitors can ride the cable car up and down the mountain at Parque Capivari. The cable car ascends along the mountain’s slopes, offering panoramic views of the picturesque town and surrounding lush, verdant landscapes. It’s a popular attraction that allows visitors to easily access the mountaintop without strenuous hiking. The cable car ride takes approximately 15 minutes each way, providing ample time to soak in the breathtaking vistas.

At the top, visitors can explore the park’s hiking trails, admire the natural beauty, and visit local shops and restaurants. The cable car’s entrance fee of 60R$ is included in the tour package, making it an accessible and enjoyable part of the Campos do Jordão experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?

Photography is allowed during the tour. Visitors are encouraged to bring a camera to capture the scenic landscapes, such as the Vista Chinesa Belvedere and the Ducha de Prata Waterfall, as well as the Arauc ria Chocolate Factory.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks?

Participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, there may be opportunities to purchase refreshments during the day at the various stops along the way.

Is There a Minimum or Maximum Group Size?

There is no specified minimum or maximum group size for this tour. The tour can accommodate both small private groups as well as larger groups, though the exact capacity may depend on transportation availability.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Activities?

There are no age restrictions for the activities on the tour. Participants of all ages can enjoy the scenic views, waterfalls, chocolate factory, and cable car ride, though the Pedra do Bau hiking trail may have some physical requirements.

Can We Visit Additional Sites Not Listed in the Itinerary?

The tour itinerary covers the main highlights, but visitors can request to visit additional sites not listed, subject to availability, time constraints, and any extra fees. The tour operator will try to accommodate reasonable requests.

Recap

Campos do Jordão offers a captivating day trip from São Paulo, showcasing the region’s stunning alpine-like scenery. Visitors can explore the panoramic vistas, serene waterfalls, and indulge in local chocolate delights. With options to hike or ride a scenic cable car, this tour provides a well-rounded experience to take in the natural beauty of this charming Brazilian town.

You can check if your dates are available here: