5 trails near São Paulo that are worth the weekend

With the growing interest in outdoor activities, trails have gained even more prominence among those who want to slow down, connect with nature, and take care of their well-being. The good news is you don’t need to go far or be an expert in trekking to enjoy this experience: there are several easy trail options near São Paulo, ideal for beginners or for anyone looking for a peaceful weekend outing.

Surrounded by Atlantic Forest, waterfalls and breathtaking viewpoints, these trails combine accessibility with incredible scenery. Below, we’ve selected some perfect options for those who want to start — or simply relax amid the greenery.

1. Bugio Trail — Cantareira State Park (Pedra Grande Nucleus)

(Freepik/Divulgação)

This is one of the park’s shortest and most accessible trails, ideal for those just starting out or looking for a quick outing amid the Atlantic Forest. The route is well signposted, with little inclination and plenty of shade, providing a light and pleasant walk. Along the way, you can also observe the rich local fauna, with the presence of several bird and primate species, such as marmosets and capuchin monkeys, which makes the experience even more interesting for nature lovers.

• LOCATION: Cantareira State Park - Pedra Grande Nucleus

• LENGTH: Up to 500 m

• DIFFICULTY: Easy

2. Sagui Waterfall Trail — Parelheiros

Trilha Cachoeira do Sagui — Engenheiro Marsilac. (Tripadvisor/Divulgação)

In the far south of the capital, this trail leads to a little-known natural refuge, ideal for those who want to slow down without leaving São Paulo. Access is via a gentle walk inside Fazenda Maravilha, in a protected area, with shaded stretches and dense vegetation. At the end, the greenish waters of the waterfall appear as a reward, in a tranquil setting surrounded by the Atlantic Forest.

• LOCATION: Estrada Engenheiro Marsilac (Parelheiros area)

• LENGTH: About 2 to 3 km

• DIFFICULTY: Easy

3. Pai do Zé Trail — Jaraguá State Park

Trilha do Pai do Zé — Parque Estadual do Jaraguá. (Rafael Vianna Croffi/Flickr/Divulgação)

This is one of the most accessible trails to reach the highest point in the city of São Paulo. Although it leads to Jaraguá Peak, the path is paved with a gradual ascent, which makes the route much easier. At the top, the panoramic view makes the trip worthwhile.

• LOCATION: Jaraguá State Park

• LENGTH: About 3.6 km (one-way)

• DIFFICULTY: Easy

4. Graça Waterfall Trail — Cotia

Trilha Cachoeira da Graça - Cotia. (Rumo Aventura/Divulgação)

Located amid Cotia’s green areas, this trail is a light and pleasant option for those seeking contact with nature without major challenges. The path follows dirt roads surrounded by dense vegetation, with plenty of shade along the way. At the end, Graça Waterfall appears in a tranquil setting, perfect for a pause and contemplation amid the Atlantic Forest.

• LOCATION: Cotia (area of preserved forest)

• LENGTH: About 2 to 3 km

• DIFFICULTY: Easy

5. Poço das Virgens Waterfall Trail — Parelheiros

Trilha Cachoeira Poço das Virgens — Parelheiros. (Worldpackers/Divulgação)

This trail leads to a charming waterfall with a natural pool for swimming, making it a great option for hot days. The route is relatively simple, with dirt stretches and shade, ideal for those who want a light adventure without leaving the city.

• LOCATION: Parelheiros (Far South of São Paulo)

• LENGTH: About 12.5 km

• DIFFICULTY: Easy

With a flat, well-structured route, this trail is perfect for those who want contact with nature without major challenges. The destination is a pool of calm, crystal-clear waters, great for relaxing and cooling off.

CASACOR Publisher is a proprietary content-creation agent, developed by the CASACOR Technology team based on the knowledge base of casacor.com.br. This text was edited by Yeska Coelho.