park · Morretes, PR
Parque Estadual Pico do Marumbi
Created in 1990 in the Serra do Mar, it protects the Conjunto Marumbi, a group of nine peaks, the highest of which is Olimpo, at 1,539 meters. The first known ascent to the summit, in 1879, is considered the starting point of mountaineering in Brazil.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Parque Estadual Pico do Marumbi
The Parque Estadual Pico do Marumbi (state park) protects one of the highest and best-preserved stretches of Paraná's Serra do Mar. Created in 1990, it extends across Morretes, Piraquara and Quatro Barras and centers on the Conjunto Marumbi, a massif of rocky peaks covered in Atlantic Forest.
The highest point is Olimpo, at 1,539 meters. On August 21, 1879, Joaquim Olímpio de Miranda reached the summit in what is considered the first climb for sport in Brazil. That is why Marumbi is regarded as the birthplace of mountaineering in the country.
The visit begins at the Estação Marumbi, a stop on the old Curitiba–Paranaguá railway, at the foot of the mountain. From there the trails to the summits set out, such as the Frontal (White), more direct and very steep, and the Noroeste (Red), longer and with stretches of metal rungs and ropes. For something lighter, there is Morro do Rochedinho, with a view of the massif, and the Salto dos Macacos waterfall. The park is also crossed by the historic Caminho do Itupava (trail).
The climb to the peaks is tough: it takes good fitness, hiking shoes and the whole day. There is a camping area by the base, and you must register at the entrance and sign a risk acknowledgment form. The trails have no accessibility features.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
A full day to climb one of the peaks; half a day for Rochedinho and the area around the station.
Best time
April to August, when it rains less and skies tend to be clearer; start early, because access to the peak trails is only allowed in the first hours of the morning and fog tends to close in during the afternoon.
How to get there
By car, head to the Porto de Cima neighborhood in Morretes and take the Prainhas road to the IAT Base Prainhas; from there it is about 4.6 km, on foot or by car, to the Estação Marumbi. You can also arrive on the train between Curitiba and the coast, which stops at the station; confirm the stop when you buy your ticket.
Tip
Set out very early, bring water, a flashlight and a rain jacket, and don't climb alone. In the Serra do Mar the weather changes quickly: if the fog closes in, go back down the same trail.
Official website
A look at the place
Parque Estadual Pico do Marumbi in pictures
These pictures are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs. They may differ from the place.
Click the picture to enlarge it.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Parque Estadual Pico do Marumbi
What is the highest point of Marumbi?
Pico Olimpo, at 1,539 meters. The Conjunto Marumbi also has other summits, such as Gigante, Ponta do Tigre and Abrolhos.
Is the Marumbi trail difficult?
Yes. The trails to the peaks are long and steep, with stretches of metal rungs and ropes. They require good fitness and the whole day. For beginners, the option is Morro do Rochedinho.
Do I need to register to climb Marumbi?
Yes. You sign in and out at the park entrance and sign a risk acknowledgment form. Check the rules and hours on the IAT website.
How do I get to the Parque Estadual Pico do Marumbi?
By car, through the Porto de Cima neighborhood in Morretes to the Base Prainhas, and from there to the Estação Marumbi. You can also arrive on the train from Curitiba, which stops at the station.
Can you camp at Marumbi?
Yes, there is a camping area by the Estação Marumbi base. Camping elsewhere is prohibited, and campfires are not allowed.