trail · Petrópolis, RJ
Travessia Petrópolis-Teresópolis
Classic mountain crossing that traverses the high Serra dos Órgãos inside PARNASO, linking the Sede Petrópolis to the Teresópolis sector. Landscapes of granite ridges, high-altitude fields and viewpoints such as Castelos do Açu and Pedra do Sino.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Travessia Petrópolis-Teresópolis
The Petrópolis–Teresópolis Crossing is one of Brazil's most traditional mountain routes, entirely within Parque Nacional da Serra dos Órgãos (PARNASO). Officially recognized by ICMBio, it links the Sede Petrópolis and Teresópolis headquarters along roughly 30 km along the ridge. In 2026 the park maintains active visitation and updated information for those intending to undertake it. ([gov.br](https://www.gov.br/icmbio/pt-br/assuntos/unidade-de-conservacao/unidades-de-biomas/mata-atlantica/lista-de-ucs/parna-da-serra-dos-orgaos/guia-do-visitante/guia-do-visitante-1/o-que-fazer/travessia-petropolis-teresopolis/sobre-a-travessia?utm_source=openai))
Access in Petrópolis is via Vale do Bonfim, at the Sede Petrópolis (Corrêas neighborhood), a historic entry point for the route's initial section. Official park documents describe this access along Estrada do Bonfim from Corrêas, establishing the route's start within Petrópolis territory. ([gov.br](https://www.gov.br/icmbio/pt-br/centrais-de-conteudo/publicacoes/editais-diversos/editais-diversos-2022/PARNASO_CP___ANEXO_A_DO_CONTRATO___CARACTERIZACAO_DO_PARQUE_NACIONAL_DA_SERRA_DOS_ORGAOS__SEM_APENDICE__VF_.pdf?utm_source=openai))
Throughout the crossing, visitors pass striking scenery such as the plateau of Castelos do Açu and the summit of Pedra do Sino, the park's highest point, with wide views of the maciço do Dedo de Deus and Baía de Guanabara on clear days. These natural landmarks are listed among PARNASO's highlights and help explain the route's renown. ([pt.wikipedia.org](https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parque_Nacional_da_Serra_dos_%C3%93rg%C3%A3os?utm_source=openai))
To do the crossing with an overnight stay, online booking is mandatory for the regulated camping areas around Açu and Sino, according to public use rules. Those doing it in a single day (without overnight) should follow the park's specific guidance. It is recommended to read the official rules and guidance before departure. ([icmbio.gov.br](https://www.icmbio.gov.br/parnaserradosorgaos/images/Regras%20de%20Uso%20P%C3%BAblico%20PARNASO.pdf?utm_source=openai))
The best experience usually occurs in the colder, drier months, when visibility tends to be better and there is less rain in the mountains — a period traditionally marking the opening of the mountaineering season in the mountain region. ([odia.ig.com.br](https://odia.ig.com.br/guapimirim/2026/05/amp/7251512-guapimirim-sedia-a-atm-2026-pela-primeira-vez.html?utm_source=openai))
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
Allow 2 to 3 days for the classic route with overnight stays at the Açu and Sino campgrounds; very experienced hikers may opt for a one-day push.
Best time
Prefer the colder, drier part of the year, when visibility on the ridges is better and wind disperses cloud cover. Starting early helps avoid fog on the Isabeloca ascent and reach shelters/campgrounds in daylight. In case of strong cold fronts, reconsider the trip. ([odia.ig.com.br](https://odia.ig.com.br/guapimirim/2026/05/amp/7251512-guapimirim-sedia-a-atm-2026-pela-primeira-vez.html?utm_source=openai))
How to get there
From downtown Petrópolis, follow to Corrêas and enter Vale do Bonfim via Estrada do Bonfim toward Sede Petrópolis (Bonfim), the PARNASO gate used to start the crossing. Access by urban/road routes is signposted in the area; confirm conditions with the park. ([gov.br](https://www.gov.br/icmbio/pt-br/centrais-de-conteudo/publicacoes/editais-diversos/editais-diversos-2022/PARNASO_CP___ANEXO_A_DO_CONTRATO___CARACTERIZACAO_DO_PARQUE_NACIONAL_DA_SERRA_DOS_ORGAOS__SEM_APENDICE__VF_.pdf?utm_source=openai))
Tip
Book the overnight in advance via the official system, bring protection against cold and high-altitude wind, sufficient water and food, and reliable navigation. Follow the Public Use Rules and code of conduct (including waste management) published by ICMBio. ([gov.br](https://www.gov.br/icmbio/pt-br/assuntos/biodiversidade/unidade-de-conservacao/unidades-de-biomas/mata-atlantica/lista-de-ucs/parna-da-serra-dos-orgaos/agendamento-para-camping/agendamento-para-camping?utm_source=openai))
Official website
A look at the place
Travessia Petrópolis-Teresópolis 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 Travessia Petrópolis-Teresópolis
Do I need to reserve to overnight on the crossing?
Yes. Overnight stays are only allowed in authorized camping areas and must be booked through ICMBio's official system.
Can the crossing be done in 1 day?
It is possible for very experienced mountaineers; the park treats this format as a no-overnight activity, with specific guidance.
Where does it start in Petrópolis?
At Sede Petrópolis (Vale do Bonfim), accessed via Estrada do Bonfim from Corrêas.
Is hiring a guide mandatory?
It is not required, but it is recommended for beginners or in uncertain weather conditions.
Can I camp anywhere along the trail?
No. Camping is restricted to the areas around the Açu and Sino campgrounds, in accordance with park rules.