natural monument · São José do Vale do Rio Preto, RJ
Monumento Natural da Pedra das Flores
A protected area created in 2005 in the Serra do Capim, with high-altitude grasslands rich in bromeliads and orchids and a summit of almost 1,200 meters. From the top, on clear days, you can see the Dedo de Deus and other mountains of the Serra dos Órgãos.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Monumento Natural da Pedra das Flores
The Monumento Natural da Pedra das Flores is a municipal protected area in São José do Vale do Rio Preto, in the Rio de Janeiro mountain region. It protects a group of rock mountains and high-altitude grasslands, with Atlantic Forest on the lower slopes.
The area was created by municipal decree in 2006 and is managed by the Municipal Department of the Environment. The name comes from the flowers that cover the high grasslands: bromeliads, orchids and other species that are at their showiest in spring.
The outing is a mountain trail. The path starts by climbing through the forest, passes open stretches with views of the valleys and reaches a stream running over the rock, a classic rest and camping spot. Then comes a very steep rock section and a final stretch entirely on bare rock, where the route can confuse first-timers.
The summit is over a thousand meters high. On clear days, the view reaches the Dedo de Deus and other mountains of the Serra dos Órgãos. Watching the sunset from the top is a favorite for campers.
This outing is for people with trail experience and good fitness. It is not recommended for small children or people with limited mobility.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
Allow the whole day to go up and down; many people prefer to camp and spend the night.
Best time
Spring is when the grasslands bloom; dry days with clear skies, more common in winter, guarantee the view of the Serra dos Órgãos and make the rock less slippery.
How to get there
It is in the countryside of São José do Vale do Rio Preto, in the Rio de Janeiro mountain region. Access is on foot only, by trail; arrange the starting point with a local guide or a regional mountaineering group.
Tip
Go with a guide or someone who knows the way: on the final stretch, over bare rock, there are only arrows scratched into the stone. Bring water, sunscreen and a short rope if you are carrying a heavy backpack for the steepest section.
A look at the place
Monumento Natural da Pedra das Flores 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 Monumento Natural da Pedra das Flores
Do I need a guide to climb the Pedra das Flores?
It is highly recommended. The final stretch is entirely on rock, with few markings, and there is a very steep rock section.
Is the Pedra das Flores trail difficult?
It is moderate to difficult: a climb through the forest, open stretches in the sun and a scramble up sloping rock. It requires good fitness.
Can you see the Dedo de Deus from the Pedra das Flores?
Yes, on clear days the Dedo de Deus and other mountains of the Serra dos Órgãos appear on the horizon.
Can you camp on the Pedra das Flores?
Many groups camp along the way and near the top. Since it is a protected area, check the rules with the Municipal Department of the Environment first.
What is the best time of year to see the flowers?
Spring, when bromeliads, orchids and other high-altitude grassland flowers are in full bloom.