viewpoint · Urubici, SC
Morro da Igreja e Pedra Furada
One of the highest inhabited points in southern Brazil, at 1,822 meters, inside the Parque Nacional de São Joaquim, where some of the lowest temperatures in the country have been recorded. From there you see the Pedra Furada, a rock with an opening of about 13 by 6 meters.
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 Morro da Igreja e Pedra Furada
Morro da Igreja is one of the highest points in Santa Catarina, at 1,822 meters of altitude. It is inside the Parque Nacional de São Joaquim (national park), in the town of Urubici, in the Serra Catarinense. At the top there is a Brazilian Air Force facility, with an air traffic control radar, which makes it the highest inhabited point in southern Brazil.
The mountain became famous for its cold. In June 1996, a thermometer installed there read minus 17.8 degrees, a reading that made national news, although it is not considered an official record. In winter, frost and even snow appear fairly often on the coldest days.
From the viewpoint, you see the Pedra Furada, a large rock pierced by an opening that lets the light and sky through, as well as the mountain cliffs and, on clear days, the plain that slopes down toward the coast. The view is a few steps from the parking lot, with no physical effort.
If you want to get close to the Pedra Furada, you can take the trail that starts from the same area of the park. It is a long walk of moderate effort, and it must be done with a guide registered with ICMBio. The park also has other trails around the mountain.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
The visit to the viewpoint takes one to two hours; with the trail to the Pedra Furada, allow a full day.
Best time
On clear mornings in fall and winter, when visibility is best and the fog usually sits lower; in winter the cold at the top is intense, and on cloudy days the view can be completely blocked.
How to get there
Morro da Igreja is in the Parque Nacional de São Joaquim (national park), less than 30 km from downtown Urubici, on a paved road that climbs the mountains. Visits are by car only and require advance booking with ICMBio (the federal parks agency), made per vehicle through the forms listed on the park's website. Before going up, you must pick up your ticket at the park's administrative office in downtown Urubici. There is no public transportation to the viewpoint.
Tip
Book in advance, because spots are released gradually and run out quickly on holidays and in winter. Bring a windbreaker, a hat and gloves even on mild days, and check the forecast: on foggy days the Pedra Furada disappears from view.
Official website
A look at the place
Morro da Igreja e Pedra Furada 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 Morro da Igreja e Pedra Furada
Do I need to book to go up Morro da Igreja?
Yes. Booking with ICMBio is mandatory and done per vehicle, for a date and a time slot. Then you must pick up your ticket at the Parque Nacional de São Joaquim headquarters in Urubici.
Is there a fee to visit Morro da Igreja and the Pedra Furada?
No. The visit to the viewpoint is free but requires booking. On the trail to the Pedra Furada, the mandatory guide is hired separately.
Can you hike to the Pedra Furada?
Yes, on the Pedra Furada trail, a moderate hike that takes a good part of the day. It can only be done with a guide registered with ICMBio.
Can I bring a dog or a drone to Morro da Igreja?
No. The park does not allow pets or drones in the Morro da Igreja area.
How high is Morro da Igreja?
Morro da Igreja is 1,822 meters above sea level and one of the highest points in Santa Catarina.