district · Camanducaia, MG
Distrito de Monte Verde
A mountain village about 1,550 meters above sea level, founded in 1950 by Latvian immigrant Verner Grinberg; the name translates the family surname. It has European-style houses, a cold climate and trails to rocks and viewpoints.
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 Distrito de Monte Verde
Monte Verde is a district of Camanducaia, in southern Minas Gerais, high in the Serra da Mantiqueira. It is a mountain village surrounded by forest and araucaria pines, popular above all with people looking for cold weather close to São Paulo.
Its history begins with Latvian immigrant Verner Grinberg, who arrived in the region in 1938 looking for a place that reminded him of his homeland, with cold weather and green scenery. He bought a farm in the mountains, and the village was officially founded on November 29, 1950. The name translates the family surname.
Tourist life revolves around Avenida Monte Verde, the main street, with shops, cafés, chocolate shops and European restaurants. The little town center is small and easy to explore on foot. The European-style houses and chalets add to the mountain-village feel.
Around the village are trails leading to rocks and viewpoints, such as the Pedra Redonda, the Chapéu do Bispo and the Platô, with sweeping views of the Mantiqueira. There are also adventure activities and parks nearby.
It is cool all year, and winter nights can drop below freezing. At that time of year the village is packed, especially on weekends and holidays.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
A weekend is enough to stroll around the little town center and do one or two trails; with three or four days you can see the main trails and outings at a relaxed pace.
Best time
Winter is the most popular season, for the intense cold and the festival lineup, but it is also the most crowded; fall and late winter usually have less rain than summer, when rain is concentrated between September and March.
How to get there
Monte Verde is in the municipality of Camanducaia, in southern Minas Gerais, near the border with São Paulo. By car, the most common route is the Rodovia Fernão Dias (BR-381), exiting for Camanducaia and, from there, taking the access road that climbs the mountains to the village.
Tip
If you go in winter, book your stay in advance and try to arrive early on Friday: the main avenue and the access road get congested on high-season weekends.
Official website
A look at the place
Distrito de Monte Verde 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 Distrito de Monte Verde
Is Monte Verde a town?
No. Monte Verde is a district of the municipality of Camanducaia, in southern Minas Gerais.
Can you explore the center on foot?
Yes. The little town center is small, and most of the shops, cafés and restaurants are along Avenida Monte Verde.
Is it cold even in summer?
Yes, the climate is cool all year, with chilly nights even in summer. In winter temperatures can drop below freezing.
When is the village most crowded?
In winter, especially on weekends and holidays. Outside that season visits are usually quieter.
What trails can you do there?
The best known are Pedra Redonda, Chapéu do Bispo and Platô. Some have an entrance fee and require buying in advance; check the rules for each one.