viewpoint · São Bento do Sapucaí, SP
Bauzinho
At about 1,760 meters above sea level, it is the most accessible formation in the complex, reached by a short, easy trail. From the top you get a head-on view of the Pedra do Baú and the valley.
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 Bauzinho
Bauzinho is the smallest and easiest to visit of the three rock formations in the Pedra do Baú complex, alongside the Pedra do Baú itself and the Pedra da Ana Chata. It is in the Serra da Mantiqueira, in the municipality of São Bento do Sapucaí, within the Monumento Natural Estadual da Pedra do Baú, a protected area created by the São Paulo state government in 2010.
The big draw is the view. From the top of the rock, the Pedra do Baú appears head-on and very close, with its vertical walls, and on the other side the valley opens up, with small farms, forests and the succession of Mantiqueira ridges stretching to the horizon.
The climb is via a short trail, partly through the forest, that ends on the rock. Along the way is the Mirante do Caramuru, with an observation deck and a hang-gliding ramp, where paragliders take off on days with good wind.
It is the best outing for families, children and anyone without hiking experience. Unlike the Ana Chata and the Pedra do Baú via ferrata, Bauzinho requires no booking or equipment. At the top there are stretches of exposed rock and unprotected edges, so be careful, especially with children.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
Allow one to two hours for the trail, time at the top and a stop at the Mirante do Caramuru.
Best time
In the drier months, from fall to the end of winter, the sky is usually clearer and the view reaches farther; early morning or late afternoon light highlights the walls of the Pedra do Baú.
How to get there
Bauzinho is in the countryside of São Bento do Sapucaí (SP), at the entrance to the Monumento Natural Estadual da Pedra do Baú. You get there by car from downtown São Bento do Sapucaí or from Campos do Jordão, on mountain roads with a final dirt stretch. From the entrance, continue on foot (or by car to the nearest parking lot, when allowed) to the trailhead.
Tip
Bring photo ID, required at the entrance to the protected area, plus water, a jacket and shoes with good grip. On rainy days the dirt road and the rock get slippery.
Official website
A look at the place
Bauzinho 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 Bauzinho
Is there an entrance fee at Bauzinho?
Yes. An entrance fee is charged at the gate of the Monumento Natural Estadual da Pedra do Baú. Check prices and hours on the protected area's official website.
Do I need to book a visit to Bauzinho?
No. Advance booking is only required for the Pedra da Ana Chata and the Pedra do Baú via ferrata. For Bauzinho, just show up at the gate with photo ID.
Is the Bauzinho trail difficult?
No. It is the shortest and easiest trail in the Pedra do Baú complex, done by children and older visitors. At the top there is exposed rock and unprotected edges, so be careful.
Do I need a guide to climb Bauzinho?
No. The Bauzinho trail can be done on your own, without a guide or climbing equipment.
Can you see the Pedra do Baú from Bauzinho?
Yes. From the top of Bauzinho the Pedra do Baú appears head-on and very close, and the view opens onto the valley and the Serra da Mantiqueira.