trail · São Bento do Sapucaí, SP
Pedra da Ana Chata
The third formation in the Pedra do Baú complex, it is reached by a trail of about 4 km with stretches of ladder rungs fixed into the rock. From the top you see the Pedra do Baú from the opposite angle to Bauzinho, with the Serra da Mantiqueira all around.
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 Pedra da Ana Chata
Pedra da Ana Chata is the third formation in the Pedra do Baú complex, alongside the Baú and Bauzinho, in São Bento do Sapucaí, in the Serra da Mantiqueira. The ensemble is protected by the Monumento Natural Estadual da Pedra do Baú, a São Paulo state protected area.
The climb follows a trail that is largely shaded by forest. Near the top the path narrows, passes through a small cave and has stretches of iron rungs fixed into the rock, with support cables and handrails, a kind of short via ferrata.
From up there the view opens onto a sea of Mantiqueira mountains and valleys. The highlight is the Pedra do Baú seen from the side, from the opposite angle to Bauzinho, which shows off the sheer rock wall.
It is a moderately difficult outing, for those who are fit and don't mind heights. There are stretches close to sheer drops, and the trail is not accessible for wheelchairs or strollers.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
Allow half a day, counting the hike there and back and some time at the top for the view.
Best time
In the drier months, from fall to early spring, when the sky is usually clear and the trail less muddy; early in the morning the light is good and it is cooler.
How to get there
The Pedra do Baú complex is in the countryside of São Bento do Sapucaí (SP). You get there by car on roads leaving town toward Bauzinho, where one of the trails starts, or from the Paiol side. There is no public transportation to the trails.
Tip
Wear hiking boots or shoes with good grip, because the path can be muddy, bring water and snacks and, if you have no experience with iron rungs and heights, hire a local guide.
A look at the place
Pedra da Ana Chata 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 Pedra da Ana Chata
Do I need a guide to climb the Pedra da Ana Chata?
There is no mandatory equipment as on the Baú, but the trail has iron rungs, a cave and stretches near sheer drops. If you lack experience, go with a local guide. Check the registration rules at the entrance.
Is the Ana Chata trail difficult?
It is moderately difficult: it requires fitness and has steep climbs, narrow stretches and rungs fixed into the rock near the top.
How long is the trail?
Allow half a day to get there, enjoy the top and come back; the group's pace and lines at the rung sections make a difference.
Is there an entrance fee?
Access through the Bauzinho park is paid. Check prices and rules with São Bento do Sapucaí Tourism before you go.
What can you see from the top of Ana Chata?
The surrounding Serra da Mantiqueira and the Pedra do Baú seen from the side, from the opposite angle to Bauzinho.