rock formation · São Bento do Sapucaí, SP
Pedra do Baú
A gneiss formation in the Serra da Mantiqueira at about 1,950 meters above sea level, protected by the Monumento Natural Estadual da Pedra do Baú. The climb to the top is by a via ferrata with hundreds of iron rungs set into the vertical rock.
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 do Baú
The Pedra do Baú is a large granite block in the Serra da Mantiqueira, in the rural Paiol Grande area of São Bento do Sapucaí, near the border with Campos do Jordão. It forms a group with two neighboring rocks, Bauzinho and Ana Chata, and can be seen from afar at many points in the region.
The ensemble is protected by the Monumento Natural Estadual da Pedra do Baú, created in 2010 and managed by the Fundação Florestal (state forestry foundation) in partnership with the town government. The area holds patches of forest, springs and the mountain scenery that made the rock a symbol of the town.
The climb to the top of the Baú is by via ferrata: hundreds of iron rungs set into the rock, on vertical and exposed stretches. It requires good fitness, no fear of heights and safety equipment. The Ana Chata has a long trail with via ferrata sections. The spot also attracts rock climbers.
If you don't want to tackle the wall, the Bauzinho trail is short and easy, suitable for families, and leads to the viewpoint with the best-known view of the Pedra do Baú. The passages at the top get narrow and can cause vertigo, so only go as far as you feel comfortable.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
The Bauzinho trail is short and quick to do, with photo stops; the climb to the top of the Baú by via ferrata takes up a good part of the day.
Best time
In the drier months of fall and winter, in the morning, when the sky is usually clear and the rock dry; on rainy days the via ferrata becomes dangerous.
How to get there
The protected area is in the Paiol Grande neighborhood, in the countryside of São Bento do Sapucaí. You get there by car on a narrow, winding paved road from downtown; coming from Campos do Jordão, you take some dirt road stretches. Besides the main entrance of the protected area, there is access through private parking lots.
Tip
To climb the Baú or the Ana Chata, book your visit in advance through the official channel and go with a guide and safety equipment; Bauzinho requires no booking.
Official website
A look at the place
Pedra do Baú 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 do Baú
Is there an entrance fee at the Pedra do Baú?
Yes, entry through the protected area's gate is paid, and access via private areas charges for parking. Check prices on the official channel.
Do I need to book the Pedra do Baú climb?
Yes. Climbing the Baú and the Ana Chata requires advance booking through the protected area's official channel. The Bauzinho trail requires no booking.
Do I need a guide to climb the Pedra do Baú?
The via ferrata requires safety equipment, and it is recommended to climb with an adventure tourism guide, who provides the equipment. Check the current rules when you book.
Is the Bauzinho trail difficult?
No. It is short and easy, good for families, and leads to the viewpoint with the best view of the Pedra do Baú. At the top there are narrow passages that can cause vertigo.
How long does it take to climb the Pedra do Baú?
The climb to the top by via ferrata, plus the return, takes a few hours and fills a good part of the day. The Bauzinho trail, by contrast, is short and quick.