Campos do Jordão

Perched high in the Serra da Mantiqueira at 1,600 metres, Campos do Jordão feels like a slice of alpine Europe transplanted into Brazil. Known as the 'Switzerland of Brazil', this mountain retreat charms with its Bavarian-style architecture, crisp mountain air, and a vibrant cultural scene centred around winter festivals. A favourite weekend escape for paulistanos, it’s a place to cosy up by a fireplace, sip locally produced chocolate, and explore lush forests and waterfalls.

Highlights & What to See

• Amantikir Park – a beautifully landscaped garden with over 700 species of plants, inspired by the world’s great gardens; the Japanese and French sections are particularly stunning.
• Vila Capivari – the tourist hub, a pedestrian-only street lined with half-timbered houses, fondue restaurants, and craft chocolate shops. Don’t miss the Sunday classical music concerts at the Palácio da Boa Vista.
• Horto Florestal – a state park offering easy trails through Atlantic rainforest, picnic spots, and the chance to spot toucans and howler monkeys.
• Ducha de Prata – a natural waterfall and pool where you can take a refreshing dip; the surrounding park has a zip line and treetop walk.
• Pico do Itapeva – a short drive from town, this viewpoint offers panoramic vistas of the valley and, on clear days, the Mantiqueira range.

Suggested Time to Spend

Two full days is ideal to soak up the atmosphere: spend one day exploring Vila Capivari and the Palácio, and another for outdoor activities like hiking or visiting Amantikir Park. If you have a third day, venture to Horto Florestal or Pico do Itapeva. The town is compact, so a car isn’t essential for the main sights, but it helps for reaching the parks and waterfalls.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• São Paulo – the state capital is a 2.5-hour drive; combine with a few days of city culture and dining.
• Monte Verde – a smaller, quieter mountain village in Minas Gerais, about 1.5 hours north, with excellent hiking and a more rustic feel.
• Gonçalves – a charming town known for its organic farms and waterfalls, around 1 hour east.
• Santo Antônio do Pinhal – a 45-minute drive, famous for its German-influenced architecture and thermal springs.
• Aparecida – Brazil’s largest pilgrimage site, home to the Basilica of Our Lady of Aparecida, about 1.5 hours south.

Please check official sources for current details.