Campos do Jordão

Campos do Jordão, at 1,628 meters above sea level in São Paulo state, is Brazil's highest city. This mountain town has a cool climate and many buildings with European-inspired architecture. You can walk through Vila Capivari's streets, ride a cable car to Morro do Elefante, or hike in Campos do Jordão State Park. Every winter, the town hosts a Festival that brings classical music performances to the Mantiqueira Mountains.

Location and Climate of Campos do Jordão

Campos do Jordão sits in the Mantiqueira Mountains of southeastern Brazil, 180 km from São Paulo city. Due to its high elevation, the town has a subtropical highland climate with cool temperatures year-round. Winter months (June to August) are particularly cold, with nighttime temperatures often dropping to 5°C (41°F). Many visitors come here to escape the heat of Brazil's coastal cities, especially during summer.

Exploring Vila Capivari in Campos do Jordão

Vila Capivari is the central area of Campos do Jordão. Here you'll find most of the town's shops, restaurants, and bars. Many buildings in this area have Germanic-style architecture, giving it a distinct look. You can shop for cold-weather clothing and local chocolates, or eat at restaurants serving fondue and other hearty dishes suited to the cool climate.

Natural Areas and Outdoor Activities in Campos do Jordão

Campos do Jordão State Park, also known as Horto Florestal, covers over 8,000 hectares and has four hiking trails totaling 12 kilometers. You can rent bicycles or eat at one of the park's food trucks after your hike. Amantikir Park is another option, with European-inspired gardens containing over 700 plant species across 60,000 square meters.

Cultural Sites in Campos do Jordão

At the Felícia Leirner Museum, you can see 85 sculptures by the Polish-born artist in an outdoor setting. The museum grounds include the Claudio Santoro Auditorium, which hosts the annual Winter Festival of classical music. The Boa Vista Palace, a former governor's winter residence, is now a museum with 105 rooms containing furniture, art, and decorative objects that give insight into Brazil's political and cultural history.

Transportation in Campos do Jordão

You can drive to Campos do Jordão from São Paulo via the Rodovia Floriano Rodrigues Pinheiro. For a scenic option, take the historic train from Pindamonhangaba. In town, the Trenzinho da Montanha gives tours of the area, including a stop at the Ducha de Prata waterfalls. For views of the surrounding mountains, ride the cable car from Capivari Park to Morro do Elefante.

Dining in Campos do Jordão

Campos do Jordão's food reflects European influences and the cool climate. At Baden-Baden Chopperia, you can eat German specialties and drink craft beers. For Italian food in a romantic setting, try Pontremoli Restaurant. Santa Collina Restaurant & Fondue serves both savory and sweet varieties of this Alpine dish.

Places to Stay in Campos do Jordão

Là-Bas Suites de Montagne has cozy, apartment-style rooms near the town center. Nacional Inn Campos do Jordão is more like a resort, with an indoor heated pool and a large breakfast buffet. For something different, Castelo Nacional Inn has castle-themed rooms with modern amenities.