This industrial powerhouse near São Paulo houses Latin America's busiest airport and 1.5 million residents. A vital economic center with significant manufacturing activity.
Guarulhos, the second most populous city in São Paulo state, sits northeast of São Paulo city. You can hike through Atlantic Forest trails in Cantareira State Park, watch aircraft operations at Latin America's second-largest airport, or explore the motorcycle assembly plants that power the local economy. The city's protected watersheds and forested areas create green spaces between its residential neighborhoods and industrial zones.
Getting to Guarulhos
Three modern terminals at São Paulo-Guarulhos International Airport serve as the main gateway to the city. You can take the Airport Bus Service to reach the city center, or use the Line 13-Jade train to connect with São Paulo's metro system. If you're driving, the Rodovia Presidente Dutra highway connects Guarulhos with both São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro.
Weather and Climate
The subtropical climate brings warm summers and mild winters to Guarulhos. Temperatures stay moderate year-round, with afternoon rain showers common during summer months (December to February). The weather pattern supports a rich variety of plants and animals in the local Atlantic Forest fragments, making any season suitable for outdoor exploration.
Parks and Nature
At Cantareira State Park, you'll find marked hiking paths leading to viewpoints overlooking the metropolitan region. The Atlantic Forest sections contain native birds and small mammals, which are most active during early morning hours. The park's education centers explain local water systems and forest ecosystems. Beyond the city boundaries, the Mananciais do Rio Paraíba do Sul Environmental Protection Area maintains critical water sources and creates paths for wildlife movement between forest fragments.
Industry and Manufacturing
The eastern section of Guarulhos contains steel mills, motorcycle assembly lines, and textile production centers. These industries employ more than 100,000 local workers, producing motorcycles, ceramics, and processed foods. The manufacturing zones occupy distinct areas away from the residential and commercial districts in the center and west of the city, creating a clear urban organization pattern.
