Pedra do Altar: A Summit Experience in Itatiaia National Park
Hike to Pedra do Altar in Itatiaia National Park for panoramic views from one of Brazil's highest accessible peaks.
Pedra do Altar, or Altar Rock, is one of Brazil's highest peaks, offering panoramic views of Itatiaia National Park. A moderately challenging hike leads to its summit, rewarding visitors with stunning vistas of surrounding mountains and unique rock formations.
A brief summary to Pedra do Altar
- Estrada do Parque Nacional do Itatiaia, Itatiaia, Engenheiro Passos, State of Rio de Janeiro, 27580-000, BR
- Visit website
Local tips
- The park's upper section, where Pedra do Altar is located, has restricted hours. Ensure you arrive between 7:00 am and 2:00 pm, with a 5:00 pm departure deadline.
- Bring cash for park entrance and other potential expenses, as card payments may not be accepted.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes and carry plenty of water, as the trail can be rocky and demanding.
- Check the weather forecast before you go, as conditions in the mountains can change rapidly.
- Consider hiring an authorized guide to enhance your safety and experience, especially if you are not an experienced hiker.
Getting There
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Car
From Itatiaia, take the BR-116 (Presidente Dutra Highway) to exit 318. Continue onto BR-485 for 5.5 km to the park entrance. From Engenheiro Passos, take exit 330A from BR-116, then BR-354 for 26 km to Garganta do Registro. Follow the dirt road (Rodovia das Flores) for 14 km to Posto Marcão, which provides access to the upper part of the park. Expect to pay an entrance fee to the park, approximately R$18 per person per day. Parking is available, with fees depending on the vehicle type.
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Public Transport
Take a bus from major cities like Rio de Janeiro or São Paulo to Itatiaia. From Itatiaia, take a local bus or taxi to the park entrance. Some buses may drop you closer to the park entrance. A taxi from Itatiaia to the park entrance (Estrada do Parque Nacional, Km 8.5) costs approximately R$30. Remember that reaching Pedra do Altar requires access to the upper part of the park, so factor in additional travel time from the park entrance to Posto Marcão.
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