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Pico das Agulhas Negras: A Climber's Paradise

Ascend to Rio de Janeiro's highest point in Itatiaia National Park for breathtaking views and challenging hikes amidst unique rock formations.

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Pico das Agulhas Negras, the 'Black Needles Peak,' is the highest point in Rio de Janeiro state, Brazil, within Itatiaia National Park. Reaching 2,791 meters (9,157 ft), it's a granite summit offering challenging hikes and panoramic views, attracting mountaineers and nature lovers.

A brief summary to Pico das Agulhas Negras

  • Monday 7 am-2 pm
  • Tuesday 7 am-2 pm
  • Wednesday 7 am-2 pm
  • Thursday 7 am-2 pm
  • Friday 7 am-2 pm
  • Saturday 7 am-2 pm
  • Sunday 7 am-2 pm

Local tips

  • Start your hike early to avoid crowds and take advantage of the cooler morning temperatures.
  • Check the weather forecast before you go, as conditions in the mountains can change rapidly.
  • Wear sturdy hiking boots and bring plenty of water and snacks for the trek.
  • Consider hiring a local guide for a safer and more informative hiking experience.
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Getting There

  • Car

    To reach Pico das Agulhas Negras by car, start from the main entrance of Itatiaia National Park on Estr. Parque Nacional in Engenheiro Passos. Follow the signs to the park's visitor center. Continue towards the main parking area at the base of the Pico das Agulhas Negras trailhead. Note that there is an entrance fee to access the park, typically around R$ 25 per person. Parking is available for various vehicle types.

  • Public Transport

    To reach Itatiaia National Park via 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. A taxi from Itatiaia to the park entrance will cost approximately R$ 30. Alternatively, some bus services may drop you off closer to the park entrance.

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Discover more about Pico das Agulhas Negras

Pico das Agulhas Negras, or 'Black Needles Peak', is a majestic mountain located in Itatiaia National Park, Brazil's oldest national park. Inaugurated in 1937, the park straddles the border between Rio de Janeiro and Minas Gerais states, showcasing a dramatic landscape of mountains and rocky formations. The peak itself, reaching 2,791 meters (9,157 feet), is the highest point in the state of Rio de Janeiro and the fifth highest in Brazil. For years, Pico das Agulhas Negras was thought to be the highest mountain in Brazil. Today, it is known for its unique rock formations featuring long, deep, dark streaks that give the mountain its distinctive name. The peak is a popular destination for hiking and climbing, with trails offering varying levels of difficulty. The most popular route to the summit is a 6-kilometer hike that is moderately difficult to the base, with a final section that requires scrambling and, in some parts, the use of ropes. The Itatiaia National Park, where the peak is located, is open year-round, but the best time to visit Pico das Agulhas Negras is during the dry winter months (May to September). During this time, there is less chance of rain and storms, and visibility is optimal. From the summit, hikers can enjoy panoramic views of the Paraíba Valley, the Serra da Mantiqueira, and neighboring peaks. The park is also home to diverse flora and fauna, including many species of birds and unique alpine vegetation.

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