Background

Pedra do Cortiço: A Hiker's Gem in Petrópolis

Hike Pedra do Cortiço for panoramic views of Petrópolis and beyond – a perfect trek for beginners and sunset seekers!

4.8

Pedra do Cortiço, or Cortiço Rock, is a popular hiking destination near Petrópolis, Brazil, offering stunning panoramic views. The relatively short and easy trail makes it accessible to beginner hikers, rewarding them with vistas of Petrópolis, the surrounding mountains, and even Rio de Janeiro's Guanabara Bay on clear days.

A brief summary to Pedra do Cortiço

  • Petrópolis, São Sebastiao, State of Rio de Janeiro, BR
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • The trail entrance can be easily missed as it starts through a patch of tall grass on Rua Indaiá; look carefully or ask locals for directions.
  • Bring water and sun protection, as parts of the trail are exposed.
  • Consider hiking during the week to avoid weekend crowds.
  • Check the weather forecast before you go; the views are best on a clear day.
  • While generally safe, hiking with a friend or in a group is always recommended.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From the center of Petrópolis, take a local bus towards São Sebastião. Several bus lines serve the neighborhood, including Capitão Paladini, Vital Brasil, and Olga Castrioto. The bus fare is approximately R$5.30. Get off near the São Sebastião Parish on Rua Indaiá. From there, walk a short distance on Rua Indaiá until you find the trailhead on your left.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From downtown Petrópolis, a taxi or ride-share to the trailhead of Pedra do Cortiço in São Sebastião will cost approximately R$15-R$25, depending on traffic. The ride is about 5 km and should take around 15-20 minutes. Ask the driver to drop you off near the São Sebastião Parish on Rua Indaiá , from where you can easily walk to the trailhead.

  • Walking

    From the Alto da Serra neighborhood, you can walk to the Pedra do Cortiço trailhead. Head towards the São Sebastião Parish. The walk is approximately 2km and should take around 30-40 minutes. Once you reach the church, continue onto Rua Indaiá where you will find the trail entrance to your left.

Unlock the Best of Pedra do Cortiço

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Pedra do Cortiço

Pedra do Cortiço is a frequently visited peak in Petrópolis, rising to an altitude of 1,120 meters. The trail, located in the São Sebastião neighborhood, is just over 1 km long, making it a short but moderately inclined hike. It typically takes about 45 minutes to an hour to ascend. The trailhead is near the São Sebastião Parish. While the trail is generally well-defined, it can be a bit confusing in places, so keeping an eye on the summit as a guide is advisable. The path leads through a mix of dense forest and open areas, so sun protection is recommended. From the summit, hikers are treated to a 360-degree view, encompassing the city of Petrópolis, the Serra dos Órgãos National Park, Guanabara Bay, and even the Christ the Redeemer statue and Sugarloaf Mountain in Rio de Janeiro on clear days. Other visible landmarks include the Castelinho (Morro do Meu Castelo), the Antennas do Morin, Agulha do Itacolomi, and Cabeça de Negro. Historically, the Caminho Novo do Ouro (New Gold Trail) passed along the southeastern face of Pedra do Cortiço, used by troops and the Imperial Family traveling between Porto da Estrela and Alto da Serra. The first railway in South America, the Estrada de Ferro Mauá, also traversed the valley near the mountain.

Popular Experiences near Pedra do Cortiço

Popular Hotels near Pedra do Cortiço

Select Currency