Things To Do
in Campos do Jordão
Campos do Jordão is a mountain town in the Serra da Mantiqueira known for its Alpine-inspired architecture and cool climate. Nestled among pine forests at about 1,600 meters above sea level, the town exudes a European vibe with cobblestone streets and boutique shops. It comes alive in winter with fondue dinners, classical music, and stunning viewpoints, while summers bring floral displays and fresh mountain air.
This combination of nature, culture, and gastronomy makes Campos do Jordão a unique escape from the lowlands.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your adventure in Campos do Jordão with a visit to the charming Swiss-style architecture of the village. Stroll through the cobblestone streets, enjoying the fresh mountain air and the picturesque scenery. Don’t forget to stop by local shops for souvenirs and artisanal goods.
After lunch at a cozy café, take a guided tour of the Palácio Boa Vista, the winter residence of the state government. Marvel at the stunning collection of art and the beautiful gardens that surround the palace. Spend the late afternoon relaxing in the tranquil setting of the nearby Parque das Florestas.
As dusk settles, experience the vibrant nightlife by dining at a local fondue restaurant, savoring delicious cheese and chocolate fondues. Listen to live music performances that capture the essence of the local culture. Enjoy a leisurely walk under the starlit sky before heading back to your accommodation.
Kick off your day with an invigorating hike through the beautiful trails of Horto Florestal Park. Immerse yourself in nature while spotting rare flora and fauna along the paths. Remember to pack your camera for captivating views and natural scenery.
After a morning of exploration, have a packed lunch surrounded by the stunning landscapes of the park. Then, take part in adventurous activities such as zip-lining or tree climbing to get an adrenaline rush. The park's peaceful surroundings are the perfect place to unwind afterward.
Return to the village to enjoy a delicious dinner at one of the renowned local restaurants. Consider trying some classic Brazilian dishes infused with regional flavors. Cap off the day with a stroll through the artsy streets, perhaps stopping by a bar for a cocktail.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🏨Hotel night (mid-range) | $60-120 |
| 🚗Local taxi ride | $4-10 |
| ☕Coffee and pastry at cafe | $3-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful mountain scenery and a European-influenced atmosphere
- Excellent dining options, especially fondue and trout dishes
- Wide range of outdoor activities and gardens for all ages
- Walkable town center with charming architecture and markets
- Varying levels of English spoken outside tourist areas
- Hilly terrain can be tiring for long walks
- Winter crowds can be heavy and prices higher
- Public transportation options are limited outside Capivari
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado(a)" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "A conta, por favor" - The check, please
- "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?
- "Eu não falo Português muito bem" - I don't speak Portuguese very well
Places to Visit in Campos do Jordão
Visit one of these nice places.
A classic overlook with expansive views over Capivari and the valley, especially beautiful at sunrise or sunset.
A set of small cascades with wooden walkways, ideal for nature photography and reflective water shots.
An expansive garden complex with themed sections and several viewpoints for landscape photography.
Colorful façades, European-influenced architecture, and street scenes perfect for architectural and street photography.
Forest trails and scenic wooden bridges offering peaceful nature photography within a leisure setting.
Food in Campos do Jordão
Campos do Jordão Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
An iconic winter staple served with bread, potatoes, and pickles at many Capivari restaurants.
Must-Try!
Fresh trout from local streams, typically grilled and served with potatoes and greens.
Roasted pine nuts from the local pine forests, enjoyed as a warm snack or snack accompaniment.
Creamy polenta served as a hearty side to meat or sausage dishes.
Local cheeses presented as part of cheese boards or in fondue accompaniments.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market offering cheeses, jams, wines, and artisanal products from the Mantiqueira region.
Seasonal street stalls near Capivari with churros, crepes, warm drinks, and souvenirs.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'Olá' or 'Bom dia/Boa tarde.' A handshake is common in formal settings; use polite forms when addressing older or more formal individuals.
Portuguese is spoken; attempting a few phrases in Portuguese is appreciated. English is understood in larger establishments and tourist areas, but not everywhere.
Casual but neat attire is standard in most venues; evenings can be cooler, so bring layers. Keep conversations relaxed and respectful in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Campos do Jordão
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, a 5–10% service tip is common if service is not included in the bill; you can round up the total for taxis or informal service. For hotel staff and tour guides, a small tip is appreciated if the service was helpful.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, as are cash payments in BRL. Pix and other mobile payment apps are increasingly common for smaller purchases and vendor stalls.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Pleasant daytime temperatures with cooler nights; occasional rain showers. Great for outdoor walks and garden visits, though it can still feel cool in the evenings.
Milder days and crisp nights with beautiful fall colors; ideal for scenic drives and photography around the forests.
Cold and often misty with clear, crisp mornings. Daytime highs typically around 10–18°C (50–64°F); fondue and hearty meals are especially popular. Bring warm layers.
Mild temperatures and blooming flowers; comfortable for hiking and outdoor exploration.
Campos do Jordão at Night
Hiking in Campos do Jordão
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails within the protected park offering scenic climbs and easy to moderate routes.
Mountain trails and viewpoints in the Mantiqueira region, suitable for more experienced hikers.
Forest loops and scenic paths near Tarundu offering a mix of easy to moderate hikes with park facilities.
Airports
How to reach Campos do Jordão by plane.
Regional airport with domestic flights; convenient for reaching Campos do Jordão by car or taxi.
Major international airport about a 2.5–3.5 hour drive to Campos do Jordão, depending on traffic and weather.
Large international hub with connections; drive or bus transfer to Campos do Jordão.
City airport with domestic flights; access to Campos do Jordão via road or private transfer.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families visit for a relaxed, safe environment with kid-friendly activities around Capivari and Amantikir.
Longstanding residents of the Mantiqueira region along with seasonal visitors who return yearly for festivals and winter getaways.
Visitors drawn by the architecture, cuisine, and nature; peak seasons are winter weekends and holiday periods.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A favorite pastime; you’ll see locals and visitors playing in parks and informal leagues.
Popular due to the surrounding Mantiqueira mountains and forested areas.
Gentle to challenging routes around the hills and forest roads.
Available through local equestrian tour operators and ranches.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Campos do Jordão.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common in Campos do Jordão. Look for veggie-focused fondue, grilled vegetables, salads, polenta, queijo, and legumes; when in doubt, ask for dishes prepared without meat or fish and request adjustments.