Brazil is a beautiful country known for its beaches, colorful culture, and thriving cities. However, it’s often overlooked that Brazil is also home to some of the most spectacular mountains in the world. If you’re a nature lover or an adventure seeker, you won’t want to miss the magnificent mountain ranges that Brazil has to offer. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at some of the most mesmerizing peaks, so put on your hiking boots and let’s get exploring!
This list contains the fourteen tallest mountains in Brazil, but we start this list off with two noteworthy peaks in Rio de Janeiro.
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Sugarloaf Mountain (1,299 ft)
This iconic mountain can be found in the city of Rio de Janeiro and is one of the most recognizable peaks in Brazil. It stands at an impressive 1,299 feet and offers breathtaking views of the city. The area around Sugarloaf Mountain has become a popular spot for tourists and locals alike to enjoy nature without having to go too far from the city. From cable cars to hiking trails, there’s something for everyone here.
Corcovado Mountain (2,329 ft)
Ready to meet Brazil’s very own hunchback? Introducing Corcovado! This magnificent mountain, standing at 710 meters, is nestled in the heart of Rio de Janeiro. But that’s not all – it’s also hiding in the lush Tijuca Forest, a national park that adds even more beauty to this picturesque paradise. And get this: Corcovado is right on the city’s doorstep, making it visible from practically everywhere. Prepare to be wowed by this iconic peak!
Morro Da Igreja (5,978 ft)
Welcome to Morro da Igreja, aka the “Hill of the Church”! This peak in Urubici, Brazil is the highest inhabited point in the state of Santa Catarina. At a breathtaking elevation of 1,822 meters (5,977 feet), it’s also the second-highest point in the state.
But that’s not all. Morro da Igreja holds a chilly record – it’s home to the coldest temperature ever recorded in Brazil, a bone-chilling -17.8 °C (0 °F). No wonder this place has become a hotspot for winter tourism, especially when snowfalls are on the horizon. So pack your warmest clothes and get ready to experience the coolest spot in the country. Morro da Igreja awaits!
Morro da Boa Vista (5,983 ft)
Discover the breathtaking Morro da Boa Vista, the highest peak in Santa Catarina, Brazil. As one of the tallest in the Serra Geral region and the third tallest in Southern Brazil, reaching a staggering 1,823 meters, this majestic mountain offers stunning views and unforgettable experiences. Don’t miss the chance to witness its enchanting winter beauty, as snowfall is a possibility. Prepare for awe-inspiring sights and chilly temperatures on this epic adventure.
Pico Paraná (6,158 ft)
Discover the awe-inspiring Pico Paraná, the highest mountain in the Brazilian state of Paraná. Composed of stunning granite and gneiss, this natural wonder was first explored by the celebrated German adventurer, Reinhard Maack. And did you know? The area surrounding the mountain has a rich history of indigenous population, including the Tupi Guarani. Experience the thrill of conquering Pico Paraná and uncover its captivating past.
Pico do Barbado (6,670 ft)
Get ready to conquer the tallest peak in all of Northeastern Brazil! Pico do Barbado towers above the stunning landscapes of Bahia, reaching a jaw-dropping 2,033 meters above sea level. This epic summit is nestled within the breathtaking Chapada Diamantina National Park, and can be conquered by following a thrilling trail that kicks off at Catolés. Lace up your hiking boots and prepare for an adventure like no other!”
Pico dos Marins (7,942 ft)
Pico dos Marins, situated in Brazil between the cities of Piquete and Cruzeiro in the state of São Paulo, is a mountain peak. It stands around 1 kilometer (0.62 mi) south of the Minas Gerais state border but is entirely within São Paulo territory. Pico dos Marins is part of a short spur in the southwestern section of the Mantiqueira Mountains.
For quite some time, Pico dos Marins was mistakenly regarded as the highest point in the state of São Paulo. This misinformation was prevalent in various official publications and schoolbooks. Subsequently, it was discovered that several peaks in the more eastern Serra Fina sub-range of the Mantiqueira Mountains were significantly taller.
Mount Roraima (8,970 ft)
Welcome to Mount Roraima, the majestic table-top mountain that spans Venezuela, Brazil, and Guyana. With its towering cliffs reaching heights of 400 to 1,000 meters, this unique landscape is a sight to behold. The highest point, located in Venezuela, sits at a breathtaking altitude of 2,810 meters, while another peak at the junction of the three countries in Guyana reaches 2,772 meters. The name “Roraima” comes from the Pemon people, who aptly described its beauty as “blue-green” and “great.” Get ready for an adventure like no other at Mount Roraima!
Pico do Cristal (9,088 ft)
Cristal Peak ranks as the sixth tallest peak in Brazil, towering at an elevation of 2,769.05 meters. It is nestled in the majestic Serra do Caparaó, within the enchanting Caparaó National Park, located in the Alto Caparaó municipality of Minas Gerais state. A measurement on Google Earth reveals that the border of Espírito Santo lies merely 930 meters east of Pico do Cristal. Furthermore, Pico da Bandeira, the country’s third highest mountain and the Southeast Region’s tallest, rests 1,940 meters northeast of Cristal Peak. These two peaks offer a captivating view of each other.
Pico Das Agulhas Negras (9,157 ft)
Hold onto your hiking boots because we’re about to climb the Agulhas Negras Peak! This impressive mountain in Brazil stands tall at a whopping 2,791 meters above sea level, making it one of the highest points in the Brazilian Highlands. Located in the beautiful Itatiaia National Park, right on the border of Rio de Janeiro and Minas Gerais, it boasts the title of the highest point in Rio de Janeiro and the second-highest in the Mantiqueira range.
Reaching the top wasn’t an easy feat. Brave souls like Franklin Massena, André Rebouças, and Horácio de Carvalho attempted the climb in the past, but it was only in 1919 that Carlos Spierling and Osvaldo Leal conquered the summit. Imagine their triumph as they stood on those “Black Needles” and gazed down at the breathtaking views below. Are you ready to make history and reach new heights? Lace up your boots and let’s conquer Agulhas Negras Peak!
Pedra da Mina (9,180 ft)
Hold on to your hiking boots, because we’re about to conquer the fourth-highest mountain in all of Brazil! Welcome to Pedra da Mina, a majestic peak nestled in the Serra Fina section of the mighty Mantiqueira Mountains. These bad boys are some of the most significant mountain ranges in the whole country. Now, get this: Pedra da Mina straddles the border between the states of Minas Gerais and São Paulo. That’s right, you’ll be ticking off two states at once on this epic adventure! It’s time to channel your inner explorer and conquer this magnificent mountain. Let’s go!
Pico Do Calçado (9,347 ft)
Soaring 2,849 meters above sea level, this hidden gem is not only a thrilling adventure, but it also boasts the prestigious title of being the second-highest peak in both Espírito Santo and Minas Gerais.
Located in the picturesque Caparaó National Park, on the border of Ibitirama and Alto Caparaó, Peco do Calçado is nestled in the majestic Serra do Caparaó. Standing less than 1 km away from the famous Pico da Bandeira, it’s the perfect destination for avid hikers and nature enthusiasts.
To reach the summit, embark on an awe-inspiring trail from Casa Queimada, starting on the Minas Gerais side. As you traverse the dividing ridge between Espírito Santo and Minas Gerais, prepare for a heart-racing climb on the rocky terrain. Once you conquer the peak, the adventure doesn’t end – follow the trail onwards to Pico da Bandeira for an unforgettable experience.
Pico do Cruzeiro (9,386 ft)
Welcome to the Pico de Cruzeiro complex, a hidden gem complete with a leisure area, cozy chalets, picturesque trails, and breathtaking waterfalls. This nature haven is teeming with a diverse range of wildlife species, providing the perfect backdrop for your adventures.
Soaring at a majestic height of 1,684 meters, Pico de Cruzeiro offers a vantage point like no other. From here, you can feast your eyes on the awe-inspiring “seas of hills” that adorn the region’s landscape. Look to the north and you’ll spot the enchanting Fervedouro, while the dazzling Pedra da Ararica awaits you in the west. Gaze towards the east and you’ll be treated to a stunning view of Pico do Soares, and to the south lies the charming municipality of Araponga.
Getting to Pico de Cruzeiro is a breeze, with a car-friendly route leading you right to the beginning of the trail. From there, it’s a thrilling three-kilometer trek on foot. Be warned, though, the path may be steep, slippery, and demand your full attention.
Pico da Bandeira (9,482 ft)
Get ready to conquer Pico da Bandeira, the awe-inspiring Flag Peak! This mountain stands proud as the third highest in all of Brazil, straddling the border between Espírito Santo and Minas Gerais states. In fact, it’s the tallest point in both states! But hold on, it wasn’t always in this ranking. Back in the day, Pico da Bandeira claimed the title as Brazil’s highest mountain until Pico da Neblina and Pico 31 de Março stole the spotlight with their impressive heights.
Legend has it that the peak got its name after Emperor Pedro II of Brazil decided to fly a flag at its summit. And the mystery doesn’t end there! Pico da Bandeira holds yet another record – it boasts the greatest topographic isolation of any mountain in Brazil, stretching a staggering 2,344 km (1,457 miles).
But be warned, this incredible peak loves to play hide-and-seek, hiding behind thick clouds most of the time. It wasn’t until 1965, when a brave Brazilian Army expedition scaled its heights for the first time.
Pico 31 De Marco (9,757 ft)
Pico 31 de Março, aka Pico Trinta e Um de Março – Brazil’s second-highest mountain! With its imposing height of 2,974 meters above sea level, it’s a must-see for all adventure seekers. But wait, there’s more! This magnificent peak is also known as Pico Phelps, adding a touch of star power to its already impressive reputation.
Located on the Brazil-Venezuela border, Pico 31 de Março is part of the Neblina massif. In fact, Brazil’s highest summit, Pico da Neblina, is just a stone’s throw away at 687 meters. Talk about neighboring greatness!
While Pico 31 de Março may play second fiddle to Pico da Neblina, it’s no less worthy of exploration. Many expeditions aiming for the main peak make a point to conquer this secondary summit. And the best part? A short trek of about an hour will take you from one peak to the other, thanks to a convenient col that connects them.
Pico da Neblina (9,827 ft)
Get ready to meet Pico da Neblina, the Mist Peak! This bad boy is the tallest peak in all of Brazil, standing at a whopping 2,995.3 meters above sea level. Located on the Brazil-Venezuela border in the Serra da Neblina, this peak is part of the Serra do Imeri and the famous Guiana Highlands. Fun fact: it’s just a hop, skip, and a jump away from Venezuela, with only 687 meters separating the two.
Oh, and did I mention that this peak is a real cloud magnet? Yeah, you won’t see much of anything up there most of the time. It’s like a secret hideout in the heavens.
Back in 1965, some impressive folks from the Brazilian Army decided to conquer this majestic peak and were the first to reach its summit. Talk about a serious adventure! So, if you’re up for a thrill and a literal breath of fresh air, Pico da Neblina is calling your name. Time to write your own mountaineering story!
