Flying the Pinheirinho: Super Zipline - Brotas Delivers Brazil’s Boldest Glide
Two soaring lines, a forest trail, and a waterfall—Brotas’ signature flight blends speed with the soul of São Paulo’s interior.
The platform leans into the morning like a diving board above a green sea. Harness clipped, helmet snug, you look across the Pinheirinho River Valley—forest in a thousand shades, thermals rising like invisible escalators—and feel the line hum with a quiet, persuasive note. The staff counts you down in Portuguese and smiles—um, dois, três—and the cable takes over. The forest drops away. Wind presses a hand to your chest. The valley opens its arms and dares you further. You fly.
Trail Wisdom
Aim for a morning launch
Winds are calmer and summer storms less likely before midday, making for smoother rides and better visibility.
Wear closed-toe shoes with grip
Roots and slick clay can surprise on the 2 km forest trail; trail runners or sturdy sneakers work best.
Secure sunglasses and leave loose items
Use a retainer strap and avoid hats or phones in hand—strong airstreams and long spans love to claim souvenirs.
Hydrate and layer smart
Carry water and bring a light jacket in winter; the platform breeze at 150 m can feel cooler than expected.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Mirante do Patrimônio viewpoint for wide valley panoramas
- •Old railroad bridge over the Jacaré-Pepira for late-afternoon photos
Wildlife
Toucans, Marmosets
Conservation Note
Stick to marked trails and platforms to protect native Cerrado and Atlantic Forest species; pack out all trash and respect wildlife viewing distances.
Brotas prospered during the 19th-century coffee boom and reinvented itself in the 1990s as São Paulo’s adventure capital with rafting on the Jacaré-Pepira.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Wildflower sightings, Balanced temps
Challenges: Occasional showers, Variable winds
September–November brings mild weather and fresh greenery. Expect some rain, but generally excellent zipline conditions.
summer
Best for: Long daylight, Lush forest views
Challenges: Afternoon thunderstorms, High heat and humidity
December–February is hot and vibrant; plan morning flights and hydrate. Trail and waterfall access may be canceled in heavy rain.
fall
Best for: Stable weather, Clear air after rains
Challenges: Shorter daylight, Cooler evenings
March–May often balances warmth with fewer storms, offering consistent zipline runs and comfortable hiking conditions.
winter
Best for: Dry conditions, Crisp visibility
Challenges: Chilly mornings on platforms, Stronger winds on some days
June–August is the dry season in São Paulo’s interior—great for clear views and reliable operations with light layers.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Closed-toe trail shoesEssential
Good traction keeps you steady on the forest approach and protects your toes on roots and rocks.
Lightweight wind layer
At 150 meters up, the breeze can run cool—especially in the dry winter months.
Sunscreen and sunglasses with retainerEssential
Exposure is high on the platforms and in flight; secure eyewear prevents drops at speed.
Action camera with chest or wrist mount
Hands-free mounts capture stable footage without risking a phone or camera on the line.
Common Questions
How long are the zipline runs?
The first line is approximately 1.1 km and the second is around 800 m, providing two distinct flights across the Pinheirinho Valley.
What happens if it rains?
Operations continue in light rain, but the forest trail and waterfall visit may be canceled for safety during wet conditions or storms.
Is there a weight or age limit?
Yes—weight and age limits apply for safety and may vary with wind and weather. Confirm current requirements at booking.
What should I wear?
Closed-toe shoes with grip, comfortable outdoor clothing, and a light layer in winter. Avoid loose items that can blow away.
Can I bring my phone or camera on the line?
Only if it’s securely mounted. Handheld devices are not recommended due to wind and the risk of dropping items into the forest.
Do I need prior experience?
No. Staff provide a thorough safety briefing and assist with all equipment. Basic comfort with heights is helpful.
What to Pack
Closed-toe trail shoes for grip on the forest path; lightweight windbreaker for cool platform breezes; water bottle to stay hydrated in Brazil’s summer heat; sunglasses with retainer to protect eyes at speed without losing them.
Did You Know
The Jacaré-Pepira River near Brotas is one of the cleanest rivers in São Paulo state and is renowned for year-round rafting due to its free-flowing, undammed course.
Quick Travel Tips
Book a morning slot to avoid summer storms and queues; Download offline maps—cell service fades in the valleys; Bring cash for snacks or souvenirs at rural outposts; Confirm trail and waterfall access on rainy days—they may be suspended for safety.
Local Flavor
After your flight, refuel at Brotas Bar, a beloved rafting-themed spot known for hearty plates and cold chopp. Beer lovers should stop by Brotas Beer, the town’s microbrewery, for a tasting flight. Sweet tooth? Local markets sell doce de leite and guava paste sourced from nearby farms—perfect road snacks for the drive back to town.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest major airport: VCP (Campinas) ~140 km; GRU (São Paulo) ~230 km. Meet at Território Selvagem Canoar’s base near Brotas; plan 20–30 minutes’ drive from town center. Cell service can be spotty at the site. No park permits required; follow operator requirements for footwear, age, and weight limits.
Sustainability Note
This valley spans sensitive Cerrado–Atlantic Forest habitat. Stay on signed trails, avoid single-use plastics, and keep voices low around wildlife. If the trail or waterfall is closed due to rain, consider it a win for erosion control and river health.
Continue Reading
Above the Gorge: Ziplining Glerárgil Through Akureyri’s Hidden River Canyon
Clip in over a river that cleaves a town: ziplining the Glerárgil canyon in Akureyri is an urban alpine rush—short, scenic, and rooted in place. Read on for why it’s one of Iceland’s most accessible aerial adventures and how to plan your visit.
Akureyri, Northeast
One Wild Day in the Taurus: Rafting and Ziplines Through Tazı Canyon
Spend a day in the Taurus Mountains rafting 12 km through a limestone gorge and flying high over the same walls by zipline. It’s a compact, beginner-friendly adventure that pairs river adrenaline with aerial perspective.
Side, Antalya Province