Leap Into the Green: Zipline Mega Tour in Brotas
High-speed flight, forest trails, and a waterfall cooldown—Brotas packs a full adventure into one efficient outing.
Morning slides over the Jacaré-Pepira valley the way a river tests its banks—slow, deliberate, assured. The hills around Brotas breathe out a cool breeze as you step into a clearing. Harness buckled. Helmet snug. The cable hums a low note overhead. Far below, the forest keeps its own quiet counsel, a patchwork of Atlantic Forest remnants and cerrado scrub that refuses to be tamed. When the gate swings open, the landscape dares you forward. At 120 meters high, one of Brazil’s tallest ziplines doesn’t ask for poetry; it asks for commitment.
Trail Wisdom
Commit to the launch
Listen to the guide’s countdown, keep your body aligned, and look toward the horizon to steady your balance.
Footwear matters
Closed-toe shoes with good tread are important for the 2 km forest trail and any slick rock near the waterfall.
Weather rules the day
Summer storms can pause ziplines and close the trail to Cachoeira Cristal; check forecasts and be flexible.
Go light, go secure
Bring water, repellent, and an action camera with a tether—anything loose risks a fast trip to the forest floor.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Parque dos Saltos footbridges for an easy stroll along the Jacaré-Pepira rapids in town
- •Areia que Canta spring, a clear, musical sand pool on a nearby farm property
Wildlife
Toucans, Capuchin monkeys
Conservation Note
Stay on designated paths and respect storm closures—erosion control and clean water are central to Brotas’ eco-tourism model. Pack out all trash and avoid disturbing shoreline vegetation.
Brotas pivoted from agriculture to adventure tourism in the 1990s, protecting the Jacaré-Pepira River and forest remnants to support rafting and zipline growth.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Wildflowers and fresh greens, Mild temperatures
Challenges: Unpredictable showers, Mosquito activity at dusk
Spring brings soft color and comfortable temps, great for first-time zipliners and shaded trail walks.
summer
Best for: Lush scenery, Full rivers and waterfall flow
Challenges: Afternoon thunderstorms, Heat and humidity
Expect vibrant green hills and powerful cascades, but build in flexibility for weather holds and hydrate well.
fall
Best for: Stable weather, Warm days, cooler nights
Challenges: Occasional windy fronts, Shortening daylight
Autumn often delivers clear views and steady operations with fewer crowds on weekdays.
winter
Best for: Crisp air and long views, Lower rain probability
Challenges: Chilly mornings, Cooler water at the falls
Dry, cool conditions make winter ideal for zipline visibility and comfortable hiking.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Closed-toe trail shoesEssential
Provides grip on the forest trail and stability on platforms.
Lightweight long-sleeve layer
Shields from sun and insects without overheating during warm months.
Packable rain shell
Useful for sudden showers that are common in the rainy season.
Action camera with helmet mount and tether
Captures flight footage securely—no need to grip a device while riding.
Common Questions
How long is the experience?
Plan for about four hours including briefing, zipline runs, the forest trail, and the visit to Cachoeira Cristal when conditions allow.
What happens if it rains?
Operations may pause for lightning, high winds, or heavy rain. The forest trail and waterfall visit can be canceled during or after storms for safety and to prevent erosion.
Is this suitable for beginners or people afraid of heights?
Yes—guides provide clear instruction and safety gear. You should be comfortable with heights and stepping off a platform; the trail portion is moderate.
What should I wear?
Wear athletic clothing and closed-toe shoes with traction. Bring a light layer, sun protection, and insect repellent.
Can I bring a phone or camera on the zipline?
Only if it’s secured with a mount and tether. Loose items are not allowed on the line for safety reasons.
Is transportation included and where do we meet?
Most visitors self-drive to the operator’s base near Brotas. Confirm your meeting point and check-in time with the operator when booking.
What to Pack
Closed-toe trail shoes for grip on platforms and forest paths; lightweight sun layer and sunscreen for exposed sections; insect repellent for shaded trail segments; compact rain shell in summer for fast-moving showers.
Did You Know
At roughly 120 meters high, the Mega Tour zipline in Brotas ranks among the tallest commercial ziplines in Brazil.
Quick Travel Tips
Book a morning slot for cooler temps and clearer views; bring cash or card for post-ride snacks in town; download offline maps—cell coverage can fade outside Brotas; confirm weather policies the day before, especially in the rainy season.
Local Flavor
After your run, head to Brotas Bar for canoe-themed décor, hearty Brazilian plates, and a cold draft. Craft beer fans should try Brotas Beer, a local microbrewery with seasonal taps. If you prefer something sweeter, stop at a nearby alambique for small-batch cachaça tasting—just save it for after the harness comes off.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airports: Campinas/Viracopos (VCP) and São Paulo/GRU. Brotas is about a 3–3.5 hour drive from São Paulo depending on traffic. Expect limited cell service on rural roads and near the valley. No permits required for the zipline, but advance booking and photo ID are recommended; arrive 20–30 minutes early for check-in and briefing.
Sustainability Note
This valley’s trails and cascades are sensitive to heavy rain—respect closures, stay on marked paths, refill a reusable bottle, and leave no trace so the Jacaré-Pepira stays one of São Paulo’s cleanest rivers.
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