Every July, the city of Itaboraí in Rio de Janeiro shakes off the winter chill with its vibrant Festival de Inverno, a cultural and outdoor celebration that invites visitors to engage both nature and community. The festival isn’t about frigid isolation but about warmth—warmth found in lively music, local food, and the rugged terrain surrounding the area that calls for exploration.

The festival opens paths beyond the city’s edge, where forested trails rise to panoramic views of rolling hills and distant Atlantic glimpses. Itaboraí’s topography challenges visitors with moderate hikes ranging from 6 to 10 kilometers, often accompanied by an elevation gain around 400 meters. Trails wind through dense Atlantic Forest sections, where trees stretch high as if exchanging stories with the sky, and rivers slyly curve, daring hikers to cross or follow their courses.

For those keen on hiking before or during the festival, sturdy footwear is a non-negotiable. Expect uneven roots, occasional slippery granite slabs dampened by winter rains, and muddy patches. Starting your trek in early morning ensures cooler temperatures and the chance to see wildlife in motion—the songs of passerine birds punctuate the quiet, while capuchin monkeys stealthily observe from above. Hydration is crucial; carry at least 2 liters, as winter in Itaboraí mixes brisk air with surprising stretches of sun.

The festival itself blends a practical rustic vibe with an artistic pulse. Apart from trekking, the event hosts regional music performances, artisan markets, and workshops focusing on local traditions, making it a full-sensory experience. It’s a pulse check on a community fiercely itself—rooted but unafraid to celebrate the present.

If your itinerary includes the hike, plan a flexible schedule. Trails become slippery midday with sudden showers, pushing for a cautious pace rather than a race. After the hike, the town’s eateries offer warming options: bean stews thick with local flavors and freshly brewed artisanal coffees that ground both body and spirit.

Festival de Inverno de Itaboraí isn’t just an event, it’s a conversation with the land that demands respect, attention, and a readiness to get a bit muddy. Respect the wildness of the environment—it’s neither tamed nor waiting quietly. Each step on the trail is a dialogue between your determination and the forest’s persistent pulse.