Each year, São José dos Campos welcomes adventurers from all over Brazil and beyond to the Festival de Montanhismo, a dynamic gathering where mountain hiking meets community spirit. The festival unfolds amid the rugged landscapes around Serra da Mantiqueira, offering trails that challenge the body while inviting the senses to engage with São Paulo's hidden natural side.

Stretching across varied terrain, the hikes during the festival range from moderate 8-12 km loops with elevation gains of 600-900 meters to more demanding routes pushing well beyond 15 km and 1,200 meters of ascent. Forested paths weave through eucalyptus and native Atlantic Forest trees, their leaves whispering tales as they sway in gentle mountain breezes. Rivers cut through the landscape, daring you to respect their flow and sudden twists as you navigate crossing points or scenic breaks.

Early morning starts are practical—humidity retards upward momentum by midday, and the mountain sun can press stubbornly against unprepared skin. Hydration becomes your first and most loyal companion; carry at least 2 liters per person, more if you plan to tackle one of the festival's longer routes. Footwear matters significantly here: sturdy hiking boots with solid grip will absorb the shock of rocky paths and loose soil that can challenge even the most practiced footfalls.

The Festival de Montanhismo merges adventure with practical learning. Workshops on map reading, basic climbing techniques, and environmental awareness offer tools to move safely and responsibly. This engagement with nature holds a respectful space—it's not about conquering the mountains, but about understanding their fierce, self-contained energy looming over every step.

Seasonal timing impacts what you see and feel. Autumn brings cooler air and clearer skies, perfect for catching panoramic views from high ridges where the city fades to a distant hum. Spring awakens wildflowers and bursts of bird calls, turning the terrain into an active canvas. Summer’s tougher: frequent afternoon rains can swell streams and slick surfaces; preparation is key. Winter offers dry trails with chilly dawns that strengthen the body’s core but soften the earth for easier footing.

What makes this festival stand out is its invitation—not just to walk these hills but to join a community of mountain lovers. Shared stories by campfires, group dynamics on challenging ascents, and the thrill of uniting physical effort with stunning natural payoff shape an experience balanced between excitement and practicality.

If your plan includes the Festival de Montanhismo, gear up with layered clothing, reliable hydration, sun protection, and a readiness to match the mountain's rhythm. Embrace each trail section as a conversation with nature’s deeply rooted will—respect it, navigate thoughtfully, and you’ll find the climb rewarding both in challenge and discovery.