Every June, São Lourenço transforms into a hub of ecological awareness and outdoor adventure during Semana do Meio Ambiente. This weeklong event celebrates the environment with immersive hikes, workshops, and community activities set against the backdrop of Minas Gerais’s lush landscapes. For hikers and nature lovers, the event is an invitation to engage directly with the region’s diverse ecosystems while compact trails actively challenge and reward those who explore them.

The event’s hallmark is its guided hikes through the Serra da Mantiqueira foothills. Expect forested paths spattered with sunlight, weaving beneath towering jaqueira and ipê trees that seem to lean in as if observing your approach. The terrain covers roughly 8 kilometers with an elevation gain of about 350 meters, suitable for both casual walkers and those seeking a moderate challenge. The route’s mix of soft earth, occasional rocky steps, and short steep inclines demands sturdy hiking boots and a steady pace.

Streams running beside the trail aren’t just passive backdrops; they actively challenge you as currents quicken after rain, daring you to navigate slippery roots and uneven stones. Small waterfalls hum with energy, inviting brief pauses to soak in the atmosphere and refill water bottles. Timing your hike early in the day is practical—before the sun climbs too high—keeping hydration and sun protection top of mind.

Along the way, local guides share insights about native plants used in traditional remedies, adding depth to the experience. Bird song punctuates the air, with taluding calls from the white-necked hawk and the subtle rustle of manakins flitting through the canopy, creating a living soundtrack for your steps.

Preparation boosts enjoyment here. Carry at least two liters of water in a durable bottle, pack a lightweight rain jacket due to sudden afternoon showers in June, and bring snacks rich in protein to sustain energy. For navigation, the trails are marked clearly but having a map or GPS app with offline access helps avoid any wandering.

Semana do Meio Ambiente in São Lourenço turns the forest into a classroom and playground. It challenges visitors to understand and respect the vibrant ecosystems fiercely themselves, framing the natural environment not as something to conquer but as a living partner in your adventure. Whether you’re marking your first trail or your fiftieth, this event invites a practical engagement with nature’s rhythms, promising both discovery and a welcome reset from urban pace.