The 5 Lakes and Pedra do Altar Circuit in Itatiaia National Park is a perfect route for beginners in mountaineering, trekking, or families with kids who are used to hiking. The route offers stunning landscapes, contact with preserved nature, and learning about the fauna, flora, and geology of Serra da Mantiqueira.
The meeting point is at Garganta do Registro, at Bar do Miguelzinho, a traditional spot among mountaineers. From there, the group heads along the dirt road to the park entrance, starting the hike at about 2,400 metres on the Itatiaia Plateau, an area of high-altitude fields with low vegetation, resistant shrubs, and endemic species.
The route is about 12 km long and is designed as a crossing, allowing you to explore a large part of the park without repeating sections. During the hike, you'll pass along marked trails, cross streams, traverse rocky areas, and observe impressive geological formations.
Along the way, you'll come across the five high-altitude lakes, which reflect the mountains and the sky, creating perfect settings for photos and contemplation. Each lake has its own unique features, surrounded by rocks or undergrowth, offering a chance to spot birds and small animals typical of the high-altitude environment.
The highlight is Pedra do Altar, at 2,665 metres, the 11th highest mountain in Brazil. There, the group takes a break for a snack and a rest, taking in views of Pico das Agulhas Negras, Morro do Couto, and the park's valleys and peaks. The experience gives you a unique feeling of achievement and connection with nature.
After the break, the trail continues along the base of the Agulhas Negras to the Rebouças Shelter, the highest refuge in the country. You'll head back along the road to the entrance, wrapping up the tour around 4:00 PM. Even though it's 12 km, the circuit is easy, with few ups and downs, low technical difficulty, and not many natural obstacles. It's perfect for people who are in good shape or kids who are used to short hikes.
The package includes a certified guide, entrance to Itatiaia National Park, travel insurance, and a collective first aid kit. Doesn't include transport, parking, snacks, or drinks. We recommend bringing a small backpack (20L), a snack, comfortable boots, a raincoat or anorak, a hat or cap, sun cream, and a water bottle with at least 1 litre of water.
The itinerary might change depending on the weather, access, or how many people are in the group, but safety always comes first. This itinerary goes beyond a trail: it's an immersion in Brazilian mountaineering, between lakes and mountains, offering adventure, contemplation, and learning in one of the country's most important parks.
