Serra do Rio Rastro Scenic Drive

Experience an unforgettable road trip through the stunning Serra do Rio Rastro Scenic Drive! This 150km route starts in Tubarao, Brazil and ends in Sao Joaquim, Brazil. It is recommended to complete this road trip in one day, and the best time to experience it is during the summer months. This route offers a variety of landscapes, from lush green hillsides to winding mountain roads. You can expect a good road surface for most of the journey, although some sections may be narrow or curvy. This road trip provides an amazing experience, and is suitable for all drivers. You can complete this journey without breaking the bank, and you are sure to remember it for a lifetime!

Tubarão is a city in Santa Catarina, Brazil, located just off the coast of the Atlantic Ocean. It is a great starting point for the "Serra do Rio Rastro Scenic Drive" road trip, as it offers many attractions and activities to travelers. Tubarão is home to a number of beautiful beaches, perfect for soaking up the sun and swimming in the crystal-clear water. The city also has a vibrant nightlife with many bars and restaurants to explore. For those looking for something a bit more adventurous, Tubarão also offers a range of activities such as surfing, fishing, and kayaking. For travelers arriving by air, the closest international airport to Tubarão is Navegantes-Ministro Victor Konder International Airport (NVT), located just a short drive away. From there, travelers can find a range of car rental companies to get them on the road to the start of the "Serra do Rio Rastro Scenic Drive" road trip. Tubarão is an ideal destination for those looking to explore the beauty of Brazil. With its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and plethora of activities, it is an excellent starting point for the "Serra do Rio Rastro Scenic Drive" road trip. With a range of car rental companies available from Navegantes-Ministro Victor Konder International Airport (NVT), Tubarão is the perfect place to begin a journey of exploration and discovery.

Embark on a road trip from Tubarão to São Joaquim, a journey of approximately 150 km that will take you less than 4 hours. Along the way, you'll be enchanted by the breathtaking views of the verdant hills and lush farmlands, and you'll be driving along some of the most scenic roads in the region. Be warned that there are some steep ramps, and in some sections the road is very winding, so be careful when driving. In other sections, the road will be narrow, so take extra care to ensure your safety. As you drive, you'll be able to visit some of the most interesting places in the area, such as the Itajaí Valley, the Serra do Rio do Rastro, and the Serra Geral. Soak up the beauty of the landscape, and make sure to take plenty of photos. More information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy the journey!

Sao Joaquim is a charming city in the southern Brazilian state of Santa Catarina. Located at the end of the Serra do Rio Rastro Scenic Drive, it is a popular destination for those looking for a scenic car journey. Sao Joaquim has many attractions for visitors. The historic center of the city is a great place to explore, with cobblestone streets and old colonial buildings. The Cathedral of Sao Joaquim is a must-see, with its impressive architecture and lovely stained glass windows. For a more modern experience, the nearby Sao Joaquim Shopping Center is a great option. Here you will find stores, restaurants, and cafes where you can relax and enjoy the atmosphere. Nature lovers will appreciate the nearby parks and reserves, such as the Sao Joaquim National Park. Here you can hike through the lush forests and admire the incredible views. For those who want to explore the region further, the nearby towns of Urubici and Urubici are great places to visit. For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Navegantes International Airport (NVT), located about 130km from Sao Joaquim. At the end of the Serra do Rio Rastro Scenic Drive, Sao Joaquim is a great destination for a memorable journey. From its historic center to its nearby parks and reserves, it offers something for everyone. Whether you are looking for an adventurous road trip or a relaxing getaway, Sao Joaquim is the perfect place to explore.

Before you set off

The Serra do Rio do Rastro Scenic Drive is an awe-inspiring 150 km journey that commences in Tubarão and culminates in São Joaquim, Brazil. This drive, which winds through the majestic mountains of Santa Catarina, showcases a tapestry of verdant landscapes and imposing cliffs, delivering an exhilarating adventure that typically spans an entire day.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

• Tubarão: Known for its rich cultural tapestry and warm hospitality, Tubarão is the perfect starting point to immerse oneself in Southern Brazilian culture before ascending the mountains.
• Lauro Müller: This town is the gateway to the Serra do Rio do Rastro, presenting drivers with the iconic, serpentine Roads that carve through the mountains, offering panoramic views of deep canyons and lush valleys.
• Bom Jardim da Serra: Renowned for its breathtaking viewpoints, this area allows travelers to gaze upon the sprawling landscapes and visit the awe-inspiring Cascata do Avencal, a nearby waterfall that plunges from a height of over 100 meters.
• São Joaquim: The endpoint of the drive, this town sits at an elevation of 1,360 meters above sea level and is famous for its apple orchards, vineyards, and for being one of the coldest cities in Brazil.

Best Time to Go:

Embark on this Road Trip during the Brazilian summer, from December to February, to enjoy clearer skies and safer driving conditions, as the Roads are less prone to fog and ice, which can be common in the winter months.

Potential Risks:

• Drivers may face narrow and twisting mountain Roads that can prove challenging, especially for those unaccustomed to such conditions.
• Fog can roll in quickly, especially in higher elevations, reducing visibility and requiring extra caution.
• Heavy rainfall may trigger landslides, so checking weather forecasts and Road conditions before traveling is essential.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

• The Serra do Rio do Rastro features a remarkable stretch with 12 km of tight turns and hairpin bends, ascending to an altitude of approximately 1,460 meters at its highest point.
• The drive can be a budget-friendly experience, as it does not require multiple days to complete, but offers a wealth of natural beauty along the way.
• While the route is accessible to drivers of varying skill levels, those with prior experience navigating mountain Roads will find it particularly enjoyable.

A good choice for:

Taking on the Serra do Rio do Rastro Scenic Drive is an invitation to embrace the natural splendor and challenging Roadways of Brazil. With thoughtful preparation and an adventurous mindset, Roadtrippers will embark on a remarkable expedition that promises to leave an indelible impression with its scenic wonders and unique driving experience.