8 Hour Private Tour of Campos Do Jordão

If you’re looking to escape the hustle of São Paulo and find yourself surrounded by mountain air, lush gardens, and European-inspired architecture, this 8-hour private tour of Campos do Jordão might just be your ticket. At $215 per person, with flexible pickup and drop-off options, it offers a well-rounded taste of this charming mountain town, famed for its scenic beauty and cozy atmosphere. Led by friendly, knowledgeable guides, this tour promises to balance sightseeing with authentic local flavor.

What we love most? First, the variety of sites—ranging from beautifully curated gardens to panoramic viewpoints—ensures there’s a little bit of everything. Second, the personalized attention means your guide can tailor the day to your interests, whether that’s exploring gardens, shopping in quaint villages, or just soaking up views. The only consideration? Since park tickets are not included, you’ll want to budget for entrance fees if you wish to visit certain attractions, especially Amantikir Gardens or Itapeva Peak.

Who will enjoy this? This tour suits travelers who appreciate scenic landscapes, charming towns, and well-curated experiences, all delivered with expert guidance. It’s perfect for those who want a full day of sightseeing without the hassle of organizing transportation or worrying about getting lost in a new place.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private tour means flexibility on timing, itinerary, and locations.
• Diverse Stops: Gardens, viewpoints, charming village streets, waterfalls, and local shops.
• Expert Guides: Friendly and knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with local insights.
• Value for Money: A comprehensive day packed with varied highlights, with optional park visits.
• Scenic Views: Several stops offer expansive vistas of the Paraíba Valley and beyond.
• No Park Entrance Fees Included: Budget for entry tickets if you want full access.

A Detailed Look at the Itinerary

Amantikir Park: A Garden Wonderland

The tour kicks off at Amantikir Gardens, a sprawling collection of 26 gardens, each with its own theme and architectural influences. You’ll love the way each space offers unique scenery—some with tranquil water features, others with artistic plant arrangements. The Zen Courtyard, Torii, Chinese Dragon, and Moon Gate create a sense of traveling through different cultural landscapes without leaving the grounds. Visitors often comment on the “various architectural references,” making it a perfect spot for photography and peaceful strolling. Keep in mind, admission isn’t included, so you’ll want to budget separately if you want to explore the entire site.

Romantik Dalen: A Love-Locked Bridge and Chapel

Next, you’ll visit Romantik Dalen, situated right in the city center. The highlight here is the bridge decorated with colorful umbrellas, inspired by the Pont des Arts in Paris. Couples flock here to seal their love with padlocks, a charming tradition that adds a dash of romance to your day. There’s also a small chapel inspired by Vegas chapels, where many couples renew vows—an unexpectedly sweet touch. It’s a quick stop, about 30 minutes, but a great chance to soak in the local atmosphere and snap some photos.

Vila Capivari: The Heart of the Town

No visit to Campos do Jordão would be complete without a stroll through Vila Capivari, the town’s bustling center. This is where European charm really comes alive—think Alpine-style buildings, cozy cafes, and boutique shops. The Capivari Square and Av. Macedo Soares buzz with activity both day and night. Visitors consistently praise the town’s “European/Swiss vibe,” and many say that simply wandering around is worth the trip itself. This stop is free, and about an hour long, giving you plenty of time to browse and soak in the lively atmosphere.

Ducha de Prata: Waterfalls and Relaxation

For a change of scenery, the tour takes you to Ducha de Prata, a series of man-made waterfalls built from dammed stream waters. Wooden walkways allow you to admire the cascading water from multiple angles, and it’s a relaxing spot to listen to soothing water sounds or take photos. As one reviewer noted, it’s “a favorite stop for those interested in listening to the relaxing sound of water.” Expect about 30 minutes here—just enough time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

Itapeva Peak: Panoramic Views and a Cozy Castle

A true highlight is Itapeva Peak, where a lookout point offers sweeping views of the Paraíba Valley. On clear days, you might even catch sight of Aparecida do Norte, a famed religious city in Brazil. Surrounded by French lavenders—around 2,000 seedlings—this place is as pretty as a postcard. You’ll find a small castle where you can enjoy a warm drink, like hot chocolate or coffee, adding a cozy touch to the scenic experience. This stop is about an hour long but note that entrance fee is not included.

Cacau Show: Chocolate Heaven

The tour wraps up at the Cacau Show chocolate shop, a must-visit for sweet-tooths. The shop is large, two-stories, and features a delightful 80% chocolate mock-up of the city, along with shelves of local treats and discounts. Visitors have praised the shop as an “interesting chocolate experience,” and it’s a fun way to pick up souvenirs. The visit is about 30 minutes and free of charge.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Beyond the scenic stops, what truly elevates this experience are the guides. Multiple reviews mention guides like Isaac, Edson, and Pedro, who are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and engaging personalities. Their insights turn a sightseeing trip into a storytelling adventure, helping you understand each location’s significance and history.

The private nature of the tour means you can enjoy a relaxed pace, tailor the itinerary to your interests, and avoid crowded group tours. It also offers flexibility with timing and pick-up/drop-off, making it convenient even for travelers with tight schedules or specific needs.

Another big plus is the opportunity to explore off-the-beaten-path sites like the gardens and viewpoints that aren’t always included in standard tours. The balance of nature, culture, and leisure makes for an authentic experience that’s both fun and educational.

Practical Considerations

While the tour offers a comprehensive day out, be aware that entrance tickets to parks are not included. This means you should budget extra if you want full access to places like Amantikir Gardens or Itapeva Peak. The cost of admission varies by site, so doing some quick research beforehand can help you plan accordingly.

Transportation is handled in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, which is great, especially in warmer weather. The total duration of 8 to 9 hours makes it a full day, but most travelers find it worth it for the variety and depth of experience.

The cost of $215 per person offers good value considering the private guide, transportation, and the intimate attention to your interests. Since this is a private experience, it’s ideal for couples, small families, or friends who want a personalized day in the mountains.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour appeals to travelers who enjoy scenic beauty, charming towns, and cultural sights. If you’re someone who appreciates gardens, panoramic viewpoints, and authentic local atmospheres, you’ll find plenty to enjoy. The guide’s local expertise is a big plus for those who want to understand the history and stories behind each site.

It’s also perfect if you prefer a more relaxed, customizable experience rather than a rigid group schedule. Whether you’re visiting São Paulo on a layover or staying a few days in the region, this tour offers a well-rounded, enjoyable taste of Campos do Jordão’s natural and cultural highlights.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the variety of stops makes it accessible for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

Are food and drinks included?
No, meals are not included, but you’ll have the chance to explore local restaurants and cafes during the stops, especially in Vila Capivari.

How flexible is the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, guides can tailor the timing, pick-up, and drop-off points to your preferences, within the scheduled duration.

Do I need to buy tickets in advance?
Tickets for parks like Amantikir or Itapeva Peak are not included and should be purchased separately if you wish to visit those sites.

What is the duration of each stop?
Stops vary from about 30 minutes at Romantik Dalen and Cacau Show, to an hour at Amantikir Gardens and Itapeva Peak, allowing for a leisurely exploration.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the vehicle is air-conditioned and private, designed to make your day as comfortable as possible.

Final Thoughts

This 8-hour private tour of Campos do Jordão offers an excellent balance of scenic beauty, cultural charm, and personalized attention. It’s particularly well-suited for those who want to see a variety of sites without the hassle of organizing their own transport or navigating unfamiliar streets. The guides’ friendliness and local knowledge make the experience even more memorable, turning simple stops into meaningful moments.

If you’re after a day filled with stunning views, charming villages, and lush gardens, this tour is a fantastic choice—especially if you appreciate flexibility and a touch of authenticity in your travels. Just be prepared for some extra costs for entry tickets, and you’ll be set for a memorable mountain getaway just a few hours from São Paulo.