Plizio Visual Lab

Pico da Bandeira

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Mountain

Weather…

Pico da Bandeira is Brazil's third highest mountain, standing at 2,891 meters on the border between the states of Espírito Santo and Minas Gerais. It is located within the Caparaó National Park, established in 1961 to preserve the high-altitude Atlantic Forest ecosystems of the region. The peak received its name in the mid-19th century from Emperor Dom Pedro II, who ordered the national flag to be raised at what was then believed to be the highest point in Brazil. It held the title of the nation's tallest summit until the 1960s, when modern surveys identified higher peaks along the northern border with Venezuela. The mountain is a popular hiking destination with well-defined trails that offer expansive views of the Serra do Caparaó range. Due to its significant elevation, the summit area experiences a microclimate with freezing temperatures and frost common during the winter months.

Location: Brazil
Top sights: Vale Encantado · Pico do Cristal · Vale Verde

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug, Sep.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	22	22	22	20	18	17	17	18	20	21	21	22
Rain mm	179	122	145	76	47	23	20	19	47	91	193	246

📋 Practical info

🧭

Getting there

Generally approached through Caparaó National Park from either the Minas Gerais or Espírito Santo entrances. Well-marked dirt trails typically start from the designated base camp areas.

📅

Best season

Usually climbed during the drier winter months from June to August to secure clearer skies and minimize rain. This is traditionally the most reliable time for the famous sunrise viewing.

⛰️

Terrain & paths

The trail consists mainly of rocky paths, resilient alpine vegetation, and some steep, uneven sections near the summit. Night hiking requires careful footing over loose, dark stones.

🎒

What to bring

Thermal clothing is absolutely essential as temperatures frequently drop below freezing before dawn. Bring a reliable headlamp, sturdy trekking boots, and windproof outer layers for the top.

🅿️

Parking

Parking is typically available directly at the national park entrances or designated camping areas like Tronqueira. It is always best to verify access hours with local park authorities.

⚠️

Safety

Altitude sickness is quite rare but still possible; visitors should pace themselves and stay consistently hydrated. Extreme cold and severe wind chill near the summit pose the main hazards.

⏱️

Time needed

Most hikers complete the rigorous ascent and subsequent descent in about seven to ten hours total. Many naturally opt to split the journey by camping overnight near the lower base.