Mirante da Serra do Rio do Rastro
Experience Brazil's iconic SC-390 drive with 284 curves, leading to breathtaking mountain vistas and often a sea of clouds.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Mirante da Serra do Rio do Rastro
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience Brazil's iconic SC-390 drive with 284 curves, leading to breathtaking mountain vistas and often a sea of clouds.
"The views are amazing, even with clouds covering part of the landscape!"
🚗 Drive with Caution
The SC-390 has 284 curves! Drive slowly and be aware of other vehicles, especially motorcycles.
🧥 Dress in Layers
Temperatures can change rapidly at altitude. Be prepared for cooler weather, even in summer.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic SC-390 Drive
SC-390 Highway
Experience one of Brazil's most iconic and breathtaking drives with 284 curves and stunning mountain vistas.
Mirante da Serra do Rio do Rastro
Summit of the Serra
Marvel at panoramic views from over 1,400 meters, often above a sea of clouds.
+1
Mirante Serra Parque
Near the summit
Enjoy unique angles of the canyon and 360° views, perfect for photos and contemplation.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Respect Nature's Beauty
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive with Caution
The SC-390 has 284 curves! Drive slowly and be aware of other vehicles, especially motorcycles.
🧥 Dress in Layers
Temperatures can change rapidly at altitude. Be prepared for cooler weather, even in summer.
🚫 No Feeding Wildlife
Please do not feed the coatis or other wild animals. It harms their health and the environment.
🗑️ Pack Out Your Trash
Help keep the Serra clean by taking all your garbage with you.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive with Caution
The SC-390 has 284 curves! Drive slowly and be aware of other vehicles, especially motorcycles.
🧥 Dress in Layers
Temperatures can change rapidly at altitude. Be prepared for cooler weather, even in summer.
🚫 No Feeding Wildlife
Please do not feed the coatis or other wild animals. It harms their health and the environment.
🗑️ Pack Out Your Trash
Help keep the Serra clean by taking all your garbage with you.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera or phone for incredible photo opportunities, especially from the viewpoints.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking views and the thrilling drive along the SC-390. The 'sea of clouds' phenomenon is a highlight for many. However, some reviewers note issues with litter and the need for better upkeep at certain viewpoints, along with concerns about visitors feeding wildlife.
"Amazing place!
Next to the sunset the clouds usually cover part of the landscape, but it is still wonderful!
PLEASE DO NOT FEED WILD ANIMALS!!!"
Guilherme Israel Vedana
"This is such a beautiful place and an amazing view. We went on a holiday weekend so it was completely crowded, although seeing all the other bikes was great. I would recommend a weekday not in the holidays for less traffic on the road as it took us a very long time to descend due to the volume of traffic travelling in each direction."
Suzanna Bostock
"Top"
Wesley Cardoso Matidone
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach the Mirante is by driving the SC-390 highway, which connects Lauro Müller to Bom Jardim da Serra. This road is famous for its 284 hairpin turns and stunning scenery.
The SC-390 is generally open year-round, but it can be closed temporarily due to heavy snow, ice, or landslides, especially during winter. Always check local road conditions before your trip.
Many visitors recommend driving it slowly to fully appreciate the views and navigate the curves safely. Motorcycles are very popular here, so be mindful of them.
Public transport directly to the mirante is limited. Most visitors arrive by private car or motorcycle. Some tour operators offer day trips from nearby cities.
The 12km stretch of the SC-390 can take anywhere from 30 minutes to over an hour, depending on traffic, weather, and how often you stop for photos. On busy holiday weekends, descent can take much longer.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Access to the main viewpoints along the SC-390 is generally free. However, some private mirantes, like Mirante Serra Parque, may have a small entrance fee for access to their facilities.
The viewpoints are typically accessible 24/7 as they are along a public road. However, facilities at private mirantes will have specific operating hours.
No advance booking is usually required for the public viewpoints. If you plan to visit specific attractions like the Rio do Rastro Eco Resort for sunset experiences, booking ahead is recommended.
The main restriction is related to road safety and weather conditions. During periods of heavy snow or ice, the road may be temporarily closed.
While the road is technically open, visiting at night is not recommended due to the challenging curves and lack of lighting. The views are best experienced during daylight hours.
📸 📸 Photography
The main Mirante da Serra do Rio do Rastro offers iconic panoramic shots. Mirante Serra Parque provides unique angles and 360° views.
Early morning for potential 'sea of clouds' views and soft light, and late afternoon for golden hour and sunset.
Yes, drones are popular for capturing aerial views of the winding road and the landscape.
Photos of the winding SC-390 road from above, panoramic vistas from the mirantes, and shots featuring the 'sea of clouds' phenomenon are very popular.
While not widely advertised, some local guides or tour operators might offer photography-focused excursions. It's worth inquiring locally or with accommodation providers.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The primary activity is enjoying the breathtaking views from the various viewpoints. Some mirantes offer amenities like picnic areas, cafes, and even infinity swings.
Yes, Mirante Serra Parque mentions a 'Trilha' (trail) as one of its offerings, suggesting there are opportunities for short hikes or walks in the vicinity.
Facilities vary. Some public viewpoints are basic, while private ones like Mirante Serra Parque offer restrooms, cafes, and recreational activities.
Designated pull-offs and mirantes are safe places to stop. Be cautious when stopping on the side of the road, especially on curves, and always be aware of traffic.
You might see coatis, birds, and other small mammals. Remember not to feed them, as it's harmful.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, some private mirantes and nearby resorts offer dining options. For example, Rio do Rastro Eco Resort offers breakfast with a view.
Expect regional cuisine, often featuring local produce. Cafes typically offer snacks, coffee, and light meals.
Picnicking is a great option, and some mirantes, like Mirante Serra Parque, explicitly mention picnic areas.
Bom Jardim da Serra, located at the top of the Serra, has several restaurants and cafes offering local dishes.
Prices can vary, but expect them to be slightly higher at the mirantes due to their remote location. Packing some snacks is a good idea.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as facilities can be limited. 🏍️ Motorcyclists
Many riders consider it a must-do experience in Brazil. The SC-390 offers an exhilarating ride, but riders must be highly skilled and cautious due to the road's nature. 📸 Photographers
+1 The 'sea of clouds' phenomenon offers ethereal and dramatic lighting, especially during sunrise and sunset. Explore different viewpoints like Mirante Serra Parque for unique compositions. +1 Consider bringing a drone for truly breathtaking aerial shots, but always adhere to regulations. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Thrill of the SC-390 Drive
+1 The ascent provides increasingly dramatic views, making the journey as memorable as the destination itself. Drivers should exercise extreme caution, as the road is narrow and winding, with steep drops. Many visitors, especially motorcyclists, consider driving the Serra do Rio do Rastro a bucket-list experience.
The road connects the lower-lying region of Lauro Müller to the higher plateau of Bom Jardim da Serra, reaching an altitude of over 1,400 meters. Pro Tip: Weekdays are highly recommended to avoid heavy traffic, which can significantly slow down your descent and detract from the experience.
Experiencing the Mirantes: Views Above the Clouds
This phenomenon is particularly common in the cooler months and during specific times of the day. The sheer scale of the mountains and the intricate pattern of the SC-390 below are a photographer's dream. Beyond the main mirante, Mirante Serra Parque offers a more curated experience with unique angles of the surrounding canyons and 360-degree views.
+1 This spot often features amenities like an infinity swing and picnic areas, making it a great place to linger and soak in the scenery. Other private mirantes, such as those associated with the Rio do Rastro Eco Resort, provide exclusive viewpoints and experiences, like sunset viewing sessions. When visiting the mirantes, remember that respect for nature is paramount. Many reviews mention issues with litter and the temptation to feed wild animals like coatis.
Wildlife and Conservation
It's crucial to understand that feeding coatis and other wildlife human junk food is detrimental to their health and natural behaviors. It can lead to dependency, disease, and aggression.
Conservation efforts are vital to maintaining the pristine beauty of the Serra. Visitors are urged to practice Leave No Trace principles, which include packing out all trash and minimizing their impact on the environment.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit