Morro da Igreja Urubici
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Morro da Igreja Urubici

4.8
·874 reviews·, Brazil

Brazil's coldest inhabited peak at 1,822m, offering dramatic landscapes and the iconic Pedra Furada rock arch.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Winter mornings

Crisp air, potential for snow

CrowdMedium
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Morro da Igreja Urubici

Morro da Igreja Urubici

Best Time

Winter mornings

Crisp air, potential for snow

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Brazil's coldest inhabited peak at 1,822m, offering dramatic landscapes and the iconic Pedra Furada rock arch.

4.8
(874 reviews)

"The views are amazing, and the cold is intense – a truly unique Brazilian experience!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Book Permit Early

Secure your access permit from ICMBio well in advance, especially for Pedra Furada.

🧥 Layer Up!

Even in summer, expect cold winds and low temperatures. Pack warm clothing.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Pedra Furada

Pedra Furada

Morro da Igreja

An iconic natural rock arch sculpted by centuries of wind and rain, offering breathtaking panoramic views.

Instagram+1
Panoramic Views

Panoramic Views

Summit of Morro da Igreja

At 1,822 meters, experience stunning vistas of the Serra Geral range; on clear days, you might even see the ocean.

Instagram+1
Extreme Cold Experience

Extreme Cold Experience

Morro da Igreja

Feel the chill of Brazil's coldest inhabited point, with temperatures historically dropping to -17.8°C.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Your Visit in Advance

Access to Morro da Igreja is restricted and requires a permit from the Parque Nacional de São Joaquim. Book your slot at least a week ahead, especially during peak seasons, to avoid disappointment. InstagramReddit

Prepare for Extreme Cold

Known as one of Brazil's coldest spots, temperatures can plummet drastically, with wind chill making it feel even colder. Dress in multiple warm layers, even in summer. TikTokInstagram

Best Times

When
Winter mornings
Why
Crisp air, potential for snow
Crowd
Medium
When
Clear afternoons
Why
Best visibility for views
Crowd
High
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, easier access
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

📍Urubici - SC O morro da Igreja é considerado o ponto habitado mais alto da Região Sul do Brasil. Um dos locais mais frios do país, com temperaturas que podem chegar aos -18°C, durante a expedição Pangeia III, pegamos -10°C, com sensação térmica de -25°C. Salve e Compartilhe o video com as pessoas que você gostaria de levar. 🎥 @peretti.video / @upserra_ #santacatarina #urubici #saojoaquim ...
viagemmaistv
15.6K likes • 284.1K views

🎟️ Book Permit Early

Secure your access permit from ICMBio well in advance, especially for Pedra Furada. InstagramReddit

🧥 Layer Up!

Even in summer, expect cold winds and low temperatures. Pack warm clothing. TikTokInstagram

Pedra Furada, Urubici-SC A trilha da Pedra Furada em Urubici, é uma das mais cobiçadas da Serra Catarinense por trilheiros e aventureiros. Fica numa área de difícil acesso em frente ao Morro da Igreja, no Parque Nacional de São Joaquim, em Santa Catarina. O Morro da Igreja é o ponto culminante habitado da Serra Geral com 1822 m de altitude. No local funciona uma base da Aeronáutica, onde o radar...
valesagrado_urubici
2.9K likes • 42.6K views
O Morro da Igreja, em Urubici, é o segundo ponto mais alto de Santa Catarina (1.822 m), o mais elevado habitado da Região Sul do Brasil. Com visibilidade clara, é possível avistar até o mar (mais de 100 km), embora neblina e vento intenso sejam comuns Para proteger o local, o acesso é gratuito, mas limitado e precisa de agendamento prévio no site do ICMBio. Só é permitido um agendamento por veíc...
adronesfloripa
3.9K likes • 71K views

🚗 Drive Carefully

The road to Morro da Igreja can be steep and winding. Drive cautiously. Instagram

📸 Capture the Views

Bring your camera for stunning landscapes, but be mindful of the weather. Instagram

🌄 Morro da Igreja – Urubici/SC A 1.822 metros de altitude, a estrada nos leva até onde o céu parece tocar a terra. O frio aperta, o vento sopra forte, e a paisagem... simplesmente cala qualquer palavra. Diante do Morro da Igreja, a gente entende que certas conquistas não são medidas em quilômetros — são medidas em emoção. 🏍️❄️ Vem sentir a força da Serra Catarinense com a UpSerra! 📍Morro da Igr...
upserra_
1K likes • 27.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Book Permit Early

Secure your access permit from ICMBio well in advance, especially for Pedra Furada. InstagramReddit

🧥 Layer Up!

Even in summer, expect cold winds and low temperatures. Pack warm clothing. TikTokInstagram

🚗 Drive Carefully

The road to Morro da Igreja can be steep and winding. Drive cautiously. Instagram

📸 Capture the Views

Bring your camera for stunning landscapes, but be mindful of the weather. Instagram

💧 Stay Hydrated

While it's cold, remember to drink water, especially if you're hiking. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(874 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the breathtaking, almost otherworldly landscapes of Morro da Igreja and the iconic Pedra Furada. The extreme cold and dramatic views are frequently highlighted as unforgettable experiences. However, the strict permit system and unpredictable weather can sometimes pose challenges.

"Access to this pin is restricted by a military gate, even with the permit."

Muris Demirovic

"Awesome views of the Serra Geral range. At 6,007 ft, it is the highest point around. Site of the Pedra Furada rock. Access requires a permit available from the Parque Nacional de São Joaquim, at nearby Urubici SC. The office is open regular standard hours."

L Malb

"Amazingly beautiful. The whole region near Urubici is actually full of beautiful surprises. I'm visiting again this winter."

Ristau

What People Like

Stunning panoramic views
Iconic Pedra Furada
Unique cold climate

What People Dislike

Strict permit requirements
Unpredictable fog

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most common way to reach Morro da Igreja is by car. The drive from Urubici town involves a scenic route, often passing by other attractions like the Gruta Nossa Senhora de Lourdes. Instagram Be prepared for winding and sometimes steep roads. Instagram Some visitors opt for guided tours or motorcycle trips. Instagram

The road leading to Morro da Igreja is generally paved, but can be steep and winding. Instagram It's advisable to drive carefully, especially during wet or foggy conditions. Reddit

While possible, it's more challenging. Some visitors arrange private transfers or join organized tours from Urubici. Instagram Public transport options are limited. Reddit

Many visitors combine a trip to Morro da Igreja with other attractions in the Serra Catarinense, such as the Pedra Furada trail and the Serra do Rio do Rastro. Instagram+1 Renting a car offers the most flexibility to explore the region. Reddit

Yes, be aware of potential fog and low visibility, especially in the mornings and evenings. Instagram Drive at a moderate pace and be cautious of sharp turns. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, access to Morro da Igreja and the Pedra Furada requires a permit from the Parque Nacional de São Joaquim (ICMBio). Instagram+1 It's crucial to book this in advance, ideally a week before your visit. Reddit

Permits are typically obtained through the ICMBio office in Urubici. Instagram Online booking systems may also be available, so check the official park website or local tourism information. Instagram

Access to Morro da Igreja is generally free, but you need to secure the required permit. Instagram Some tours might have associated costs. Instagram

The park has specific visiting hours, and access is controlled by the permit system. It's best to check the official park schedule when booking your permit. Instagram

Pedra Furada is located within the Morro da Igreja area, so the same permit requirements apply. Instagram+1

📸 📸 Photography

The Pedra Furada arch is the most iconic spot. Instagram+1 Also, capture the panoramic views from the summit and the dramatic landscapes of the Serra Geral. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast landscapes and the Pedra Furada. Instagram Consider a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions or potential fog. Instagram

Drone usage might be restricted within national parks. Always check park regulations before flying a drone. Instagram

Sunrise and sunset can offer dramatic lighting, but be prepared for cold. Instagram Midday on a clear day provides excellent visibility for expansive shots. Instagram

Fog and mist are common and can create atmospheric shots, but also obscure views. Instagram Strong winds can make tripod stability a challenge. Instagram

🎫 ❄️ Weather & What to Wear

Morro da Igreja is known as one of Brazil's coldest inhabited places. TikTok Temperatures can drop significantly, with extreme lows recorded. Instagram Expect strong winds and frequent fog. Instagram

Layering is key! Wear thermal base layers, insulating mid-layers (like fleece), and a waterproof/windproof outer shell. TikTok Don't forget a warm hat, gloves, and sturdy, waterproof footwear. Instagram

Yes, snow is possible during the winter months, making it a popular destination for those seeking a winter wonderland experience. Instagram

Yes, even in summer, temperatures can be surprisingly low, especially with the wind chill. Instagram It's always wise to pack warm clothing. TikTok

At 1,822 meters, the altitude contributes significantly to the colder temperatures experienced at Morro da Igreja. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Visiting Morro da Igreja with children requires careful preparation for the cold. Ensure kids are dressed in warm, layered clothing, including hats and gloves, as the temperatures can be surprisingly low even in warmer months. TikTok The drive itself offers scenic views, but the main attraction is the summit. Keep an eye on the weather forecast, as fog can limit visibility. Instagram While the hike to Pedra Furada is manageable for most, consider the children's stamina and the cold. Instagram Pack snacks and drinks, as facilities at the summit are limited. Reddit

🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts

For those who love scenic drives, the journey to Morro da Igreja is part of the adventure. The roads leading to Urubici and the mountain are known for their beauty, often passing through stunning natural landscapes. Instagram Many road trippers combine this visit with other iconic routes in Santa Catarina, such as the Serra do Rio do Rastro. Instagram Be prepared for winding roads and potential fog, and ensure your vehicle is in good condition. Reddit The permit system is a crucial part of planning, so factor that into your itinerary. Instagram

📸 Photographers

Morro da Igreja is a photographer's dream, especially for landscape enthusiasts. The Pedra Furada offers a unique framing opportunity, and the vastness of the Serra Geral provides endless compositions. Instagram+1 Be prepared for challenging light conditions due to fog and wind. Instagram A wide-angle lens is highly recommended to capture the scale of the scenery. Instagram Consider visiting during sunrise or sunset for dramatic lighting, but be equipped for extreme cold. Instagram Drone photography might be restricted, so always check park regulations. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Geology and Formation of Pedra Furada

The Pedra Furada is a spectacular natural arch, a testament to the erosive power of nature over millennia. Formed primarily by wind and rain, this iconic rock formation stands as a symbol of Urubici's dramatic landscapes. Its unique shape, a large hole carved through the rock, makes it a prime subject for photographers and a must-see for visitors. Instagram The sheer scale and artistry of this natural sculpture are awe-inspiring, drawing visitors from across Brazil and beyond. Instagram

This geological marvel is situated within the Parque Nacional de São Joaquim, a protected area that safeguards the unique ecosystems of the Serra Geral. The park's high altitude and specific climate conditions have contributed to the formation of such unique rock structures. Understanding the geological processes involved adds another layer of appreciation for this natural wonder. Instagram

Visitors often marvel at how the relentless forces of nature have sculpted this landmark. The surrounding terrain also offers stunning views, making the hike or drive to Pedra Furada a rewarding experience. Instagram It's a place where you can truly feel the ancient power of the earth. Instagram

Navigating Access and Permits

Visiting Morro da Igreja requires careful planning due to access restrictions. The site is managed by the Parque Nacional de São Joaquim, and a permit is mandatory for entry, particularly for accessing the Pedra Furada area. Instagram+1 This system is in place to protect the fragile environment and manage visitor flow. Travelers are strongly advised to book their permits well in advance, often at least a week prior to their intended visit, to avoid disappointment. Reddit

The permit process typically involves contacting the ICMBio (Instituto Chico Mendes de Conservação da Biodiversidade) or checking their official website for booking procedures. Instagram While the access itself is free, the permit ensures regulated entry. Some visitors have noted that even with a permit, there might be gate access controlled by military personnel, so it's wise to be prepared for potential checks. Reddit

Understanding these requirements beforehand is crucial for a smooth visit. Planning your trip around the permit availability will allow you to fully enjoy the breathtaking scenery without logistical hurdles. InstagramReddit

The Extreme Climate of Urubici

Morro da Igreja holds the distinction of being one of the coldest inhabited places in Brazil, a fact that significantly shapes the visitor experience. Temperatures here can plummet dramatically, with historical records showing lows of -17.8°C and wind chills reaching -30°C. TikTokInstagram This extreme cold is a defining characteristic of the region, even during summer months, where cool breezes can quickly turn chilly. Instagram

The intense cold is often accompanied by strong winds, which can make the perceived temperature much lower than the actual reading. Instagram This wind chill factor is something visitors should be prepared for. Fog and mist are also common phenomena, adding a dramatic and sometimes mystical atmosphere to the landscape, though they can also reduce visibility. Instagram

Visitors are strongly encouraged to dress in multiple layers to adapt to the fluctuating and often harsh conditions. Thermal base layers, insulating mid-layers, and a waterproof and windproof outer shell are essential. TikTok Proper winter gear, including hats and gloves, is highly recommended, regardless of the season. Instagram

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