Reserva Florestal do Morro Grande
A vital Mata Atlântica fragment, this reserve is São Paulo's green lung, crucial for water and air, yet facing preservation challenges.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, better for nature observation
Reserva Florestal do Morro Grande
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better for nature observation
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vital Mata Atlântica fragment, this reserve is São Paulo's green lung, crucial for water and air, yet facing preservation challenges.
"Recognized for its ecological importance, but suffers from lack of maintenance and clear public access."
Check Access First
Confirm current access rules and if reservations are needed for specific areas like the dams.
Pack Out All Trash
Help preserve the reserve by taking all your waste with you.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Barragem Pedro Beicht
Reserva Florestal do Morro Grande
A significant dam offering scenic views and a testament to the reserve's water management role. Access may require prior arrangement.
Cachoeira Nossa Senhora das Graças
Near Reserva Florestal do Morro Grande
A natural waterfall, though sometimes described as having weak flow and being affected by litter. It's a point of interest for those exploring the area.
Barragem da Graça
Reserva Florestal do Morro Grande
Part of the water treatment system for Alto Cotia, this dam is a key feature within the reserve's landscape.
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Planning Your Visit
Access & Regulations
Environmental Concerns
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Access First
Confirm current access rules and if reservations are needed for specific areas like the dams.
Pack Out All Trash
Help preserve the reserve by taking all your waste with you.
Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can be uneven and muddy; good footwear is essential for hiking. 
Be Prepared for Limited Facilities
There are no public restrooms or guides on-site.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Access First
Confirm current access rules and if reservations are needed for specific areas like the dams.
Pack Out All Trash
Help preserve the reserve by taking all your waste with you.
Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can be uneven and muddy; good footwear is essential for hiking.
Be Prepared for Limited Facilities
There are no public restrooms or guides on-site.
Respect Wildlife
Rare sightings like onças pardas have been reported; observe from a distance.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Reserva Florestal do Morro Grande is recognized for its ecological importance as a vital green space, but it suffers from a lack of maintenance and clear public access. Visitors report issues with litter, inadequate facilities, and restricted entry to key attractions, overshadowing its natural beauty.
"Top"
JADER CANTOR
"Lugar assombroso. A Sabesp não cuida de nada , não preserva e só trata o local como uma fonte de renda e nada mais. A água que sai da propriedade é de responsabilidade da Prefeitura que tbm não cuida e não controla . A cachoeira é muito perigosa , na trilha muita sujeira , muita macumba , garrafa de vidro , lixo e resto de comida. As vezes fezes humana ,pois no lugar não tem sanitário ou guia . Ou seja qualquer que quiser ir vai conseguir chegar até a cachoeira, quanto a represa somente com agendamento prévio ."
Wiliam da Silva Lima Santos
"Barragem da graça, captação da estação de tratamento de água Alto Cotia."
Marcelo Naka
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The reserve is located in Cotia, a municipality in the São Paulo metropolitan area. Access is often via Rodovia Raposo Tavares (KM 39 is mentioned for nearby condos) or Rodovia Régis Bittencourt. Public transport options might be limited, so driving is generally recommended.
Information on dedicated parking is scarce. Visitors often access the reserve via trails or roads that may have limited parking, especially near trailheads.
While possible, cell service and driver availability in more remote parts of the reserve might be inconsistent. It's advisable to have a backup plan.
Access to the Barragem Pedro Beicht may be restricted and often requires prior scheduling. Information on specific routes is best obtained closer to your visit.
Currently, there are no official guided tours or tourist guides available within the reserve, making self-exploration the primary option.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Official information on ticketing for general public access is limited. Some areas, like the dams, may require prior scheduling or have restricted access managed by Sabesp.
Specific opening hours for the entire reserve are not clearly defined for public access. Access to certain areas might be restricted or require appointments.
Visits to the Barragem Pedro Beicht are often prohibited but sometimes occur. It's recommended to check for any official access policies or schedule visits in advance.
No specific entry fees for general hiking are widely advertised. However, access to certain facilities or areas might be regulated by Sabesp.
While some trails might be accessible without an appointment, key attractions like the dams often require prior scheduling or may be off-limits.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Key attractions include the Barragem Pedro Beicht, Barragem da Graça, and the Cachoeira Nossa Senhora das Graças. The reserve is also known for its Mata Atlântica forest and potential wildlife sightings.
While trails exist, they can be challenging and sometimes poorly maintained. Visitors have reported them being used for cycling and motocross, which can disrupt the experience. +1
Reviews indicate that trails can be dirty, with litter and remnants of rituals. There are no public restrooms or guides available on-site.
The water quality in the waterfalls has been described as dirty and stagnant, with reports of ritualistic items and litter. Swimming is not generally recommended due to these conditions and potential dangers.
The reserve is a habitat for various species, with rare sightings of onças pardas (pumas) being reported. It's important to observe wildlife from a safe distance.
📸 📸 Photography
The dams, particularly Barragem Pedro Beicht and Barragem da Graça, offer scenic views. The lush Mata Atlântica forest itself provides ample opportunities for nature photography.
Yes, the reserve is home to diverse wildlife, including rare sightings of onças pardas. Patience and a good zoom lens are recommended for capturing wildlife shots.
Early mornings or late afternoons often provide the best natural light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and enhancing the natural beauty of the forest.
There is no specific information regarding drone usage. It's advisable to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone.
Challenges include potential litter on trails, restricted access to certain areas, and the noise from off-road vehicles that can disturb wildlife and the serene atmosphere.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If you do visit with children, focus on accessible areas and shorter, well-maintained paths if available. Emphasize the importance of respecting the environment by not littering and observing any wildlife from a safe distance. The natural beauty can still be appreciated, but parental supervision is key.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Trail Runners
+1Be prepared for varied trail conditions, which can include mud and uneven surfaces. Some visitors have noted that trails can be impacted by cyclists and motocross riders, which might affect the experience. It's advisable to check recent trail conditions and consider visiting during off-peak hours for a more serene run or hike.
🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Photographers
Photographers can find scenic opportunities at the dams and within the lush forest. Early morning or late afternoon light is ideal. However, be mindful of the environmental challenges, such as litter, and the potential for noise from recreational vehicles, which can detract from the natural ambiance.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Ecological Importance of Reserva Florestal do Morro Grande
+2Despite its ecological significance, the reserve faces considerable threats. A proposed new highway connecting Raposo Tavares and Régis Bittencourt, part of the 'Nova Raposo' project, poses a direct risk of deforestation in crucial watershed areas and could accelerate uncontrolled urbanization. This highlights the ongoing tension between conservation efforts and development pressures in the region.
Conservation efforts are ongoing, but the reserve's future depends on increased awareness and protection. Visitors are encouraged to be mindful of their impact, pack out all waste, and report any environmental concerns. The presence of endangered species like the onça parda underscores the need for continued vigilance and preservation.
Navigating Access and Facilities
On-site facilities are notably lacking. There are no public restrooms, and the absence of official guides means visitors must rely on self-navigation. This can be challenging given the condition of some trails, which have been described as dirty, littered, and sometimes used by off-road vehicles, impacting the natural tranquility.
To make the most of your visit, it's highly recommended to research current access policies before you go. Confirming whether appointments are necessary for specific sites will prevent disappointment. Being prepared for a lack of amenities and respecting the natural environment by leaving no trace are crucial for a responsible visit.
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