How to get from Sao Paulo to Campos do Jordao

Brazil · Mountains & Hiking Regions · Nature & Outdoors · Campos do Jordão · São Paulo

Getting from São Paulo to Campos do Jordão is a scenic 2.5–3 hour escape into the Mantiqueira mountains, and you can choose between direct buses, self-drive, guided day tours, or private transfers depending on your budget and how independent you want your trip to be.

At A Glance (Sao Paulo to Campos do Jordao)

Mode Duration Best For
🚌 Intercity Bus (São Paulo Tietê → Campos do Jordão) ~3h on the road (+30–45m to reach Tietê) Most travelers, low cost, simple
🏷️ Cost: ~BRL 70–110 one-way, depending on date and bus type (multiple daily departures with companies like Pássaro Marron from Tietê Bus Terminal)
🚗 Self-Drive / Rental Car (Via SP-070 & SP-123) ~2.5–3h (traffic & weather dependent) Flexibility, stops en route, small groups
🏷️ Cost: Fuel + tolls ~BRL 120–200 round-trip; car rental from around ~BRL 150–250/day via services like São Paulo car rentals
🧭 Guided Day Tour / Shared Shuttle ~10–12h round-trip (full-day excursion) First-timers, no driving, sightseeing included
🏷️ Cost: Typically from ~BRL 500–1,500 per person depending on small-group vs. private tours – see options under Option #3
🚐 Private Transfer / Taxi / Ride-hailing ~2.5–3h door-to-door Door-to-door comfort, groups with luggage
🏷️ Cost: Roughly from ~BRL 800–1,800 per vehicle each way depending on vehicle size and season; compare pre-booked services with local ride-hailing apps like Uber or 99

Which Option or Route Should You Choose?

  • Fastest / Most Convenient door-to-door: Choose Option #4 — Private Transfer / Taxi / Ride-hailing if you want to be picked up at your hotel or airport and dropped directly at your accommodation in Campos do Jordão. This is ideal if you have lots of luggage, are traveling with kids, or arrive late at night.
  • Best overall for most travelers (price vs. comfort): Option #1 — Direct Bus from Terminal Tietê is generally the easiest and most economical, with multiple departures per day, assigned seats, and a straightforward route.
  • Most flexible / Scenic road trip: If you enjoy driving and want to stop at viewpoints or nearby towns, go with Option #2 — Self-Drive / Rental Car. You can time your departure to avoid traffic, stop at roadside mirantes, and easily explore nearby attractions.
  • No-planning sightseeing package: For travelers who want everything arranged, including guided visits to Capivari, Ducha de Prata, Amantikir Park and more, pick Option #3 — Guided Day Tour / Shared Shuttle. Many tours include hotel pickup in São Paulo and a curated itinerary.
  • Already staying near Guarulhos or Congonhas airports: A private transfer or guided tour with airport pickup can save you the hassle of crossing the city to Tietê terminal first.

How to Book and Practical Tips

  • Book bus tickets in advance in high season: Winter weekends (June–August) and public holidays sell out quickly. Use Brazilian bus platforms or buy in advance directly from companies like Pássaro Marron that operate between São Paulo (Terminal Tietê) and Campos do Jordão.
  • Reserve accommodation early: Campos do Jordão is one of Brazil’s most popular winter destinations. Book your Campos do Jordão hotels and pousadas well in advance for July weekends, festivals, and long holidays.
  • Consider car rental if traveling as a group: For 3–4 people, renting a vehicle in São Paulo and driving can be cost-effective. Compare offers on São Paulo car rentals, especially if you’re already arriving at GRU or CGH.
  • Use tours if you don’t want to drive: If mountain driving is not your thing, look at Campos do Jordão day trips and guided tours from São Paulo, which bundle transport, guide, and main attractions.
  • Store luggage in São Paulo if needed: If you’re between check-out and a night bus or transfer, you can drop bags near Tietê using services like Radical Storage near Tietê Bus Terminal, then explore the city hands-free.
  • Check weather & road conditions: Even though snow is rare, temperatures can drop close to freezing in winter and fog is common. Always check local forecasts and, if driving, allow extra time on SP-123 for fog, rain, and slow trucks.
  • Leverage multi-day planning tools: For inspiration and deals on activities, transport, and hotels around Campos do Jordão, you can browse overviews like the Campos do Jordão travel guide on Trip.com.
  • Treat it as a proper mountain trip: Bring layers, a light rain jacket, and comfortable shoes for cobblestone streets and park trails, no matter which transport option you choose.

🚌 Option #1 — Direct Bus from São Paulo (Most Popular, Good Value)

Low cost Central terminals Fixed timetable

  • Overview: Frequent intercity buses run from Terminal Rodoviário do Tietê in São Paulo to the Campos do Jordão Bus Terminal. The trip is about 170–180 km and usually takes around 3 hours, climbing into the Serra da Mantiqueira.
  • Timings & frequency: Buses typically depart from early morning into the evening, with several departures per day. Travel time is around 3 hours, but can be slightly longer on holiday weekends or in heavy traffic.
  • How to book (with price): Expect to pay roughly BRL 70–110 one-way in standard class. You can:
    • Buy tickets online via Brazilian bus search platforms (BuscaOnibus, ClickBus, etc.) and then complete purchase with the operating company.
    • Purchase directly from companies like Pássaro Marron at Tietê or online on their own channels.
    • Arrive at Tietê 30–60 minutes early to buy at the counters on quiet weekdays (not recommended on winter weekends).
  • Pros: Cheapest comfortable option; no need to drive; frequent departures; scenic route; central bus terminals at both ends, with easy taxi or app-based rides to hotels.
  • Cons: Fixed departure times; you need to reach Terminal Tietê first; limited luggage space compared with a private car; tickets can sell out in peak season.
  • When this makes sense: Perfect for solo travelers or couples on a budget, and anyone who prefers public transport over driving mountain roads.
  • Official & useful websites: For terminal information, maps, and services, see the official Terminal Tietê website. For general information about Campos do Jordão as a tourist town, consult the municipal tourism pages on the Prefeitura de Campos do Jordão.

Step-by-step: Direct Bus from São Paulo

  1. Plan your travel date and time: Decide whether you want to arrive in Campos do Jordão in the morning (better for sightseeing) or evening (better if you’re checking straight into your hotel).
  2. Search bus departures: Use a Brazilian bus search site to check schedules and prices for São Paulo (Rodoviária do Tietê) → Campos do Jordão, filtering by your preferred time and bus company.
  3. Purchase your ticket: Complete your booking online or buy directly from the bus company’s counter at Tietê. Keep a digital and/or printed copy of your ticket and your ID or passport.
  4. Reach Terminal Tietê: Take the metro to Portuguesa–Tietê station (Line 1 – Blue), which connects directly into the terminal, or use a taxi/ride-hailing app from your hotel or airport.
  5. Check your platform: Inside Tietê, follow the signs for long-distance buses and check the departure boards for your company and platform number. Allow time for security checks and boarding.
  6. Board and enjoy the ride: Store larger luggage in the under-bus hold, keep valuables with you, and enjoy the changing scenery as you leave São Paulo’s suburbs and climb into the mountains.
  7. Arrival in Campos do Jordão: At the Campos do Jordão Bus Terminal, you can take a short taxi or app-based ride (Uber/99 where available) or a local bus to your accommodation in Capivari or other neighborhoods.

Getting to the main embarking points (Terminal Tietê)

  • From central São Paulo / Avenida Paulista: Use the metro (often Line 2 Green → Line 1 Blue) to reach Portuguesa–Tietê station, which connects directly into the bus terminal, or take an Uber/99 taxi if carrying large luggage.
  • From Guarulhos (GRU) Airport: Options include airport buses to Tietê, regular taxis, ride-hailing apps, or pre-booked airport transfers. If you prefer a pre-arranged ride, you can use services such as Welcome Pickups in São Paulo or book in advance with platforms like GetTransfer for São Paulo.
  • From Congonhas (CGH) Airport: Use a taxi, Uber/99, or airport bus into the metro network, then connect to Line 1 – Blue and ride to Portuguesa–Tietê.
  • Luggage and waiting time: If you have a long gap between arrival and bus departure, consider storing bags near Tietê using services like Radical Storage’s Tietê locations, then grabbing a meal in or near the terminal.
  • Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚗 Option #2 — Self-Drive / Rental Car (Most Flexible & Scenic)

Flexible Great for groups Mountain driving

  • Overview: Driving from São Paulo to Campos do Jordão is straightforward and scenic, using a combination of urban expressways and mountain roads. Many drivers take the Ayrton Senna / Carvalho Pinto route and then climb the SP-123 (Rodovia Floriano Rodrigues Pinheiro) into the city.
  • Route & duration: The journey is around 170–180 km and usually takes 2.5–3 hours in normal traffic. Allow extra time on Friday evenings, long weekends, or holiday periods when traffic leaving São Paulo can be heavy.
  • How to book (with price):
    • Car rental: Daily rentals in São Paulo typically start around BRL 150–250 per day for a basic car, depending on season and availability. Compare offers on São Paulo car rentals or pick up a car directly at GRU/CGH via airport rental desks.
    • Fuel & tolls: Fuel for a round-trip is usually BRL 120–200 depending on your vehicle and route, plus highway tolls on Ayrton Senna / Carvalho Pinto (keep some cash or a card handy).
    • Alternative: motorbike / scooter: Confident riders sometimes rent a motorcycle or scooter in São Paulo and ride to Campos do Jordão. You can compare options on platforms like motorcycle rental in São Paulo, but be aware that the route includes highways and mountain curves.
  • Pros: Maximum flexibility; easy to stop at viewpoints, Outlet centers, or nearby towns; ideal for visiting multiple attractions and staying outside Capivari; convenient with luggage and kids.
  • Cons: Tolls and fuel add up; São Paulo traffic can be intense; fog and rain on the mountain road require cautious driving; parking fees in Capivari can be high in peak season.
  • When this makes sense: Best for small groups or families comfortable with Brazilian driving conditions who want to explore at their own pace.
  • Official & useful websites: For broader tourism context and road-based itineraries in the state, see the São Paulo state tourism platform’s page on the tourist municipality of Campos do Jordão. For local info and advisories, consult the Prefeitura de Campos do Jordão.

Step-by-step: Self-Drive / Rental Car

  1. Arrange your vehicle: Reserve a car online before arrival, especially in peak season. If you’re landing at GRU or CGH, it’s often easiest to pick up your car directly at the airport.
  2. Pick up and inspect: When collecting the car, check for existing scratches, confirm insurance coverage, and ensure you have a charged phone with navigation apps (Google Maps, Waze) and offline maps if possible.
  3. Exit São Paulo: From central São Paulo or the airports, follow signs towards Rodovia Ayrton Senna / Carvalho Pinto. This combination often offers a smoother drive than some older routes, but your GPS may suggest alternatives depending on traffic.
  4. Take SP-123 into Campos do Jordão: Near Taubaté, you’ll connect to SP-123 (Rodovia Floriano Rodrigues Pinheiro), a scenic mountain road with viewpoints and rest stops. Drive carefully on curves and be alert for fog.
  5. Arrive and park: In Campos do Jordão, follow signs to your accommodation. In Capivari, look for official car parks (particularly on busy weekends). Many hotels and pousadas include on-site parking.
  6. Return trip: On departure day, allow extra time to descend the mountain and pass any traffic around São José dos Campos or the São Paulo metro area, especially on Sunday evenings.

Getting to the main embarking points (Rental Locations & City Exits)

  • Airport pick-up (GRU/CGH/VCP): If flying into São Paulo, consider collecting your rental car at the airport. Compare prices and pick-up options on Guarulhos airport car rentals or the equivalent pages for Congonhas and Viracopos.
  • Downtown / Paulista rental offices: Many big brands have offices around Avenida Paulista and central districts. Booking online through a platform like São Paulo city car rentals gives you an overview of neighborhood pick-up points.
  • Leaving the city: From most central neighborhoods, you’ll head towards Marginal Tietê or Marginal Pinheiros and then follow signs for the Ayrton Senna or Dutra/Carvalho Pinto corridors. Use real-time navigation for the least congested option.
  • Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🧭 Option #3 — Guided Day Tour / Shared Shuttle (No-Planning Needed)

Guided Hotel pickup Higher cost

  • Overview: Guided day trips bundle transport from São Paulo, a local guide, and visits to key sights in Campos do Jordão such as Capivari, Ducha de Prata, Parque Capivari (cable car), or Amantikir Park. This is ideal if you want a “Brazilian Switzerland” experience without worrying about logistics.
  • Duration & pace: Most tours last 10–12 hours, with early morning pick-up in São Paulo and evening return. Expect a long but well-structured day with several stops.
  • How to book (with price):
  • Pros: Zero logistics; hotel or airport pickup often included; guide commentary; efficient use of a single day if you’re short on time in Brazil.
  • Cons: Less flexibility in schedule; higher per-person cost than bus or self-drive; limited free time in Campos do Jordão on some tours.
  • When this makes sense: Great if you’re in São Paulo for business or a short city break and want a one-day mountain escape without renting a car or managing bus schedules.
  • Official & useful websites: To complement your guided experience and check local events or festivals, refer to official pages such as the municipal tourism section at the Conselho Municipal de Turismo (Comtur) and broader state-level content via São Paulo State Tourism.

Step-by-step: Guided Day Tour / Shared Shuttle

  1. Choose your style: Decide if you prefer a small-group shared tour (cheaper, social) or a private excursion (more customizable).
  2. Compare itineraries: Check what each tour includes – some focus on city highlights and Capivari, while others add natural attractions like Amantikir Park, Pedra do Baú viewpoints, or extended time at Parque Capivari.
  3. Book online: Reserve your spot through tour marketplaces such as GetYourGuide’s Campos do Jordão guided tours or other reputable platforms, paying attention to pickup areas and cancellation terms.
  4. Confirm pickup details: After booking, provide your hotel or apartment address in São Paulo. Many operators pick up from central areas (Paulista, Centro, Itaim, Jardins); if you’re staying elsewhere, you may be asked to meet at a central point.
  5. Prepare for a full day out: Bring a light jacket, comfortable shoes, cash or card for lunch and entrance fees (like cable car tickets), and a power bank for your phone.
  6. Enjoy the day and return: After a full day in the mountains, you’ll be dropped back at your pickup location in São Paulo in the evening.

Getting to the main embarking points (Hotel Pickup & Tour Meeting Spots)

  • Central hotel pickup: Many tours include pickup at hotels along Avenida Paulista, in Centro, or in popular districts like Jardins and Vila Mariana. Check the pickup radius before booking.
  • Meeting points: If your accommodation is outside the pickup zone, the operator may designate a central meeting spot (e.g., near Paulista Avenue or a metro station). Use the metro or a ride-hailing app to get there.
  • Pre-tour airport pickup: Some private tours and transfers will pick you up directly from GRU or CGH; if you want to combine arrival and tour, confirm this explicitly when booking.
  • Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚐 Option #4 — Private Transfer / Taxi / Ride-hailing (Door-to-Door Comfort)

Door-to-door Great with luggage Higher cost

  • Overview: Door-to-door private transfers let you travel directly between your hotel or airport in São Paulo and your accommodation in Campos do Jordão. This can be arranged via dedicated transfer platforms, local driver services, or on-demand ride-hailing apps.
  • Duration: Similar to driving yourself, you can expect around 2.5–3 hours on the road, more in heavy traffic leaving São Paulo or on holiday weekends.
  • How to book (with price):
    • Pre-booked transfers: International platforms allow you to book a vehicle and driver in advance. In São Paulo, services like Welcome Pickups for São Paulo and GetTransfer in Brazil can arrange intercity rides; prices vary widely but often start from around BRL 800–1,800 per car depending on vehicle type and date.
    • Ride-hailing apps: In Brazil, Uber and 99 are commonly used in major cities, including São Paulo. While not all drivers will accept a long intercity trip, you can sometimes negotiate this type of journey; price is metered/dynamic and may be comparable to or higher than some pre-booked options.
    • Hotel-arranged drivers: Many upscale hotels and pousadas can arrange trusted drivers for you; rates are often similar to private tour prices but with custom pickup times.
  • Pros: Maximum comfort; no need to navigate; ideal with lots of luggage or limited mobility; flexible departure times (including very early or late).
  • Cons: Significantly more expensive than the bus; limited availability at the last minute during peak season; traffic risk is the same as any car-based option.
  • When this makes sense: Perfect if you’re a family or group splitting the cost, arriving on a late-night flight, or you simply want a smooth door-to-door experience without driving yourself.
  • Official & useful websites: While private transfers are mostly run by private companies, you can cross-check general travel advice and safety tips on official foreign-travel advisory sites (for example, your own country’s travel advisory for Brazil) and complement that with local tourism information from the Prefeitura de Campos do Jordão.

Step-by-step: Private Transfer / Taxi / Ride-hailing

  1. Define your pickup point: Decide whether you want to leave from your São Paulo hotel, a specific neighborhood (e.g., Paulista or Vila Madalena), or directly from the airport (GRU/CGH/VCP).
  2. Compare services: Obtain quotes from pre-booking platforms such as Welcome Pickups, GetTransfer, and local agencies, and compare them with an estimated Uber/99 fare for the same route.
  3. Book your ride: Once you’ve chosen a provider, confirm your pickup time, address, and number of passengers/bags. Ensure you have a way to contact the driver (in-app chat, WhatsApp, etc.).
  4. Meet your driver: On the day, meet at the agreed spot – usually hotel reception, arrivals hall, or a specific curbside area. Confirm your name and destination before getting in.
  5. Travel and arrival: Sit back and enjoy the drive. On arrival in Campos do Jordão, the driver will drop you directly at your hotel or other specified address.

Getting to the main embarking points (Hotels & Airports)

  • Hotel pickups in São Paulo: Most transfer services cover popular neighborhoods; if you’re staying outside the central area, you may need to pay a supplement or meet the driver at a more central address.
  • Airport pickups: Pre-booked transfers usually specify meeting points inside the terminal. Check your confirmation email for exact details and instructions on what to do if your flight is delayed.
  • Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

FAQ (Sao Paulo to Campos do Jordao)

How long does it take to travel from São Paulo to Campos do Jordão?
For most travelers, the journey takes around 2.5–3 hours by car or private transfer, and roughly 3 hours by direct bus from Terminal Tietê to the Campos do Jordão Bus Terminal in normal conditions. Allow extra time when leaving São Paulo on Friday evenings, before public holidays, or during major events.

What is the cheapest way to get from São Paulo to Campos do Jordão?
The cheapest comfortable option is almost always the direct intercity bus from Terminal Tietê. One-way fares typically range from BRL 70–110 depending on time, class, and how early you book. If you’re traveling as a group, renting a car and splitting costs can also be economical, especially for a weekend trip.

Is it safe to drive from São Paulo to Campos do Jordão?
Yes, this is a very common drive for locals, but you should still exercise normal caution. Highways leaving São Paulo can be busy, and the SP-123 mountain road has curves, trucks, occasional fog, and changing weather. Drive cautiously, avoid speeding, keep headlights on in low visibility, and avoid driving when very tired. In winter, pack warm clothes and check weather forecasts before departure.

Do I need to rent a car, or can I rely on public transport in Campos do Jordão?
You do not need a car, but it can be convenient. If you arrive by bus, you can use local buses, taxis, and ride-hailing apps where available, and many hotels are walkable to Capivari’s restaurants and shops. However, a car (or guided tour) is useful for reaching scattered attractions like Amantikir Park or viewpoints without worrying about timetables.

When is the best time to visit Campos do Jordão?
Campos do Jordão is a year-round destination, but its most famous season is winter (June–August), when temperatures drop, chocolate and fondue restaurants are busy, and the city hosts events like the Winter Festival. Weekends and holidays can be very crowded and more expensive, so consider weekday visits or shoulder seasons for fewer crowds and slightly lower prices.

Can I visit Campos do Jordão as a day trip from São Paulo?
Yes. Many people do a long day trip by guided tour or private car. You’ll spend about 6 hours total on the road and several hours exploring. If time allows, staying one or two nights in Campos do Jordão is more relaxing and lets you enjoy evenings in Capivari, local breweries, and park visits without rushing.

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