Scalea BoatsPractical guide · Editorial review 20/10/2026
In this guide
About the trail
The Pico do Baepi trail is one of the most challenging hikes in Ilhabela and a great choice if you enjoy adventure, mountains and nature.
Inside Ilhabela State Park, Pico do Baepi rises to about 1,048 metres and offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Forest, the São Sebastião channel, the mainland mountains and part of the archipelago. It suits those who want to see a different side of the island beyond the beaches and are ready for a long uphill walk.
Key information
LocationItaguaçu, Ilhabela, SP
StartEnd of Rua Morro da Cruz
Summit altitudeAbout 1,048 metres
DistanceAbout 7.4 km, round trip
Average time5h30 to 6h of walking
DifficultyHard
TerrainAtlantic Forest, low vegetation and steep climbs
GuideAccredited environmental monitor required
BookingOnline, departures 7:00–12:00
Daily limit175 people per day
Time varies with fitness, terrain, weather and the group’s pace.
Scalea tourRent a boat just for your groupChoose the boat and the route at your own pace.See boats →Where does the trail start?
Access is in Itaguaçu, at the end of Rua Morro da Cruz. From the ferry, head north towards the centre. Rua Morro da Cruz starts by the Estátua dos Peixes (fish statue): turn right and follow it to the end.
The final stretch is steep. Plan your transport in advance, check parking and agree the exact meeting point and time with your monitor.
What is the route like?
Start in low vegetation
The walk begins in open ground with more sun exposure. Early on, a viewpoint looks over the São Sebastião channel. Reaching the viewpoint is not the same as finishing the trail.
Climbing through the Atlantic Forest
After the viewpoint, the trail enters the forest and the climb gets steeper, with steps, roots and uneven ground. The incline demands effort and attention throughout.
The reward at the top
At the summit, the panoramic view takes in the mountains, the channel and Ilhabela’s landscapes. You return the same way; take care on steep sections, where damp soil makes the descent slippery.
Scalea tourBeach tour by boatNorth or South route, full day. R$ 290 per person.See routes →How hard is it?
The trail is rated hard, mainly for its incline, length and the effort of going up and down. It is recommended for people with good fitness and some experience on uneven terrain.
If you are new to trekking, assess your fitness before choosing this hike. It is not an easy walk.
When is the best time?
Pick a day with settled weather and good visibility. Rain makes the ground slippery and raises the risk of falls; fog can hide the view from the top.
Start early, at the time agreed with your monitor, so you have time to climb, rest, enjoy the view and return safely. If the weather is poor, postpone.
What to bring
For a safer, more comfortable hike:
Avoid carrying unnecessary weight.
Scalea tourRent a boat just for your groupChoose the boat and the route at your own pace.See boats →Important tips
Do
- Check the weather forecast before you go.
- Confirm access rules and book in advance.
- Hike with the monitor required by the visiting rules.
- Go at your own pace and rest when needed.
- Stay with the group and on the marked path.
- Take extra care on the way down.
Avoid
- Hiking in the rain or on slippery ground.
- Feeding wild animals.
- Taking plants, rocks or other natural items.
- Leaving rubbish on the trail.
- Bringing pets.
Is it worth it?
Yes. The Pico do Baepi trail is a great choice for adventure in Ilhabela and for seeing the richness of the Atlantic Forest. Despite the effort, it brings you close to the forest and shows the island from a different angle.
Images: courtesy
Official information
Ilhabela State Park
- Phone: (12) 3896-2660
- Email: pe.ilhabela@fflorestal.sp.gov.br
- São Paulo State Protected Areas Guide (booking and rules)
Before hiking, confirm distance, duration, access rules and guiding requirements with the park administration, as they may change.
Add a day at sea
Explore Scalea’s sea experiences and choose the one that fits your itinerary.
Explore Scalea experiencesEditorial references
Editorial review: 20/10/2026.
- Fundação Florestal: Trilha do Pico do Baepi
- Prefeitura de Ilhabela: Trilhas de diferentes níveis de dificuldade (12/02/2026)
- Prefeitura de Ilhabela: Estrutura e orientação em trilhas (08/04/2026)
- São Paulo State Protected Areas Guide: Pico do Baepi trail (checked 20/10/2026)
Scalea tourBeach tour by boatNorth or South route, full day. R$ 290 per person.See routes →