FAQ Pedra do Sino Trekking Expedition

1. Why should I do this hike?
   The Pedra do Sino Trekking Expedition, located in the Serra dos Órgãos National Park, is an unforgettable experience for those seeking adventure and breathtaking landscapes. At 2,275 meters altitude, it’s the highest peak in the range, offering incredible panoramic views stretching from Guanabara Bay to Vale do Paraíba.
2. What’s included in this expedition?
   Guide, meals, camping accommodation, park fees, first aid kit, remote expedition monitoring, personal accident insurance, collective first aid kit, satellite tracking.
3. What meals are included?
   01 dinner (Day 1)
   01 breakfast (Day 2)
4. What equipment/items are mandatory?
   Description available on the website.
5. Does it include/is safety equipment required?
   We provide collective safety equipment.
6. How much time/km per day? What’s the total km?
   Day 1 – 5 to 7 hours – 15 km;
   Day 2 – 4 to 6 hours – 15 km
7. What are the main attractions and viewpoints along the trail?
   The hike begins at the park headquarters in Teresópolis, passing by points of interest such as Barragem do Rio Beija-Flor and various natural viewpoints like Pedra da Baleia or São Pedro, Pedra da Cruz, and waterfalls.
8. What are the departure dates?
   Every day except Mondays.
9. What type of accommodation is available?
   Camping in double tents.
10. How long are the stops during each activity?
    To be arranged.
11. Are entrance tickets included?
    Yes.
12. What’s the meeting point?
    Teresópolis Bus Station – 8:00 am;
    Serra dos Órgãos National Park (Teresópolis entrance) – 09:00 am
13. What’s the minimum number of people required?
    From 1 participant.
14. Is it private?
    It can be private; consult beforehand.
15. Is it accessible?
    No.
16. Which biomes are visited during the expedition?
    Atlantic Rainforest.
17. What’s the best time to visit?
    The park is open year-round, but the best period is winter (May to October), considered “mountaineering season.” During this period, rainfall and risks from storms and lightning are reduced, and temperatures are more pleasant.
18. How does carbon offsetting work?
    Your purchase supports projects associated with Sustainable Travel International, which not only reduce carbon emissions but also support one or more of the following causes: forests and biodiversity, clean and efficient energy, coastal blue carbon, and local communities.
19. Is there an age limit?
    No.
20. Are vaccinations required?
    No.
21. What sustainable practices are followed?
    Minimum Impact Policy: Follow the Serra dos Órgãos National Park rules, such as avoiding campfires, not collecting plants or rocks, and respecting local wildlife.
    Waste Management: All waste generated must be collected and carried out to proper disposal points, following the “Leave No Trace” principle.
    Use of Designated Camping Areas: Overnight stays occur in shelters or specific areas, avoiding degradation of natural areas.
    Water Treatment: Water consumption from natural sources is treated with filters or tablets to prevent contamination and reduce plastic bottle usage.
    Responsible Tourism: Qualified guides promote environmental education, encouraging good practices and ecosystem respect.
22. Is there mobile phone signal? Is internet available?
    Most of the trek does not have cellphone coverage; however, certain specific points do receive signal. Guides will inform the group about these spots.
23. What are the main challenges of the expedition?
    Terrain challenges: The Pedra do Sino Trekking Expedition involves long hikes, steep ascents and descents, and uneven trails.
    Fatigue: Several hours of hiking per day can cause extreme tiredness, especially if you’re unaccustomed.
    Dehydration: The hot, humid climate increases the risk of dehydration if you don’t consume enough water.
24. Is there a risk of accidents?
    As with any adventure activity, this trek carries inherent risks such as weather conditions, falls, sprains, among others.
25. How reliable are your guides?
    Our commitment is to minimize all possible risks; therefore, we work with highly qualified and trained guides, along with renowned partners who provide safety equipment.
26. Do guides have first aid training?
    Yes. Guides are trained in wilderness first aid.
27. Should I bring food?
    We recommend bringing quick snacks of your choice for the trail, such as cereal or chocolate bars, nuts, dried fruits, and isotonic drinks.
28. I’m vegetarian/vegan/have dietary restrictions. Are included meals suitable?
    Yes, during registration you can indicate your dietary restrictions, and we’ll inform the guide.
29. How many guides per person?
    We provide 1 guide per every 3 people in the group.
30. Do you rent equipment like tents, sleeping bags, mats, trekking poles?
    Tents, sleeping bags, and mats can be lent at no additional cost. Trekking poles aren’t available, but makeshift poles can be found along the trail.
31. How do you guarantee safety regarding weather conditions?
    We closely monitor weather conditions near the expedition date. Our team follows weather changes almost daily, and if there is a risk due to rain, the expedition is canceled. Client and team safety is always our top priority.
32. Is there access to water along the way?
    There are some water sources along Pedra do Sino Trekking Expedition, but we don’t recommend their use. Water can be replenished at the shelters.