Did you know that there is an official section of the Camino de Santiago in Brazil? On this hiking route, we'll walk a total of 22 km (13.6 mi), discovering the natural, cultural and spiritual richness of the north of the island of Santa Catarina.
Activity Details
At the indicated time, we'll meet in front of the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, in the Canasvieiras neighbourhood, to begin this hiking route along the Brazilian route of the Camino de Santiago, an official route recognised by the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, in Spain. Along its 22 km (13.6 mi), we'll cross trails, beaches and churches in an experience that combines spirituality, culture and nature.
We'll begin our hike along the shore of Canasvieiras, a quiet beach with a strong fishing tradition. We'll continue to the extensive Cachoeira do Bom Jesus beach, from where we'll enter an increasingly natural environment.
Arriving at Ponta das Canas, we'll come across the church of São Pedro, dedicated to the patron saint of fishermen. While admiring its façade, we'll learn more about the region's artisanal fishing and its traditions. We'll continue to Lagoinha beach, a true paradise surrounded by native vegetation and crystal clear waters.
From there, we'll begin our ascent to the Morro do Rapa, with an altitude of 160 m (524 ft). Along the way, we'll make stops to interpret the flora and fauna of the Atlantic Forest. You'll be surprised by what we see! During the ascent, we'll pass the northernmost point of the island of Santa Catarina, a gateway of stones and natural viewpoints that offer spectacular views. Be sure to snap some photos!
We'll then descend towards Brava beach, where we'll feel the contrast of the rough sea before entering the Morro das Feiticeiras. This stretch is full of thick vegetation and legends about witches and sorceresses, typical of Florianópolis folklore.
Our hike will continue until we reach the Praia dos Ingleses, where the Igreja de Nossa Senhora dos Navegantes awaits us, the oldest church along the Brazilian Camino de Santiago. We'll stop outside this sanctuary to reflect on the spirituality of the journey, hear tales of 17th-century pirates and learn about the founding of the city.
Finally, we'll arrive at the Igreja do Sagrado Coração de Jesus, where a small symbolic closing ceremony will take place, and you'll receive your pilgrim's credential. Here, we'll say goodbye after a total of 7 to 8 hours of activity.
