São Paulo: Day Trips

Brotas The town of Brotas is an oasis for ecotourists. Contact tour operator Eco Açao to set up activities like trekking, horseback riding, canyoning, and rafting. Eco Açao, 150 miles from São Paulo; www.ecoacao.com.br
hiking | biking | outdoors | horseback riding

Guarapiranga Golf & Country Club Golf, which is growing in Brazil, owes its popularity to the large Japanese expatriate community. Most clubs are private, but visitors can get starting times at the rainforest-situated Guarapiranga course. Estrada do Jaceguava; 011-55-11-5922-1000; www.guarapirangagolf.com.br
golf

São Sebastião Head to the state’s north coast for 62 miles of sun-kissed beaches. 134 miles from São Paulo; www.saosebastiao.sp.gov.br
beach

Serra da Cantareira It’s hard to believe, but this lush, green forest is within city limits. Come here to walk, bike, or horseback ride. Haras Cantareira, 30 minutes by car from downtown São Paulo; 011-55-11-4485-1244; www.harascantareira.com.br
hiking | biking | outdoors | horseback riding