Because of the distances involved, the minimum tour is 3 days, enough to see the main attractions. For a fuller experience — more attractions and time to enjoy the place — we suggest 4- or 5-day tours. We also have 1- or 2-day routes for experienced hikers seeking a high level of difficulty; ask us.

The trail into the Vale do Pati can be accessed from the village of Guiné (11 km of trail), Vale do Capão (22 km) or Andaraí (14 km). For first-timers, we recommend Guiné — the shortest (11 km) and stunningly beautiful. Reaching the Guiné trailhead requires your own car or a hired vehicle from Lençóis, Mucugê or Vale do Capão. On our 3-, 4- and 5-day packages you only need to reach the town of Palmeiras — we'll have a car to take you to the trailhead, already included.

The Vale do Pati has different difficulty levels, but overall it can be considered a moderate/hard trail, and anyone in good physical condition can do it. You walk about 12 km a day, on flat stretches but also climbs and descents. For the more adventurous, we have tailor-made high-difficulty itineraries — ask us.

The Vale do Pati is home to a traditional community, historically tied to food production for the old mining settlements and the communities around it. After the National Park was created in 1985, the Patizeiros adapted to host visitors in their homes and provide meals. The facilities are rustic but comfortable and offer a chance to mingle with other visitors and get a taste of the local culture.

* For wild-camping itineraries, ask us!

The guide is a decisive factor in the experience: their leadership enhances the journey and safeguards the hikers and the conservation area. Our guides follow minimum-impact criteria and are certified in mountain leadership (CMC) and first aid, with deep knowledge of the region's history, geology, fauna and flora.