São Luiz do Paraitinga

São Luiz do Paraitinga is a municipality in the Paraíba Valley, covering roughly 730 square kilometers between the São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro metropolitan areas. The landscape consists of pastures and forests, with parts protected by Serra do Mar State Park.

The municipality was founded in 1769 and grew to become one of Brazil's twelve most important cities by 1873. This rapid development marked its emergence as a significant regional center.

The town preserves around 450 colonial-era buildings that reflect the prosperity from coffee farming and gold mining in past centuries. Walking through the streets, you see this historical architecture woven into daily life today.

The region sits conveniently between two major metropolitan areas, making it accessible from both directions. It is worth visiting year-round, though rainy seasons may affect road conditions and outdoor activities.

A devastating flood in 2010 left its mark on the region and prompted the creation of a local network focused on sustainable development. This event reshaped how the community approaches planning and growth.

Location: São Paulo

Inception: 1769

Elevation above the sea: 741 m

Shares border with: Taubaté, Cunha, Lagoinha, Natividade da Serra, Redenção da Serra, Ubatuba

Website: http://saoluizdoparaitinga.sp.gov.br

GPS coordinates: -23.22194,-45.31000

Latest update: December 12, 2025 09:07