Pico do Urubu, Mountain summit in Serra do Itapeti, Brazil
Pico do Urubu is a mountain summit in the Serra do Itapeti range, in the state of São Paulo, Brazil, reaching about 1,169 meters. The peak lies within a protected area covered by dense Atlantic Forest, with steep slopes and often wet trails leading to the top.
The peak was named by local inhabitants who noticed black vultures circling above it, and the Portuguese word for vulture, urubu, became its enduring name. For generations, the mountain stood as a natural reference point for communities living in the surrounding lowlands.
The trail up to this summit is popular among Brazilian skyrunning athletes who use the steep terrain for competition training. It is common to encounter runners on the path, especially on weekends.
The main trailhead is near Vila Santista Club in Mogi das Cruzes, though other access points exist on the mountain. Sturdy footwear and enough water are recommended, as the terrain is steep and the ground often wet.
From the top, it is possible to see both remaining Atlantic Forest and the sprawl of São Paulo at the same time. This side-by-side view of forest and city, seen from a natural summit, is rare in the region.
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