Cities that Follow the Path of the Sun

On this page, the Pilgrim Portal of Hope presents the route from Santana de Parnaíba to Águas de São Pedro, containing a brief description of each city along the Caminho do Sol.

🕊️ "The true wealth of a city lies in its

preservation of their stories".

🥾 The Path of the Sun: From Santana de Parnaíba to the Waters of São Pedro

🕊️ “I have taught you in the way of wisdom and led you in straight paths.” (Proverbs 4:11)

The Águas da Prata Branch is the most traditional and emblematic section of the Caminho da Fé, born from the desire to provide Brazilian pilgrims with a spiritual route similar to that of the Camino de Santiago de Compostela. This route is, at the same time, a journey of physical overcoming, inner encounter and deep devotion to the Patroness of Brazil, Our Lady of Aparecida.

Starting from the small and welcoming city of Águas da Prata, in the state of São Paulo, to the grand National Sanctuary of Aparecida, the pilgrim travels approximately 315 km, crossing the imposing Serra da Mantiqueira, one of the most beautiful and challenging regions of southeastern Brazil.

Along the way, the pilgrim passes through cities and villages full of hospitality and faith, such as Andradas, Serra dos Lima, Barra, Crisólia, Ouro Fino, Inconfidentes, Borda da Mata, Tocos do Moji, Estiva, Consolação, Paraisópolis, São Bento do Sapucaí, Luminosa, Campista, Campos do Jordão, Pindamonhangaba, Roseira and finally Aparecida, or Campos do Jordão, Gomeral/Pedrinhas, Potim and finally Aparecida. Each city, each church, each inn, each cross on the side of the road brings with it a testimony of faith and welcome.

The route is marked by:

🌄 Dirt roads that cut through mountains and plantations, revealing breathtaking landscapes.

🌉 Bridges, trails and forests, which invite silence and meditation.

🏞️ Asphalt sections, necessary to connect the dots, but always accompanied by clear signage: the famous yellow arrows and the Caminho da Fé logo.

🏔️ Demanding climbs and long descents through the mountains, especially when crossing the majestic Mantiqueira, where the body is tested and the spirit is strengthened.

At every step, the pilgrim is challenged to trust God more, to depend less on the superfluous and to rediscover the beauty of simplicity. Sleeping in humble lodgings, sharing meals with strangers and praying under the starry sky become transformative experiences.

In addition to the religious aspect, the Path promotes: physical and psychological health, integration with nature, development of local communities and a profound rediscovery of the essentials of life.

This branch is managed by the Associação dos Amigos do Caminho da Fé, responsible for the structuring, signage, maintenance and legal protection of the “Caminho da Fé” brand.

Following this path is not just a physical challenge: it is a true call to inner conversion. It is realizing that the backpack only carries what is necessary, and that the heart is what truly carries the dreams, the pains and the faith.

Discover the Details of Each of the Cities on the Path of the Sun

🕊️ "God said: Go out and stand on the mountain, in the presence of the Lord, for the Lord will pass by." (1 Kings 19, 11-12)

Santana - SP

Located on the border with Minas Gerais, Águas da Prata was born from the fame of its mineral waters with medicinal properties. It became a hydro-mineral resort in 1944 and is surrounded by beautiful landscapes of the Serra da Mantiqueira. It is the starting point of the Caminho da Fé and a place of welcome and blessings for pilgrims.

Pirapora do Bom Jesus - SP

Known as the "Land of Wine", Andradas has a strong Italian influence and agricultural tradition. It is known for its production of grapes, wines and ceramics. Its name pays homage to the poet José Bonifácio de Andrada e Silva. It is a hospitable city, with beautiful mountains and historic churches.

Cabreuva - SP

Small and charming, Inconfidentes is known for its textile tradition, especially the production of handmade rugs. The name refers to the Inconfidência Mineira, a symbol of the fight for freedom. It is a calm and welcoming spot on the pilgrims' route.

That - SP

Famous for its knitting and hospitality, Borda da Mata has a strong religious tradition. It is also the birthplace of Frei Galvão, the first Brazilian saint. Its hills and churches make up a typical setting of the inland Minas Gerais culture.

Jump - SP

Located in a peaceful mountainous region, Tocos do Moji is founded on family farming and faith. The city welcomes pilgrims with simplicity and serene landscapes. The name comes from the Mogi Guaçu River, which runs close to the region.

Elias Fausto - SP

Known as the “Land of Strawberries,” Estiva’s economy is based on agriculture and is rich in religious traditions. Its festivals and the affection shown to pilgrims make passing through the city a time of rest and sharing.

Capivari - SP

With just over a thousand inhabitants, it is one of the smallest towns on the route, but full of spirituality. The main church of Nossa Senhora da Consolação is one of the highlights. Its name inspires comfort and faith in those who pass by.

Mombuca -SP

The largest city in southern Minas Gerais among those that make up the Caminho da Fé, Paraisópolis combines tradition, culture and nature. It has beautiful historic farms, centuries-old churches and mountains. It is an important support and resupply point for pilgrims.

Piracicaba - SP

Luminosa is a district of Brazópolis, famous for its poetic name and beautiful landscapes. Located in the mountains, it is a place of rare natural beauty and great spiritual elevation. It welcomes pilgrims with peace, silence and abundant nature.

Waters of Saint Peter - SP

Known as the “Brazilian Switzerland”, Campos do Jordão is the highest city in Brazil. Its European architecture, mild climate and lush nature enchant visitors. It is one of the most striking and touristic passages on the Caminho da Fé. After all, the top of a mountain is the place where life finds the purest meaning of freedom.