Ski Mountain Park Tours

There's rarely snow in Brazil, but you can still ski or snowboard the dry slopes at São Roque’s Ski Mountain Park, set in the hills overlooking the wild landscapes of the Atlantic Forest. With two dry slopes made of polyethylene mats, plus an ice skating rink, ropes course, and archery, it’s an ideal destination for a family day out.

Choose to book a combined pass, which includes free time at most attractions, plus 30 minutes on the ski and snowboard runs—or pay a la carte. Ride the chairlift and enjoy skiing down slopes of either 328 feet (100 meters) or 1,312 feet (400 meters); follow the nature trail through the forest; hit the ice skating rink; or try out the climbing wall, zip line, and archery range. Extras include paintballing and horseback riding.

The Ski Mountain Park is located three miles (five kilometers) north of São Roque, just off the Castello Branco and Raposo Tavares highways. There is no public transport to the park, but you can take a taxi from town, and some hotels and tours provide shuttle transfers. The park is about 45 miles (70 kilometers) west of Sao Paulo or an about 1.5-hour drive, making it possible to visit on a day trip.

The park is open year-round on weekends and holidays; in peak period (January and July), it’s open Tuesday through Sunday. Opening hours are mid morning to early evening.

With a tropical climate and year-round sunshine, Brazil isn’t a country associated with winter sports. However, there are a few attractions where you can experience "winter" while the sun shines. Head north to Gramado, where Snowland has indoor ski slopes and snow tubing, and visit nearby Santa's Village to meet the Brazilian Santa and admire the ice sculptures at Captain Frosty World (Parque Tematico Mundo Gelado). If you head to Iguassu Falls, try the sub-zero Icebar Brazil.