Brazilian Way Santiago de Compostela: 22 km Pilgrimage Walk

Four beaches, two forest trails, three churches: a full-day pilgrimage walk across Florianópolis

The Brazilian Way from Santiago de Compostela is a 22 km guided walk across Florianópolis that combines the spirit of pilgrimage with the cultural identity of the island. You cross four beaches, hike two trails through the Atlantic Forest, and visit three churches while learning about the island's colonization, fortresses, traditions and legends from a specialized guide. The route takes approximately 10 hours and includes pilgrim credentials.

Step-by-step itinerary

Hike Brazilian Way route in Florianópolis

• Start first 3 km trail with ascension
• Enjoy views from Mirantes
• Cross first beach at sunrise
• Walk along Canasvieiras beach and Cachoeira banks
• Visit second church by the beach
• Walk urban stretch and cross Praia da Lagoinha do Norte
• Hike second 2 km trail between Praia Brava and Praia dos Ingleses
• Rest and buy snacks at Praia Brava
• Cross Praia dos Ingleses beach, 4 km walk
• Visit third church at end of Praia dos Ingleses
• Walk final 2 km urban stretch to finish path

The experience

You start in the early morning and climb the first trail, a 3 km ascent that opens onto three viewpoints: one to Praia Brava at the northern end of the island, one to Canasvieiras, and one across the water. This is the most demanding stretch, but it sets the day's rhythm. From there you descend to Praia Brava itself, cross it to the second church at the water's edge, then continue along Canasvieiras beach before cutting inland through the city to Praia da Lagoinha do Norte.

The second trail connects Praia Brava and Praia dos Ingleses in 2 km of forest walking. When you reach Praia dos Ingleses, you have the longest beach stretch ahead: nearly 4 km from Morro das Feiticeiras across the sand and dunes to the third church, which marks the end of the coastal section. A final 2 km urban walk completes the route. Your guide shares stories about the island's Portuguese colonization, the fortresses that once stood here, and the communities you pass through, framing the walk as both a physical journey and a reflection on place and belonging.

The route takes about 10 hours total. You'll need to bring your own food and water, though there are spots along the way to buy supplies. Public transportation runs near the starting point if you need it to reach the trailhead. Pilgrim credentials are included, marking your passage through the Brazilian Way.

What’s included

• Specialized guide in English or Spanish.
• pilgrim credentials marking your passage through the Brazilian Way.
• access to four beaches, two Atlantic Forest trails, and three churches across the route.

Options for this experience

3 options

Walking the Camino from Santiago de Compostela, the Brazilian WayGuide in English or Spanish · No fixed time

SpanishNo fixed time

EnglishNo fixed time

You pick the guide language when booking.

You'll see the exact price of each option when you check availability.See dates and prices

Before you book

Days and timesEvery day

GroupPrivate

Live guideEnglish and Spanish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends at a different place from where it starts.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 5 days ago

Good to know

Moderate physical effortPublic transport nearbyNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by Família na Trilha

Is this one for you?This walk suits travelers with a moderate to good fitness level who want a full day of movement and storytelling rather than a quick sightseeing loop. The 10-hour commitment and 22 km distance mean you're committing to the rhythm of the pilgrimage itself, not sampling highlights in an afternoon.

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Top questions

What languages is the tour guided in?

Live guide in English and Spanish.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

How much of the Brazilian Way is beach walking versus forest trail?

The route crosses four beaches totaling roughly 10 km of sand walking, including the longest stretch along Praia dos Ingleses. Two forest trails account for 5 km combined, with the rest on urban paths and roads connecting the sections.

What's the hardest part of the walk?

The first trail is the most challenging: a 3 km climb at the start of the day with steep ascents. It's the reason the operator notes you should have at least moderate physical fitness, but it's also the section that gives you the best views across the northern end of the island.

Will the guide explain what I'm seeing at each church?

Yes. Your specialized guide shares stories about the island's colonization, its fortresses, traditions and legends as you walk. The three churches are stops where the guide interprets their place in the island's history and the pilgrimage route itself.

Can I do this walk if I'm not very fit?

The operator recommends at least moderate physical fitness because of the 3 km uphill first trail and the total distance of 22 km over 10 hours. It's not a casual stroll, but it's designed as a full-day experience, not a sprint.

What do I need to bring?

Bring your own food and water for the day. There are spots along the route, particularly at Praia Brava, where you can buy supplies. Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for both forest trails and sand, and bring sun protection for the beach sections.