You’ll feel the rush of Serra Gaúcha air as you ride your own quadricycle up to Morro Pelado with a local guide leading the way. Expect hands-on instruction, real conversation (and maybe some laughs), plus stops for photos and stories above wide green valleys. The helmet and goggles are included — all you need is curiosity and maybe a little courage.
You know that feeling when you’re not sure if you’re more excited or nervous? That’s how I felt strapping on the helmet at Apoema’s base in Serra Gaúcha. The guide — Paulo, I think, but he said to call him Paulinho — grinned and handed me goggles, then ran through the basics in this mix of Portuguese and gestures. I could smell eucalyptus somewhere nearby, sharp and clean. He made sure I understood every button and brake before we even started the quadricycle. There was a quick moment where I wondered if I’d look ridiculous — but honestly, everyone else seemed just as awkward in their helmets.
The first few meters were bumpy (I definitely jerked the throttle too hard), but after that it got fun fast. We followed Paulinho along these red-dirt tracks that cut through patches of pine forest and open fields. Sometimes it was quiet except for the engine and birds overhead; other times you’d catch laughter from someone behind you when they hit a rut. About halfway up to Morro Pelado, we stopped at this lookout spot — not crowded at all, just us and a couple cows watching from a distance. The view stretched out over rolling hills, misty in the morning light. Paulinho pointed out some old farmhouses down below and told a story about his grandfather working these lands — I only caught half of it, but it stuck with me anyway.
I didn’t expect how much I’d enjoy just standing there with my boots in the mud, breathing in that earthy scent after last night’s rain. It felt like time slowed down for a bit before we climbed back on the quads for the ride back. Honestly, I still think about that view sometimes when things get noisy back home.
The route covers 7 kilometers in total.
Yes, every quadricycle tour is accompanied by a trained local guide.
You’ll get a helmet and protective goggles; raincoats are available if needed.
No, children under 7 years old cannot participate.
The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant women or people with spinal or cardiovascular issues.
No hotel pickup is mentioned; tours start from Apoema’s base in Serra Gaúcha.
You need to contact the company via WhatsApp after purchase to confirm your time slot.
This specific 7km tour is for one person per quadricycle; other options may allow two riders.
Your day includes full instruction from an experienced local guide before setting off on your own quadricycle adventure through exclusive trails up to Morro Pelado. Safety gear like helmets and goggles comes standard, plus disposable raincoats if weather turns wet — so you’re covered whether it’s sunny or drizzly out there.
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