Serra Gaúcha: Quadricycle Morro Pelado Tour & Local Guide

Summary

Quadricycle ride through Serra Gaúcha’s wild trails and Morro Pelado views

You’ll feel every bump and breeze as you ride a quadricycle through Serra Gaúcha’s trails to Morro Pelado with a local guide leading the way. Expect hands-on training, safety gear included, and real stories from people who know these hills by heart. The view at the top is worth every muddy splash—and might stay with you longer than you think.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is our guide, Paulo, grinning as he handed me a helmet that still smelled faintly of last night’s rain. He asked if we’d ever driven a quadricycle before—my partner said yes (not really true), and I just laughed. Paulo didn’t seem to mind; he just ran us through the basics, patient but also kind of amused by how clumsy I was with the goggles. There was this quick check-in about safety rules—no switching drivers mid-route, no wild maneuvers—and then we were off.

The engine’s rumble felt louder than I expected as we left the Apoema base and hit the dirt trail. It’s only 7km to Morro Pelado but it’s not about distance here; it’s about the way the air changes as you climb, eucalyptus mixing with something earthy and sharp. At one point, Paulo slowed down so we could hear birds calling from somewhere deep in the trees. My hands were vibrating from the handlebars and I kept thinking how different this was from any drive back home—mud splattering up my arms, sun flickering between clouds. We stopped at a natural lookout halfway up and honestly, I didn’t expect to feel so small standing there. The valley just rolls out under you; you can see why they call it “Bald Hill.”

Paulo told us stories about Serra Gaúcha—how his grandfather used to walk these hills before there were even roads here. He pointed out a patch of wildflowers (can’t remember the name, but they smelled sweet) and joked that if we came back after rain we’d probably need those disposable raincoats they keep in the van. I tried asking him something in Portuguese and totally butchered it; he laughed but helped me say it right anyway.

I still think about that view from Morro Pelado sometimes—the quiet up there is different than anywhere else I’ve been. On the way back down, my arms were tired but I didn’t really want it to end yet, you know? The quadricycle tour from Serra Gaúcha to Morro Pelado isn’t long or flashy, but it sticks with you in ways you don’t expect.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — 7km Quadricycle Tour to Morro Pelado

• Read terms of use and liability
• Receive guide instructions and training
• Wear helmet and protective glasses
• Start 7km quadricycle tour
• Stop at Morro Pelado viewpoint
• Contemplate view and take pictures

Top questions

How long is the quadricycle tour to Morro Pelado?

The route covers 7km in total.

Is this quadricycle tour suitable for children?

Children under 7 years old are not allowed on this tour.

Are helmets provided for the quadricycle ride?

Yes, helmets and protective glasses are included for all participants.

Can pregnant women join this quadricycle tour?

No, pregnant women are not permitted on this activity.

Is prior experience needed for driving a quadricycle?

No previous experience is required; guides provide instructions before starting.

Are pilot changes allowed during the tour?

No, changing drivers during the route is not permitted.

What happens if it rains during the tour?

Disposable raincoats are provided if necessary due to rain.

What’s included in the price of this day trip from Serra Gaúcha?

The price includes use of a quadricycle for two people, helmet, protective glasses, guide accompaniment, and raincoat if needed.

What’s included

Your day includes all necessary safety equipment like helmets and protective glasses, plus a disposable raincoat if weather turns wet. You’ll get hands-on instruction from your local guide before heading out together along exclusive Apoema trails toward Morro Pelado—and come back with more than just dusty shoes.