Lagamar Cycle Tourism Circuit

Last month, the official launch of the Lagamar São Paulo Cycle Tourism Circuit took place in the coastal municipality of Ilha Comprida, São Paulo, Brazil.

The circuit spans approximately 180 km (112 miles) and is divided into 5 stages across the municipalities of Ilha Comprida, Iguape, Pariquera-Açu, Jacupiranga, and Cananéia. It can be completed in 1 to 5 days—or even longer—depending on each traveler’s available time and pace.

The route encompasses the southernmost coastal region of São Paulo state. The Lagamar area is recognized worldwide by UNESCO as part of the Atlantic Forest Biosphere Reserve.

Personally, it was an honor and a thrill to attend the official launch and return to this magnificent region after two years.

During my long bicycle journey between Paraná and Rio de Janeiro, I was gifted with the untouched beauty of this region and crossed nearly half of what is now the circuit without even knowing it at the time. That came as a sweet reward after a grueling day traversing the isolated boundary between Paraná and São Paulo—a legendary, muddy section known as the Telegraph Trail (Trilha do Telégrafo).

The Launch

The launch event brought vibrant excitement to the seaside town of Ilha Comprida, drawing mayors and municipal leaders from all five cities traversed by the route.

The region actively advocates for sustainable, eco-friendly tourism that protects its pristine and fragile ecosystem. That is the foundational concept championed by William Mendes de Souza, project founder, biologist, and environmental manager—and cycle tourism integrates seamlessly into this reality.

Following the initial presentation, three lectures were delivered. First, Therbio Felipe—editor of *Revista Bicicleta*, experienced cycle traveler, and widely recognized as the “Professor on Wheels”—spoke on cycling citizenship and how integrating bicycle travel enriches and empowers local host communities.

Then came my turn. I shared stories and lessons from my year-long bicycle expedition across South America to introduce cycle travel to an engaged, diverse audience. It was deeply emotional to return to this land, particularly having the chance to speak to the many children in attendance. I highlighted the enduring truth I learned on the road: that the world is inherently good, and goodwill is what welcomes you along the way.

Next came Charles Zimmermann, world traveler, author of the book Travessia, and columnist at Extremos. He reflected on his global adventures and shared how traveling by bicycle fosters direct, authentic cultural exchange with residents:

“The bicycle is fascinating because along the way lies the true discovery of the natural, cultural, and gastronomic treasures of each place visited. When you learn to travel by bicycle, you discover how to be truly happy with very little.”
— Charles Zimmermann

To local entrepreneurs and public leaders, he provided key insights to develop and nurture cycle tourism infrastructure.

The municipality acquired copies of my book — Trilhando Sonhos — as well as Charles Zimmermann’s Travessia, placing them on public display and loan at the municipal library.

Circuit Details

Nobody can speak for the trail better than those who have ridden it firsthand. I spoke with Claudia Jak (33) and Filipe Aguiar (45), a seasoned cycling couple from Sorocaba/SP who recently rode the entire Lagamar circuit in 3 days. They are veteran bike tourers with iconic routes under their belts, including the Camino de Santiago, Vale Europeu, Caminho do Sol, Caminho do Sal, Circuito das Frutas, and Estrada Real (Caminho dos Diamantes).

Why ride it?

Discovering preserved historic towns, traditional coastal caiçara communities, cycling across expansive ocean beaches, and riding through dense Atlantic Forest reserves, estuaries, and crystalline waterfalls. If that isn’t reason enough, consider one more: the route features a remarkably flat elevation profile, tailored perfectly for beginner cycle tourists!

How to do it?

First, give your bicycle a comprehensive tune-up. Ask your mechanic for quick roadside repair tips—such as tube replacement, chain link fixes, and always bring chain lube (clean and lubricate your drivetrain daily!). Train beforehand: two to three rides per week, covering 45 to 50 km per session. Prepare panniers for your gear. If they aren’t waterproof, make sure to bring reliable rain covers, as the coastal mountains are humid with frequent precipitation.

The logistics are simple and convenient: because it is a closed loop circuit, it begins and finishes at the exact same location: Panificadora Cajará in Ilha Comprida. Accommodations in Ilha Comprida, Iguape, Pariquera-Açu, Jacupiranga, and Cananéia are officially recommended by organizers and provided inside a cyclist kit containing a detailed guidebook and commemorative items. This kit can be picked up at the bakery for R$ 20.00. At the end, presenting your stamped credential earns an official completion certificate.

The 180 km circuit can be comfortably pedaled in 3 to 5 days. Official trail signage with directional markers will be completed shortly (scheduled for early December 2015). For now, anyone wishing to ride the circuit can request the GPS coordinates and track files (.kmz or .kml) directly with Mr. William via email at wmmultiambiental@gmail.com or caujakp@hotmail.com.

To read more practical bicycle travel tips, packing lists, and gear guides, visit Claudia and Filipe’s cycle touring blog.

More Information

Acknowledgments

Special thanks to the Municipality of Ilha Comprida and Mara Ventura for their exceptional warmth and hospitality; to Claudia Jak for her generous collaboration; and to William Mendes for the kind invitation.