The rock face
For climbers.
Mariana Oliveira — Public domain · Mariana Oliveira — Public domain · Danielnijboer — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Danielnijboer — CC BY-SA 4.0
Pedra do Elefante is a municipal natural monument in Petrópolis, Rio de Janeiro state: an imposing granite mountain in the Serra de Petrópolis, also known as «Jacuba Menor», rising to 1,380 metres above sea level. Its rock face is about five hundred metres high, with thousands of boulders heaped at its base. The reserve was created by municipal decree in May 2010 over some 530 hectares and is part of the Central Rio de Janeiro Atlantic Forest Mosaic. It is reached by the Taquaril road in the Posse district, and well-kept trails lead to the foot of the rock from the «Abrigo do Elefante» site at kilometre two of the road. The place draws rock climbers to the challenging routes on its face, and walkers who are happy to reach the base and enjoy the view. Hazards include loose stones and snakes, so go with a guide or a group, wear proper shoes, and do not climb without experience and equipment.
For climbers.
To the base.
Around the peak.
Taquaril road, Posse district, Petrópolis, Rio de Janeiro state
You can walk to the base; the top is for equipped climbers.