Açu Shelter Guide
Summit Serenity: Açu Shelter, Your Mountain Oasis Guide
Nestled high in the Serra dos Órgãos National Park, the Açu Shelter offers a unique and unforgettable experience for hikers seeking breathtaking views and a touch of rustic comfort. This mountain refuge provides a place to rest and recharge amidst stunning natural beauty, making it a popular destination for multi-day treks. Imagine waking up to panoramic vistas of jagged peaks and lush valleys, a truly immersive experience in the heart of the Brazilian wilderness. The Açu Shelter has a long history of providing refuge for hikers and climbers exploring the Serra dos Órgãos. Over the years, it has been renovated and improved to offer basic amenities while maintaining its rustic charm. The shelter serves as a crucial point on the Travessia Petrópolis-Teresópolis, a challenging multi-day trek that traverses the entire mountain range. It's a testament to the enduring spirit of adventure and the importance of preserving these natural spaces. The primary activity at Açu Shelter is hiking. Many hikers use it as a base for exploring the surrounding peaks and trails, including the challenging climb to Pedra do Sino, the highest point in the park. Even if you're not tackling the full Travessia, a shorter hike to the shelter and back is a rewarding experience. While the shelter itself doesn't offer a culinary experience, you can bring your own food to prepare or purchase basic supplies. Remember to pack out all your trash and leave no trace behind.
Transportation
The Açu Shelter is accessible only by hiking trails from either Petrópolis or Teresópolis. The most common route starts in Petrópolis, requiring a bus from Rio de Janeiro to Petrópolis. From the Petrópolis bus station, take a local bus to the 'Parque Nacional' entrance. Be prepared for a challenging uphill hike of several hours to reach the shelter.