Caminho da Fé — São Carlos to Aparecida (FKT Submission)
Location: São Paulo, BR
Distance: ~607 km (377.1 miles)
Vertical Gain: ~16,495 m (54,113 ft)
Vertical Loss: ~16,759 m (54,965 ft)
Description
The Caminho da Fé (Path of Faith), inspired by the Camino de Santiago de Compostela, connects a network of pilgrimage routes across the state of São Paulo, all converging at the Basilica of Our Lady of Aparecida. The São Carlos–Aparecida branch is one of the official start routes, beginning in the interior city of São Carlos and following rural roads, agricultural corridors, and small-town connectors as it moves toward the Serra da Mantiqueira.
The route covers approximately 607 km with over 16,000 meters of climbing. The early stages cross open farmland and rolling countryside on red-earth and gravel roads before gradually rising into more forested terrain near the foothills of the Mantiqueira. After joining the central Caminho da Fé system, the terrain becomes steeper, with sustained ascents, sharp descents, and broad mountain views characteristic of the region.
As with all branches of the Caminho da Fé, this route blends physical challenge with cultural and spiritual significance. The path moves through rural communities, interior landscapes, and the natural beauty of the Mantiqueira Mountains before reaching the Basilica of Our Lady of Aparecida, the traditional endpoint for the pilgrimage.
Style / Notes
This FKT was completed in a supported style with fellow runner Amy Costa. Lodging was arranged at pousadas along the route, with all forward progress made on foot, running directly into and out of each stay. Resupply consisted of food and bottled water purchased along the path. Navigation followed the official Caminho da Fé markings.
During this crossing, a stray mountain dog joined for several days, following from the Ouro Fino region to Aparecida. He was later named Lucky Caminho and became the subject of the book “Lucky: A True Story.”