Caminho da Fé — Borborema to Aparecida
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 Borborema–Aparecida branch originates in the town of Borborema and follows rural roads and interior towns eastward toward Aparecida, joining the central Caminho da Fé system later in the route.
This branch travels through the interior of São Paulo state and passes through agricultural regions, rural communities, and extended stretches between towns before connecting with the central Caminho da Fé route. Terrain is primarily rolling, becoming more varied as the route progresses toward the Serra da Mantiqueira and the final approach to Aparecida.
The effort took place during the Brazilian summer, with high humidity and frequent rainstorms.
This run marked the opening of the Borborema branch of the Caminho da Fé. I brought Lucky, the stray dog who followed me on the Caminho da Fé in 2018, back to complete the inaugural run of this branch. The effort was followed by the press, including Globo, documenting Lucky’s return and the opening of the Borborema route. During the run, we were recognized by the mayor of Trabiju, who awarded us a key to the town.
Style / Notes
This FKT was completed in a supported style as a continuous multi-day effort. I ran the route together with Amy Costa, accompanied by Lucky. Support was provided by Alan Lacerda and Luiz Santos. 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; no water was taken from natural sources. Navigation was handled independently, following the official Caminho da Fé route.