Location: São Paulo, BR
Distance: ~644 km (400.1 miles)
Vertical Gain: ~17,235 m (56,541 ft)
Vertical Loss: ~17,748 m (58,212 ft)
Elapsed Time: 13 days, 4 hours, 4 minutes
Start: January 5, 2022 at 8:14 AM
Finish: January 18, 2022 at 12:18 PM
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 Franca–Aparecida branch is one of the official start routes, beginning in the city of Franca and following rural roads, agricultural regions, and interior towns as it moves toward the Serra da Mantiqueira.
The route spans approximately 644 km with more than 17,000 meters of climbing. The early stages travel through expansive agricultural landscapes and red-earth farm roads typical of the region. As the path continues, the terrain gradually becomes more varied and undulating, eventually rising toward the foothills of the Mantiqueira. After joining the central Caminho da Fé system, the route takes on steeper ascents, technical descents, and the characteristic mountain scenery that leads pilgrims toward Aparecida.
As with all branches of the Caminho da Fé, this route blends significant physical challenge with cultural and spiritual themes. It moves through rural communities and diverse interior landscapes before reaching the Basilica of Our Lady of Aparecida, the traditional endpoint of 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.