The peak is one of the highest points in the Serra do Itapeti mountain range.
The location is recognized as one of the most reliable spots for thermal lift for paragliders in the São Paulo state interior.
The road to the summit is famously steep and often requires vehicles with good clearance or traction.
Pico do Urubu is a high-altitude observation point reaching 1,160 meters above sea level in the Serra do Itapeti. It provides a panoramic view of the Mogi das Cruzes urban basin, the Tietê River valley, and the surrounding Atlantic Forest. The summit serves as a primary launching site for paragliding and hang gliding enthusiasts in the region. The site features an unpaved access road and a natural plateau at the top. It is located within the Mogi das Cruzes municipal limits, approximately 15 kilometers from the city center. The surrounding vegetation is characteristic of high-altitude tropical mountain biomes. On clear days, visibility can extend toward the metropolitan area of São Paulo.
The edge of the concrete ramp providing an unobstructed view of the valley below.
Bring a windbreaker or layers, as the elevation makes the summit significantly windier and colder than the city below.
Verify weather conditions before departure, as low cloud cover often obscures the view completely.
Stay on designated paths to avoid damaging the local vegetation and encroaching on launch zones.
Do not attempt the ascent during or immediately after heavy rainfall if you are driving a standard passenger car, as the dirt road becomes slippery and prone to deep mud.
Respect paraglider launch zones; do not walk directly onto the ramp or interfere with flight equipment.
