Welcome to the Botanical Garden of São Paulo (Jardim Botânico de São Paulo), a tranquil 164.45-hectare (406.4-acre) sanctuary nestled within the Fontes do Ipiranga State Park in São Paulo’s South zone. Located in the Água Funda district right next to the São Paulo Zoo, this lush retreat offers you an immersive escape into preserved Atlantic Forest. Founded at its present location in 1928 by botanist Frederico Carlos Hoehne, the site houses the state's Botanical Institute and protects the historical headwaters of the Ipiranga River, which have been preserved by the government since 1893.
When you explore the grounds, you will discover an extraordinary variety of plant life, from orchids, ornamental plants, and aquatic species to majestic palm trees, fruit trees, timber trees, mushrooms, pteridophytes, and families like Gesneriaceae and Marantaceae. You can wander along peaceful trails and admire captivating sculptures throughout the park. Key attractions you should not miss include the Dr.
Frederico Carlos Hoehne orchidarium, historic greenhouses, the elegant Jardim de Lineu (Garden of Linnaeus), and a striking mirror of water. Be sure to pause at the scenic Lago das Ninfeias (Lake of the Waterlilies) and visit the Botanical Museum Dr. João Barbosa Rodrigues to enrich your journey through Brazil's rich botanical heritage.
What to see at Botanical Garden of São Paulo
- Dr. Frederico Carlos Hoehne Orchidarium and greenhouses
- Botanical Museum Dr. João Barbosa Rodrigues
- Lago das Ninfeias (Lake of the Waterlilies) and water mirror
- Jardim de Lineu (Garden of Linnaeus) and peaceful trails
- Diverse collection of native orchids, palm trees, and Atlantic Forest plants
Visiting tips
Combine your walk through the garden's scenic trails with a visit to the neighboring São Paulo Zoo right next door.
How long: 2-3 hours · Best time: Morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
Botanical Garden of São Paulo is easy to reach on São Paulo’s public transport, and pairs naturally with São Paulo Cathedral and Instituto Butantan. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our São Paulo travel guide.
See the full São Paulo travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.