🌳 Ibirapuera Park

São Paulo's green lung with culture and nature

Aerial view of Ibirapuera Park in São Paulo
Photo: Leandro Kibisz · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.0

About Ibirapuera Park

Parque Ibirapuera is São Paulo's answer to Central Park - 390 acres of green space in the heart of the city, designed by landscape architect Burle Marx and featuring iconic buildings by Oscar Niemeyer. Beyond its gardens and lakes, the park houses world-class museums, cultural spaces, and hosts concerts and events year-round. Pair this stop with the Sao Paulo guide and the wider Brazil overview.

⏰ Hours & Best Times

  • Park: Daily 5 AM - midnight
  • Museums: Tuesday-Sunday 10 AM - 6 PM (closed Mondays)
  • Best: Weekend mornings for jogging, cycling, people-watching
  • Events: Check calendar for free concerts and festivals

💰 Costs

  • Park entry: Free
  • Afro Brasil Museum: R$15 (free Saturday)
  • MAM (Modern Art): R$25
  • Bike rental: R$15-25 per hour

✨ Highlights

  • 🏛️ Niemeyer buildings: Biennial, Oca, Auditorium - architectural icons
  • 🖼️ Afro Brasil Museum: Celebrating African-Brazilian heritage
  • 🎨 MAM: Museum of Modern Art with sculpture garden
  • 🚴 Bike paths: 8 km of dedicated cycling routes
  • 🦆 Lakes: Peaceful spots for relaxation
  • 🏃 Jogging: Popular running circuits

📝 Tips

  • Bring water: Limited fountains, stay hydrated
  • Weekends are busy: Families, runners, concerts - vibrant atmosphere
  • Free entry days: Museums offer free admission on rotating days
  • Planetarium: Book ahead for astronomy shows (R$20)
  • Food options: Kiosks inside or restaurants around the perimeter