Seasons
The south receives far more rain than the north. The gravana, June to September, is the most reliable time for the drive, for views of Pico Cão Grande and for boat crossings. It is also when humpback whales pass offshore.
From October the rains return in force, peaking in October–November and again from March to May. Tracks to the far beaches can become difficult and the peak is often hidden in cloud — though the forest and waterfalls are at their finest.
Turtle season
Turtles nest on Praia Jalé and neighbouring beaches from about November to March, overlapping with the drier gravanito of December to February. That window is the sweet spot for combining beaches and wildlife.
Seeing the peak
Pico Cão Grande is clearest in the early morning and during the gravana. If it is in cloud when you pass, try again on the drive back — conditions change by the hour.
Pico Cão Grande & the South month by month
| Month | Avg high | Avg low | Visit rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 29°C | 23°C | ★★☆ Good time |
| February | 30°C | 23°C | ★★☆ Good time |
| March | 30°C | 23°C | ★☆☆ Wettest months |
| April | 30°C | 23°C | ★☆☆ Wettest months |
| May | 29°C | 23°C | ★☆☆ Wettest months |
| June | 28°C | 22°C | ★★★ Best season |
| July | 27°C | 21°C | ★★★ Best season |
| August | 27°C | 21°C | ★★★ Best season |
| September | 28°C | 22°C | ★★★ Best season |
| October | 28°C | 22°C | ★☆☆ Wettest months |
| November | 29°C | 22°C | ★★☆ Good time |
| December | 29°C | 23°C | ★★☆ Good time |
Temperatures are approximate long-term averages and vary with altitude; rain is possible in any month. Check a forecast before you travel.
