Bauru has many different sides: Cerrado vegetation covers a large area of the Jardim Botânico Municipal, the Horto Florestal combines conservation and recreation, and the Museu Ferroviário Regional focuses on the city’s railway history. The Zoológico adds wildlife and environmental education to the mix. In Bauru, you’ll find a range of themes to shape your trip around—from trails in protected areas to historical exhibits.

Cerrado and trails in green spaces

The Jardim Botânico Municipal de Bauru covers 321.71 hectares, including 280 hectares of Cerrado vegetation. The garden features an ecological trail, a lookout point and a visitor center. There’s more to explore than just plant life: the trail and lookout each offer a distinct experience, while the visitor center provides another place to stop.

The Jardim Botânico is open Tuesday through Sunday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. In January, July and December, as well as on public holidays and the days before them, it is also open on Mondays. Admission is free. Access is through the Zoológico Municipal on Rodovia Comandante João Ribeiro de Barros (SP-225), kilometer 232. Check opening hours before setting out, as schedules may change.

The Horto Florestal de Bauru is a 43.09-hectare protected area with ecological, aesthetic and recreational functions. Its two visitor areas have different opening hours. In the inner conservation area, you can walk or jog on the trails Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. The outer visitor area is open daily from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., including weekends and public holidays. It has a running or walking route, a trail, a playground and outdoor fitness equipment.

Wildlife and environmental education

The Zoológico de Bauru cares for 700 animals from 170 different species, including birds, reptiles, fish and mammals. Its work also includes supporting wild animals: this involves veterinary and nutritional care, as well as rehabilitation and release into the wild. The zoo is therefore about more than a variety of animal groups; animal care and reintroduction are also part of its work.

The Zoológico’s environmental education program includes Bicho do Mês, Curso de Férias, scheduled and guided visits, courses, community exhibitions and virtual educational activities. Professional development courses are aimed at teachers and technicians. The program spans a range of formats, from guided visits to virtual activities. Those interested in wildlife can explore educational and conservation topics here alongside the animal groups.

Railway history at the Museu Ferroviário

The Museu Ferroviário Regional de Bauru offers insight into railway history and displays locomotives, railcars, objects, uniforms and documents from railway companies that drove Bauru’s growth. The exhibits explore the companies’ role in the city’s history. The museum building also has a history of its own: the century-old structure once served as the headquarters of the Estrada de Ferro Noroeste do Brasil and is protected as a São Paulo state heritage site by Condephaat.

When choosing your visit days, it’s worth comparing the opening hours: on Saturdays, use of the trails in the Horto’s inner conservation area ends at 11 a.m., while the outer visitor area remains open on weekends. The botanical garden is normally open Tuesday through Sunday and also opens on certain Mondays. Match these hours to your travel dates and check them before your visit.

Discover more destinations: Jarinu, Ribeirão Prêto, Agudos, Jales, Maracaí, Lupércio, Joanópolis, São José Do Rio Pardo

For the broader travel overview: São Paulo.