Guide to alternative routes to avoid traffic in Tamoios

Planning a trip to the North Coast of São Paulo during long holidays or in high season can be synonymous with worrying about traffic. The Tamoios Highway (SP-099), the main access to cities such as Caraguatatuba, São Sebastião and Ilhabela, tends to experience long traffic jams. If you are looking to find out what alternative routes are to escape the heavy traffic on Rodovia dos Tamoios on holidays, this practical guide was made for you. Here, we detail the main options to make your trip start more smoothly and safely.

Why Tamoios is the main route and when to avoid it

The Tamoios Highway is the most direct route for those leaving the capital of São Paulo and the Paraíba Valley towards the heart of the North Coast. Its modern infrastructure, with double sections, makes it the natural choice for most drivers. However, this popularity comes at a price: in periods of high demand, the volume of vehicles exceeds the road capacity, resulting in hours of slow traffic.

The ideal is to look for alternatives mainly in:

• Eves and beginnings of long holidays (Carnival, New Year, Easter).
• Summer weekends with sunny forecast.
• Late afternoon on Sundays and when returning from holidays.

Main alternative routes to the North Coast

Analyzing your starting point and, mainly, your final destination on the coast is the first step in choosing the best route. Ubatuba, for example, is best served by one route, while São Sebastião and Ilhabela can be accessed by another.

1. Anchieta-Imigrantes System (SAI) + Rio-Santos Highway (BR-101)

This route is an excellent option for those going to Bertioga, the South Coast of São Sebastião (beaches such as Juquehy, Maresias and Camburi) or taking the ferry to Ilhabela.

• How it works: The driver descends the mountains via the Anchieta-Imigrantes System (SP-160/SP-150) and, upon arriving at the coast (Guarujá or Cubatão), accesses the Dr. Manoel Hipólito do Rêgo Highway (SP-055), which connects to Rio-Santos (BR-101).
• Advantages: The road is mostly flat and coastal, offering spectacular views. It is the most efficient route to the beaches in the south of the region.
• Disadvantages: The Rio-Santos stretch has many curves and urban stretches that can cause slowdowns, especially when crossing Bertioga and Juquehy. It is also subject to heavy traffic on SAI during holidays.

2. Mogi-Bertioga Highway (SP-098)

A popular alternative for those leaving the East Zone of São Paulo or cities like Mogi das Cruzes. It is a viable route to get to Bertioga and São Sebastião.

• How it works: Access is via the Ayrton Senna Highway (SP-070) and then via Mogi-Dutra (SP-088) until Mogi das Cruzes, where Mogi-Bertioga begins.
• Advantages: It may be a shorter route depending on the starting point and avoids the Anchieta-Imigrantes System tolls.
• Disadvantages: The mountain is single track, with winding curves and heavy truck traffic. It is a route extremely susceptible to dense fog and closures due to falling barriers during rainy periods.

3. Oswaldo Cruz Highway (SP-125)

This is the traditional route for those who have Ubatuba as their final destination, starting from Vale do Paraíba.

• How it works: Access is via the Presidente Dutra Highway (BR-116) or Carvalho Pinto (SP-070) until Taubaté, where you take the Oswaldo Cruz Highway.
• Advantages: It is the shortest and most direct way to most of Ubatuba’s beaches.
• Disadvantages: It is famous for its extremely steep and winding mountain section, with very sharp curves. It is not recommended for inexperienced drivers, on heavy rainy days or for heavy vehicles (trucks and buses are prohibited from traveling through it). It requires extra attention and brakes in good condition.

Essential tips for planning your trip

Regardless of the route chosen, good planning is essential to ensure a safer and less stressful trip.

• Check real-time traffic: Before leaving and during your route, use apps like Waze and Google Maps to check road conditions. Also follow the profiles of dealerships and the Highway Police on social media.
• Travel at alternative times: Leaving early in the morning (between 3am and 5am) or late in the morning (after 11am) can help avoid peak congestion.
• Inspect the vehicle: Mainly check brakes, tires and lights. This tip is crucial for those who are going to face the mountains on Rodovia Oswaldo Cruz or Mogi-Bertioga.
• Prepare for the unexpected: Bring water, snacks and have your cell phone charged. Travel time may be longer than expected on either route.
• Fuel up before going down the mountain: Gas stations can be scarce and more expensive in mountainous areas and in Rio-Santos.

Choosing an alternative route to Rodovia dos Tamoios requires analysis and preparation. Evaluate your destination, your driving experience and weather conditions. Whether due to the scenic beauty of Rio-Santos, the practicality of Mogi-Bertioga or the challenge of Oswaldo Cruz, the important thing is to reach your destination on the North Coast safely to enjoy the best the region has to offer.