Circuito TH5 Travessia 2026 — Etapa 3 (Bertioga)

In 1552, the German mercenary Hans Staden stood as a prisoner within the walls of the Forte de São João, fearing for his life at the hands of the local Tupinambá. Centuries later, these same coastal waters of Bertioga became the final setting for the fugitive Josef Mengele, who died while swimming here in 1979. Today, the stretch of sea off Praia do Indiá offers a far more peaceful experience for those participating in the Circuito TH5 Travessia. As you prepare to enter the water, the historical weight of this canal—once a strategic bulwark for the Portuguese crown—serves as the backdrop for your own effort.

The conditions of the canal

Swimming in this region requires an awareness of the shifting currents that define the Bertioga Canal. The water here is influenced by both the open sea and the tidal exchanges of the mangrove-rich estuary, part of the extensive Restinga de Bertioga State Park. While modern swimmers do not face the historical dangers of canoe raids by the Tamoio, the channel demands a steady rhythm to manage the flow that fluctuates with the tide. The event organizer, TH5 Eventos, manages the logistics with safety boats and kayak escorts to ensure that all participants, whether in the shorter distances or the full circuit, maintain a safe trajectory through the currents. The region also saw the development of a significant whale oil industry in the 18th century, with remnants of storage tanks occasionally visible near the coastline.

Race day logistics

The third stage of the 2026 circuit is scheduled for May 31, 2026. Entry fees for these events generally cover the necessary maritime coordination, security, and the logistical support required to clear the canal for the race. Participants receive a basic race pack consisting of a swimming cap and a timing chip. Wetsuit rules are determined on a stage-by-stage basis, reflecting the fluctuating water temperatures of the South Atlantic; you should check the official event updates closer to the date for the definitive ruling. For those looking to compare their pacing, the circuit features multiple stops, including the earlier second stage held in March. Whether you are aiming for a personal best or navigating the historic currents for the first time, the race provides a direct connection to the maritime heritage of the São Paulo coast.