The X post from @siteptbr

 announces breaking news: 19-year-old Roberto Farias Thomaz, who went missing on Pico do Paraná since January 1st after being separated from (or reportedly left behind by) his friend during a New Year's hike, was found alive on January 5, 2026.Key DetailsRoberto (aged 19-20 in reports) started the challenging trek on December 31, 2025, with a female friend named Thayane Smith, whom he had known for less than a month.

They aimed to watch the first sunrise of 2026 at the summit.

He became separated during the descent on January 1st.

After five days missing, he walked over 20 km alone through dense forest, reaching a farm in the Cacatu area (Antonina).

He arrived with bruises, scrapes all over his body, having lost his glasses and boots, but otherwise in stable condition.

He was taken to a hospital for checks.

He called his sister upon arrival and later said in a video, "It was God" who helped him survive.


About Pico do ParanáPico do Paraná is Brazil's highest peak in the southern region at 1,877 meters, known for its steep trails, variable weather, and high difficulty—frequent incidents of hikers getting lost occur there.en.wikipedia.org


Public ReactionThe original post gained over 3.7 million views and massive engagement. Replies express relief, criticism of the friend (some initially accused her harshly, but toned down after he was found), and plenty of humor/memes—e.g., joking about TikTok tarot readers being "shocked" by the happy ending or mocking the decision to hike with someone barely known.Photos of Roberto After RescueHere are images shared widely after his discovery, showing him alive and recovering:folhadolitoral.com.br



youtube.com

The case drew huge media attention in Brazil, with no indications of foul play, and serves as a reminder of the risks of high-altitude trekking without proper experience or precautions.