Southern Canyons Parks
- South – States of Rio Grande do Sul and Santa Catarina
Between stone walls and endless valleys, the canyons of the South region reveal a Brazil beyond the horizon
Welcome to the Land of Giants! On the border between Rio Grande do Sul and Santa Catarina, the landscape turns into art. Nature has torn deep cracks in the earth and designed a breathtaking sight: the Southern Canyons. More than 60 monumental formations some of which reach an altitude of 1,500 meters, make up the largest concentration of canyons in Latin America. More than a visual spectacle, this is a living land approved by UNESCO as the Caminhos dos Cânions do Sul [Southern Canyons Pathways] Geopark, where the Atlantic Forest embraces basalt walls sculpted over millions of years.
In this extraordinary land, iconic Conservation Units are protected, such as the Aparados da Serra National Park and the Serra Geral National Park. Araucaria forests, waterfalls that plunge into the void, deep valleys and vertiginous walls make up an almost mythical scenario. Between panoramic trails and the absolute silence of a viewpoint suspended over the abyss, you are invited to reconnect with the essentials. Here, where geological time shapes the landscape, the experience is intense, transformative and unforgettable.
Discover the Southern Canyons Parks
EXPERIENCES
A journey among giants, cultures and abysses
From the silence of the massive walls to hospitality, the Caminhos dos Cânions do Sul Geopark is an invitation to truly feel the land. Trails connect the mountains to the sea, while rivers give form to natural pools, and small communities reveal traditions that resist time.
The destination offers unique experiences such as exploring geotourism; tasting delicacies from the countryside made on a wood stove and artisanal cheeses straight from producers; learning the stories told by drovers (tropeiros) with a local craft beer in your hand; diving into hidden waterfalls and sleeping with the sound of wind blowing through the araucarias. This is the kind of place you don’t ‘visit’: you just feel it.
The world opens up at your feet
In Aparados da Serra, even the shortest paths reveal cinematographic landscapes, with waterfalls coming from the mountains and forests that bravely resist time. A light walk is enough to see the gigantic Itaimbezinho Canyon, a stone wall that seems to tear the earth in silence.
For those looking for intensity, the Rio do Boi Trail offers an adventure inside the canyon with a long-distance hike (trekking): rivers, rocks and the feeling of being so tiny compared to the force of nature. The park provides in-depth experiences, from contemplation to physical challenge.
Nature's fortress: where time stops before the horizon
At every turn, a new horizon. At each climb, a breathtaking view. Serra Geral is a destination that fascinates for its silence, the grandeur of its landscapes, and the fresh air that invades our lungs. Here, the Fortaleza Canyon surprises us with its almost infinite extension.
The trails take you over abyss edges, araucaria forests, very cold rivers and stone paths that never seem to end. The emotion is in the journey, in the sounds of the forest, in the altitude wind, in the charming inns between valleys, and in the privilege of being in one of the most impressive landscapes in the country.
The soul of the mountain in your plate and in your glass
The adventure in the Canyons whets the appetite, and the local cuisine is an attraction in itself. The region celebrates cuisine with well-timed meals and ingredients with history. From creamy polenta to pine nut entrevero, from country sausages to colonial cheese, everything gains more flavor when shared with those who live there.
Slow roasts, ground fire and the ever-present gaúcho barbecue are the highlights. But you should also try the pine nut (araucaria seed) on the hotplate, the mate (chimarrão) shared in gatherings, and the altitude wines of Santa Catarina and Serra Gaúcha. The combination of pecans with local wines is a sophisticated surprise for the taste of those visiting the Southern Canyons.
HOW TO GET THERE?
USEFUL INFORMATION
Climate
The region is marked by extremes. In winter, temperatures can be negative, with frost and occasional snow in the higher areas of the mountains. Summer is mild, but rainier.
Best time to visit
The region can be visited all year round. Between April and November, the weather is usually steadier, ideal for trails and observation of landscapes. Autumn (March to May) brings pleasant temperatures and the vibrant colors of the vegetation, while spring (September to November) is marked by blue skies and flowery fields. The spectacle of clouds covering the canyons at dawn can be seen in the winter (June to August).
Practical tips
Wear comfortable, layered clothing, as the weather can change quickly. Bring a raincoat, sunscreen lotion, water, snacks and appropriate footwear for hiking. Hiring accredited local tour guides is critical to your safety.
Embratur and Visit Brasil are not responsible in cases of poor performance or not providing the experience conveyed. Service providers are solely responsible for the activities sold.
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