Cambará do Sul Aparados da Serra
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Cambará do Sul Aparados da Serra

4.7
·3k reviews·, Brazil

Explore the dramatic Itaimbezinho and Serra Geral canyons, Brazil's answer to the Grand Canyon, offering stunning vistas and rich biodiversity.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Winter mornings

Clearer skies, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Cambará do Sul Aparados da Serra

Cambará do Sul Aparados da Serra

Best Time

Winter mornings

Clearer skies, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore the dramatic Itaimbezinho and Serra Geral canyons, Brazil's answer to the Grand Canyon, offering stunning vistas and rich biodiversity.

4.7
(3k reviews)

"A tropical version of the Grand Canyon, a must-see with unparalleled natural beauty."

Vertical photo
TIP

Pack for All Weather 🌦️

Be ready for sun, rain, and fog. Layers are essential, even in warmer months.

Don't Miss the Pastéis! 🥟

Look out for local vendors selling delicious homemade pastéis, a delightful snack.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Itaimbezinho Canyon

Itaimbezinho Canyon

Aparados da Serra National Park

A breathtaking, tropical Grand Canyon with dramatic cliffs and lush vegetation. A true natural wonder.

Serra Geral National Park

Serra Geral National Park

Adjacent to Aparados da Serra

Explore more dramatic canyons and diverse wildlife, offering a less crowded, wilder experience.

Canyon Footpaths

Canyon Footpaths

Various trails within the parks

Wander along well-maintained paths offering spectacular viewpoints and opportunities to spot wildlife.

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Planning Your Visit

Weather Watch is Key

Cambará do Sul's weather is notoriously unpredictable. Fog can obscure the stunning canyons, especially in summer. Winter is often recommended for clearer views, but pack layers as temperatures can drop.

Access Fees & Donations

While some visitors express frustration with entrance fees, it's noted that donations are crucial as government support is limited. Be prepared for these costs to help maintain the park.

Best Times

When
Winter mornings
Why
Clearer skies, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons (clear days)
Why
Sunlight illuminates the canyons
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Você toparia? Uma cabana no meio da natureza é simplesmente o melhor lugar!🥹 @cabanaalameda #viaje #cabana #chale #sonho #serra #cambaradosul #riograndedosul #vamos
@cinthya_cabral
329.6K likes • 2.1M views

Pack for All Weather 🌦️

Be ready for sun, rain, and fog. Layers are essential, even in warmer months. Reddit

Don't Miss the Pastéis! 🥟

Look out for local vendors selling delicious homemade pastéis, a delightful snack. Reddit

NEVOU! ❄️ A primeira neve do ano chegou ao Sul do Brasil na madrugada desta quinta-feira (29) e transformou as paisagem de municípios gaúchos como São José Dos Ausentes, Bom Jesus e Cambará do Sul. Nessas regiões, situadas nos Campos De Cima da Serra e com altitudes que variam entre 1 mil e 1,2 mil metros, o fenômeno foi registrado pouco depois do alvorecer. 🌨️ Segundo a MetSul Meteorologia, a que...
@folhadepernambuco
97.7K likes • 1.6M views
📍 Itaimbezinho - Cambará do Sul, RS 🌳 Para conhecer os Cânions do Itaimbezinho que estão dentro do Parque Nacional de Aparados da Serra, há duas cidades que são porta de entrada, Cambará do Sul que dá acesso às duas trilhas da parte de cima do cânion e Praia Grande que te leva para a trilha da parte baixa.👍 Alguém já conheceu algum lugar como esse?? 📸 : @viajandoeusoufeliz
vaidevoala
61 likes • 2.3K views

Check Park Status ℹ️

Information centers can be outdated; confirm trail conditions and accessibility beforehand. Reddit

Consider a Guide 🚶

For deeper insights and access to less-traveled areas, hiring a local guide is recommended. Reddit

📍Serra do Faxinal, divisa do Rio Grande do Sul com Santa Catarina. A Serra do Faxinal é a estrada que liga Praia Grande (SC) a Cambará do Sul (RS). Ela corta a borda dos aparados da Serra Geral, uma das regiões geográficas mais impressionantes do Brasil, onde ficam os famosos cânions como Itaimbezinho e Malacara. A serra é formada por grandes paredões, escarpas abruptas e florestas de araucária...
umgauchoviajante
4.7K likes • 346.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Pack for All Weather 🌦️

Be ready for sun, rain, and fog. Layers are essential, even in warmer months. Reddit

Don't Miss the Pastéis! 🥟

Look out for local vendors selling delicious homemade pastéis, a delightful snack. Reddit

Check Park Status ℹ️

Information centers can be outdated; confirm trail conditions and accessibility beforehand. Reddit

Consider a Guide 🚶

For deeper insights and access to less-traveled areas, hiring a local guide is recommended. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking, unique beauty of the canyons, often comparing them to the Grand Canyon. However, some express concerns about entrance fees and the unpredictable weather, which can sometimes lead to fog obscuring the views.

"Amazing place, but be mindful of the weather. I've been told that the winter is the best season to visit. If you visit during the summer you might end up only seeing fog like I did. 🙃"

Luciano Lingnau

"Very beautiful views even with fog. The best part was the little house that sells homemade pastel!"

Sopaipilla

"This park is for the rich, not for normal people, to whom it should be accessible! The greed is disgusting.

With all the taxes wasted in Brazil, there was not money left to make national heritage accesible to the general public? Whoever is responsible for this absurd entrance fee and commercial industrialization of national heritage should be ashamed, and the state lawmakers should do something. In Rio de Janerio, National Parques are for free. Poor or rich, anyone can enter for free. In Rio Grande do Sul, all parks are difficult to enter (registration processes for national forests are stupidly beaurocratic, and extreme fees for national parks). Its beyond absurd, especially considering how much nature has been destroyed.

Never seen anything like in Rio Grande do Sul before. Not in Brazil and not in any other country. Basically no forest or park where people can just go for free without paying fees or registrating 3 days in advance through beaurocratic application forms, having to wait for approval. Absurd and unjust. Its a disgrace!"

Linnart Felkl

What People Like

Spectacular canyon views
Unique natural landscapes
Sense of awe and wonder

What People Dislike

Entrance fees
Foggy weather
Outdated facilities

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most common way to reach Cambará do Sul is by car or bus from major cities like Porto Alegre or Florianópolis. From Cambará do Sul, local buses or taxis can take you to the park entrances. Renting a car offers the most flexibility for exploring both Aparados da Serra and Serra Geral National Parks. Reddit

Yes, it's possible to visit using local buses to Cambará do Sul and then arranging local transport or tours to the parks. However, having a car significantly enhances the experience and allows for easier access to different viewpoints and trails. Reddit

These parks are adjacent, but accessing different points can require driving. If you don't have a car, consider booking a guided tour that covers both parks, as they often handle the transportation logistics. Reddit

Regular bus services operate from Porto Alegre and Florianópolis to Cambará do Sul. It's advisable to book your bus tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. Reddit

Roads leading to Cambará do Sul are generally paved and in good condition. However, some internal park roads or access routes to specific viewpoints might be unpaved and can be rough, especially after rain. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entrance fees can vary and some visitors have expressed concerns about them. It's important to check the official park websites or inquire locally for the most current pricing. Donations are also encouraged as government funding is limited. Reddit

While advance booking might not always be mandatory, it's a good idea to check park regulations, especially during busy periods. Some national parks in Brazil have complex registration processes, though this seems less common for these specific parks. Reddit

Information on discounts is not widely publicized. It's best to inquire directly with park authorities or check their official websites for any available concessions. Reddit

Park opening hours can vary seasonally. It's recommended to confirm the current operating hours before your visit, as they may differ for different sections or trails. Reddit

Parking fees are typically included in the entrance fee or are minimal. However, it's always wise to confirm this upon arrival at the park entrance. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The Itaimbezinho Canyon is the star attraction, with viewpoints like 'Mirante do Canyon' offering spectacular vistas. The 'Trilha do Velo' trail leads to a waterfall. Reddit

Yes, local guides can be hired in Cambará do Sul. They offer valuable insights into the flora, fauna, and geology, and can lead you to less-known spots. Reddit

Keep an eye out for monkeys, various bird species, and other native fauna. While sightings are not guaranteed, the parks are rich in biodiversity. Reddit

There are a variety of trails, from easy, flat paths to more challenging hikes. The main viewpoints are usually accessible via relatively easy walks. Reddit

Facilities can be basic. Some areas have picnic spots, and there might be small kiosks selling snacks. However, the information center and picnic areas are noted as needing updates. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography Tips

Early morning or late afternoon light offers the most dramatic shadows and colors, enhancing the canyon's grandeur. Be mindful of fog, which can create atmospheric shots but obscure details. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the canyons. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions or long exposures. Reddit

Drone usage in national parks is often restricted or prohibited to protect wildlife and maintain the natural environment. Always check the specific park regulations before flying a drone. Reddit

Include a person or a recognizable object in your frame to give a sense of scale. Shooting from different elevations can also emphasize the depth and height of the canyon walls. Reddit

Beyond the main canyon views, look for waterfalls, unique rock formations, and the diverse plant life. The changing weather can also create dramatic photographic moments. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Cambará do Sul's national parks offer a fantastic opportunity for families to connect with nature. The main trails to viewpoints like Itaimbezinho Canyon are generally easy and accessible, making them suitable for children. Pack plenty of snacks and water, as facilities can be limited. Reddit Look for opportunities to spot wildlife, which always excites younger visitors. Consider visiting during clearer weather periods to maximize the visual impact of the canyons. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

While entrance fees exist, budget travelers can still make the most of Cambará do Sul. Opt for bus travel to reach the town, and look for hostels or budget guesthouses for accommodation. Packing your own food and snacks will save money on dining within or near the parks. Reddit Consider joining group tours if available, as they can sometimes be more cost-effective than private transport. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Cambará do Sul is a dream destination. The dramatic landscapes of Itaimbezinho and Serra Geral offer endless opportunities for stunning shots. Golden hour (early morning and late afternoon) provides the best light for capturing the canyons' textures and depth. Reddit Be prepared for changing weather conditions, as fog can create unique, atmospheric photographic opportunities. A wide-angle lens is essential for capturing the vastness. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Understanding the Canyons: Itaimbezinho & Serra Geral

The Aparados da Serra National Park is home to the iconic Itaimbezinho Canyon, often described as a tropical Grand Canyon. Its sheer sandstone walls plunge hundreds of meters, carved over millennia by the Itaimbezinho River. The park offers several well-maintained trails that lead to breathtaking viewpoints, allowing visitors to marvel at the scale and beauty of this natural wonder. Reddit

Adjacent to Aparados da Serra is the Serra Geral National Park, which provides a more rugged and less-developed experience. It features its own dramatic canyons, including the Canyon Fortaleza, known for its expansive views and diverse ecosystems. Exploring Serra Geral often involves more adventurous hikes and a greater chance of encountering wildlife in a more pristine setting. Reddit

Both parks are crucial for preserving the unique Atlantic Forest biome and its endemic species. The geological formations are a testament to the region's volcanic past and ongoing erosion processes. Visitors are encouraged to tread lightly and respect the natural environment to ensure its preservation for future generations. Reddit

Navigating Weather and Best Viewing Conditions

The weather in Cambará do Sul is famously capricious. Fog is a frequent visitor, especially during the summer months (December to March), and can completely obscure the canyon views, leading to disappointment for some travelers. This unpredictability is a significant factor to consider when planning your visit. Reddit

Many locals and experienced travelers recommend visiting during the winter months (June to August) for the best chance of clear skies and unobstructed views. The air is crisper, and the sunlight tends to be clearer, illuminating the canyon walls in a spectacular fashion. However, be prepared for colder temperatures during this season. Reddit

Even on foggy days, the atmosphere can be uniquely beautiful, creating a mystical and dramatic landscape. Some visitors have found that even with fog, the experience can still be rewarding, especially if they find local vendors selling delicious snacks like pastel. Reddit Ultimately, flexibility and a positive attitude are key to enjoying the natural beauty, regardless of the weather.

Community Insights on Park Access and Value

There's a notable sentiment among some visitors regarding the accessibility and perceived value of the national parks in this region. Some reviews express frustration with entrance fees and what they describe as commercialization, contrasting it with free-access parks in other parts of Brazil. Reddit

However, it's also highlighted that the government's support for these parks is limited, making donations and entrance fees crucial for their maintenance and operation. This perspective suggests that the fees are not just for profit but are essential for conservation efforts. Reddit

Despite these concerns, the overwhelming consensus is that the natural beauty of the canyons is unparalleled and absolutely worth visiting. The advice is to be prepared for the costs and to view them as contributions to preserving these magnificent natural heritage sites. Reddit

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