One of the highlights of the Alto Ribeira State Tourist Park (PETAR), the Betari River is located between the cities of Apiaí and Iporanga, in southern São Paulo. Its valley is the main point of visitation in the park, the Santana Center. The reason for the high demand is the variety of things to do there, such as ecotourism, trails, waterfalls, and caves.
The Betari River is part of the Ribeira Guadalupe River basin. It is small to medium in size and very popular for its cold, crystal clear waters, with visibility above 10 meters, and natural pools surrounded by the Atlantic Forest.
Archaeological evidence
The stories recorded in the caves and caverns indicate the ancient presence of humans in the valley region. The first research dates back t , in 1960, when geologists mapped and explored the caves after noticing the archaeological importance of the still-preserved sites.
In addition, in 1990, the archaeologists De Blasis and Robrahn discovered a corridor used by indigenous peoples in pre-colonial times in the Betari basin region.
In light of these discoveries, the park was considered an archaeological heritage site. Currently, it serves as a basis for educational information material, lectures, and base text for guides who present Núcleo Santana to tourists.
What to do in the region and on the Betari River?
Betari River Trail
With a linear route of 7 kilometers, the trail runs along the river of the same name and is home to the Atlantic Forest, considered the region with the most beautiful view in the entire state park. Along the way, visitors can also admire the caves with their archaeological discoveries. The trail ends at the Andorinhas and Betarizinho waterfalls.
Natural pool of the Betari River
The stretch is famous for its calmness and shallow depth, and is normally used for swimming after hiking and visiting caves. In addition to cooling off in the clean waters, visitors also often have picnics there to make the most of nature.
It is also possible to include activities such as boia-cross in the itinerary through the region’s rapids, which end in natural pools.
Valley Viewpoint
The viewpoint is located 80 meters from the park entrance, with a 30-minute trail to reach the top. At an altitude of 360 meters, the viewpoint offers a privileged view of the mosaic of forest and the cave system in all its exuberance.