About 250 kilometers from the capital of São Paulo lies Eldorado, the ideal destination to recharge your batteries and enjoy ecotourism in the state’s interior. This tourist resort, home to 13,000 residents, is nestled in the heart of the Ribeira Valley and forms part of the iconic Atlantic Forest Caves Route.
The municipality is remarkable for its vast green spaces: about 70% of its territory remains covered by native vegetation. This natural wealth led the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to recognize Eldorado asa “Natural WorldHeritage Site,” bringing international attention to this picturesque city in São Paulo.
Furthermore, the large area of preserved Atlantic Forest has earned the region the nickname “São Paulo’s Amazon.” In other words, you no longer need to travel all the way to northern Brazil to experience the charms of the tropical forests.
The Hidden Mysteries of the Devil’s Cave
The largest and most impressive ecotourism attraction in the city is, by far, the Devil’s Cave. Stretching approximately 8,000 meters, this geological formation is recognized by experts as one of the most extraordinary on the planet! And for good reason: its interior is home to stalactites and stalagmites, stone curtains, and underground rivers and lakes that intrigue both visitors and researchers alike.
Although the first scientific expedition took place in 1891, indigenous peoples and Quilombolas had already been inhabiting the cave for centuries. Its peculiar name actually originated from these peoples’ custom of storing their harvest at the cave’s entrance. When they noticed the food had been rummaged through by animals, they believed its disappearance was the result of hauntings. Furthermore, the echo of the water inside the cave was mistaken for voices, which reinforced the myth that the place was haunted.
To date, researchers have mapped 6,500 meters of the Devil’s Cave, which formed over thousands of years. However, the general public can visit only 700 meters of it, always accompanied by a certified guide. This is because, in this section, the cave features stairways, walkways, and bridges that ensure a safe visit.
Along the way, you canadmire impressive stone monuments, such as the Cathedral Hall, which gained fame for its resemblance to the imposing architecture of Gothic churches.
Beyond the underground tour: what to do in Eldorado (SP)?
The “Amazônia Paulista” holds much more than the mysteries of its rocky depths. At Caverna do Diabo State Park, tourists can also enjoy the Meu Deus Waterfall, the most famous of Eldorado’s waterfalls. With a drop of 53 meters, it earned its name for leaving visitors in awe of its grandeur.
Ecotourism continues along the trails and springs of Vale das Ostras, or at the panoramic view from Mirante do Governador. Furthermore, if you enjoy ethnic and cultural tourism, a must-see is the Quilombo de Ivaporunduva, which offers an immersion in the ancestral traditions of Afro-Brazilian culture.
When planning your trip from São Paulo, it’s worth keeping an eye on the season: those visiting from May through September will find drier weather, perfect for hiking and outdoor activities. The rainy season, however, from October through April, offers a much greener and more lush landscape.
