Fortaleza Canyon: Trails, viewpoints, and the highest zip line in Latin America in a breathtaking setting
Explore the interior of the most imposing canyon in Brazil in a journey of endurance, connection with nature, and breathtaking landscapes.
In the far south of Brazil, Rio Grande do Sul displays its beauty in emblematic fashion. A land of plains, waterfalls, and mountains that alternate between the silence of the pampas and the whispering wind through the araucaria trees. The state’s natural diversity moves lovers of mountains, wine, and history. In this landscape lies the Caminhos dos Cânions do Sul Geopark, recognized by UNESCO as a territory of significant geological, environmental, and cultural value. It is home to the Serra Geral National Park with its vertical cliffs and deep valleys, carved over millions of years by rivers and wind.
The city of Cambará do Sul, the Land of Canyons, is the starting point to explore this world of rocks and grand landscapes. With its cool climate and welcoming atmosphere, the city is the gateway to the national park, where the majestic Fortaleza Canyon retains a wilder, more tranquil air. Its viewpoints offer panoramic views that, on clear days, stretch to the coast of Rio Grande do Sul, revealing a horizon where the mountains meet the sea. And for adventure seekers, there is an extra attraction: the highest zip line in Latin America, a radical experience that offers a unique perspective of this stone giant.
The harmonious combination of accessible trails, stunning viewpoints, and the thrill of the zip line creates a diverse and truly unforgettable experience. Ready to face this natural giant?
THE COMPLETE EXPERIENCE AT FORTALEZA CANYON
The adventure begins in Cambará do Sul, where you’ll meet the guide who will accompany you on this journey. The departure can be at 8:30 a.m. or 2:00 p.m. – your choice! From the meeting point, it’s time to hit the road to the entrance of the Serra Geral National Park. It’s about 23 km on a dirt road.
The experience includes two main trails totaling 7 km of hiking, lasting approximately 3 hours. The first, the Mirante Trail (3.5 km), leads to the spectacular Fortaleza Vertice, where the rock formations create a breathtaking natural amphitheater. On clear-sky days, the visual reward is even greater, allowing you to see the city of Torres, Praia Grande in Santa Catarina, and—under exceptional conditions—even the distant waters of the Atlantic Ocean.
The second trail, Pedra do Segredo (also 3.5 km), leads to an intriguing rock formation that seems to defy the laws of physics, balanced in a peculiar way and wrapped in local legends, eagerly shared by the guide. This point offers privileged views of the canyon’s interior. It feels like a scene straight out of a movie!
The highlight of the experience is undoubtedly the thrilling Fortaleza Zip Line. With an impressive length of 720 meters, this attraction starts at 1,092 meters of altitude and allows for a flight of up to 80 km/h over the abyss, offering a truly mind-blowing aerial perspective of this geological wonder. Up to three people can descend simultaneously, sharing the thrill and making the experience even more special for groups of friends or families.
ATTENTION!
To visit Fortaleza Canyon, it is necessary to purchase an entrance ticket to the park. You can buy a ticket that covers both the Itaimbezinho and Fortaleza Canyons, allowing for 3 single entries within 7 days from the first access. Another option includes one-time access to the Rio do Boi Trail and two entries to the Fortaleza and Itaimbezinho Canyons within 7 days. Tickets are sold at the physical ticket office or through the Urbia Cânions Verdes website (the concessionaire that manages the national parks).
WHAT MAKES FORTALEZA CANYON SO SPECIAL?
This destination offers unique panoramic views that, on clear days, reach the ocean and several cities in Rio Grande do Sul and Santa Catarina. Unlike the famous Itaimbezinho Canyon, Fortaleza has a quieter and more intimate atmosphere, far from the crowds. Not to mention that the highest zip line in Latin America provides a one-of-a-kind radical experience.
ESSENTIAL INFORMATION FOR THE TOUR
The total experience lasts 5 hours, including all transfers. The best time to visit is between April and November, when rainfall is less frequent. The package includes a specialized guide, internal transfer, mineral water, and insurance, ensuring safety and comfort throughout the adventure.
It is essential to bring non-slip footwear (trail shoes or boots), a windbreaker jacket (as mountain cold is common), sunscreen, and a cap or hat for protection, in addition to a camera or phone with a good camera to capture the stunning scenery. And of course, don’t forget the extra courage to face the spectacular zip line!
Fortaleza Canyon is the perfect destination for those seeking contact with untouched nature, a dose of adventure, and moments of peace far from conventional tourist routes. Fortaleza is not just a canyon. It’s a natural monument that humbles us, reminding us how small we are before the grandeur of nature. Dare to go where the mountains seem to meet the sky!
HIGHLIGHTS
UNESCO – Geopark – Caminhos dos Cânions do Sul
Vitrine Visit Brasil Experience: Fortaleza Canyon: Geopark Caminho dos Cânions do Sul
HOW TO GET THERE
Airport: Salgado Filho International Airport – Porto Alegre
By Car: Follow RS-020 or BR-290, BR-101, RS-486, and RS-020 to Cambará do Sul
By Bus: The Citral company offers the route Porto Alegre / Cambará do Sul