Challenge your limits on an epic journey along the Rio do Boi Trail, in the Southern Canyons Path Geopark
One of Brazil’s most challenging trails takes you inside the Itaimbezinho Canyon, on a route of overcoming, connection with nature, and breathtaking landscapes
Santa Catarina is a mosaic of natural beauties that delight at every corner. From its fine sandy beaches to mountains reaching 1,800 meters altitude, the state reveals diverse, warm, and surprising landscapes. At the far south lies the Southern Canyons Path Geopark, a UNESCO-recognized territory that holds among its valleys some of Brazil’s most impressive canyons.
The Geopark shelters two breathtaking national parks: Aparados da Serra National Park and Serra Geral National Park. The diversity of flora and fauna, combined with the grandeur of the rock formations, has made the region a favorite destination for geologists, environmentalists, and ecotourism lovers. Adventure tourism reigns, with options ranging from horseback riding along old drovers’ routes to rafting on cascading rivers.
The municipality of Praia Grande serves as the gateway to the parks, and sustainable tourism — especially ecotourism and adventure tourism — is growing, offering grand settings such as trails, waterfalls, natural pools, and extreme sports. But among all experiences, one stands out for its unique mix of challenge and reward: the Rio do Boi Trail, a journey that leads adventurers to follow the riverbed inside the famous Itaimbezinho Canyon.
MORE THAN A COMMON TRAIL
The Rio do Boi Trail is a radical immersion in nature, where every step requires balance, strength, and determination. If you seek an authentic connection with the wild landscape of the canyons, far from conventional viewpoints, get ready: the Rio do Boi will take you to the heart of this geological wonder, in an experience blending trekking, revitalizing swims, and the thrill of being surrounded by giant cliffs.
The journey begins in Praia Grande around 7:30 a.m. After meeting your guide, you hit the road to the park entrance. It’s a 12 km drive through stunning inland landscapes of Santa Catarina. Upon reaching the trailhead, an intense 1.5-hour hike through dense forest begins, with steep ascents and descents preparing your legs for the main challenge.
When you reach the Rio do Boi bank, the scenery transforms. Now, the path is the riverbed itself, with slippery stones and water ranging from ankle to waist height. There are approximately 20 river crossings along 14 km (round trip), where each step demands full attention.
The effort is rewarded with breathtaking views. Along the way, basalt cliffs rise over 500 meters, crystal-clear natural pools perfect for refreshing dips, and waterfalls cascading from great heights.
The highlight is reaching the canyon’s sanctuary, where one of the tallest cliffs (720 meters high) forms a natural amphitheater. It’s time to pause for a snack and contemplate nature before heading back.
Throughout the route, you can swim in natural pools patiently carved by water over millennia. The experience is enriched by a specialized guide who shares fascinating knowledge about local geology and the peculiar fauna during the entire trek.
ATTENTION! This trail cannot be done independently. Access is permitted only with accredited guides to ensure participant safety and site preservation. On heavy rain days, the activity is preemptively canceled because rising water volume and currents can make the route dangerous. As a courtesy, guides capture the best moments of the adventure, providing professional photos as keepsakes of this unique experience.
WHY IS THIS TRAIL UNIQUE?
This experience offers something truly exceptional. While most visitors are content admiring Itaimbezinho Canyon from its upper viewpoints, you will have the unique privilege of exploring it from within, through an intimate and rarely seen perspective. More than just a hike, this adventure is a full challenge testing your balance, physical strength, and perseverance at every river crossing, turning each step into a personal victory.
TRAIL INFORMATION
The ideal season for this experience runs from April to November, when water levels are lower and safer. It’s important to note this is a high difficulty activity (level 5), requiring good physical fitness. The package includes all essentials: experienced guide, safety equipment, trail snack, professional photo documentation, and insurance for peace of mind.
To ensure safety and comfort during this demanding journey, bring appropriate footwear — preferably slip-resistant sneakers or trekking boots — as well as long socks to prevent chafing during long hours of walking. Don’t forget a complete set of dry clothes, high-protection sunscreen, insect repellent, and an ergonomic backpack with good back ventilation. Above all, bring plenty of energy to face this challenge!
Ready to take on this transformative challenge? The indescribable feeling of being at the bottom of Itaimbezinho, completely surrounded by those vertical cliffs that seem to touch the sky, justifies every drop of sweat. After Rio do Boi, no ordinary trail will ever be the same!
HIGHLIGHTS
UNESCO – Geopark – Caminhos dos Cânions do Sul
Vitrine Visit Brasil Experience: Rio do Boi Trail: Southern Canyons Path Geopark
HOW TO GET THERE
Florianópolis International Airport – Hercílio Luz
Porto Alegre International Airport – Salgado Filho
By Car: From Florianópolis, take BR-101 to Praia Grande. From Porto Alegre, take BR-290 and BR-101 to Praia Grande.