If you’re touring Brazil and need a break from the hectic city life of São Paulo, head to Brotas. But don’t plan to kick back and relax. Located in the heart of the state of São Paulo, Brotas is known as Brazil’s “Capital of Ecotourism.” Boasting over 70 waterfalls and rivers, Brotas is the perfect destination for nature lovers and thrill seekers alike.

Born in the days of the 19th century coffee boom, Brotas’ local residents are descendants of Italian and Portuguese settlers who immigrated to work on coffee plantations. But Brotas is no longer just about coffee. While the town continues to base its economy on livestock and agriculture, Brotas has realized that its future primarily lies in ecotourism thanks to the region’s abundance of water sources, the most prominent being the Jacaré-Pepira River.

The peak time to visit Brotas is in the summer, which tends to be rainy, but, as a result, leaves the rivers full and ideal for rafting. Visitors can also enjoy hiking along beautiful, lush trails that lead to crystal clear springs and breathtaking waterfalls, as well as partake in exciting outdoor activities such as canyoning, rappelling, kayaking, biking and off-roading. If you’re looking for beauty and adventure, Brotas is the place to be.

Cachoeiras do Cassorova
There are plenty of water “hot spots” to check out while in Brotas. The Cassorova’s Waterfalls, or Cachoeiras do Cassorova, is one of the most beautiful in the region. Located approximately 25 miles from downtown Brotas, these majestic mountaintop falls beckon the tourist with their fine swirling mists and raging water chutes.

Cachoeiras do Astor
Nearby are the two-tiered Astor Waterfalls, or Cachoeiras do Astor. It’s an easy trek to the first tier, which offers visitors ideal swimming conditions. The second tier requires navigating a more challenging trail, but by all reports is worth the effort.

Cachoeira dos Macacos
If you want to get up close and personal with nature, drop in at Cachoeira dos Macacos, or the Waterfall of the Monkeys. Here you can see monkeys bathing or lounging by the falls. Because it is located high in the mountains, these falls are not very crowded except for on the weekends. This is a wonderful place to relax and spend some quiet time without the hustle and bustle of tourists and cars around.

Recanto das Cachoeiras
These two waterfalls formed from springs that fall off the river Jacaré. The Cachoeira Santo Antonio is easily accessible, but reaching the Cachoeira da Roseira is a bit more difficult as they are accessed through a narrow cavern by way of a steep trail. The Recanto das Cachoeiras are located high in the mountains, but are fairly close to Brotas proper.

Parque dos Saltos
Parque dos Saltos, or Park of the Jumps, is located within the Brotas urban area. The park’s waterfalls and rapids are often featured on Brotas postcards and tourism posters because of its picturesque natural beauty. There is an annual canoeing championship on the river, and locals take advantage of the scenic tranquil surroundings of the park on weekends and weekdays. Grab a sandwich and find what the locals already know--that the Parque dos Saltos is a definite must-see in Brotas.

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