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The Southern Canyons Region
Located in the southernmost part of Santa Catarina, on the border with Rio Grande do Sul, the Canyons of Southern Brazil region is one of the country’s most breathtaking natural landscapes.
It is home to Parque Nacional de Aparados da Serra and Parque Nacional da Serra Geral — guardians of iconic formations such as Itaimbezinho, Fortaleza, Malacara, and Churriado canyons.
The towering vertical cliffs that carve through the landscape, the crystal-clear rivers winding through the valleys, and the highland grasslands that shift in color with the seasons create a setting of rare beauty and unique energy.
But the experience goes far beyond nature.
Between trails, viewpoints, and waterfalls, visitors also discover the flavors of colonial cuisine, regional handicrafts, and the genuine hospitality of rural communities — a territory where culture and nature walk hand in hand.
Praia Grande — A Capital dos Cânions
The city of Praia Grande, known as the Capital of the Canyons, is the main gateway to explore this unique territory.
The region is part of the Geoparque Caminhos dos Cânions do Sul, recognized by UNESCO for its geological heritage of international significance — a designation that reinforces the environmental, scientific, and cultural importance of this destination.
Parques Nacionais Aparados da Serra e Serra Geral
At the heart of the Canyons of Southern Brazil region lie two of the country’s greatest natural treasures: Parque Nacional de Aparados da Serra and Parque Nacional da Serra Geral. Together, they protect monumental landscapes, towering canyons, and a unique biodiversity that captivates visitors from all over the world.
Aparados da Serra
Cânion Itaimbezinho
Created in 1959, Aparados da Serra National Park is one of the oldest national parks in Brazil and is home to the iconic Itaimbezinho Canyon, with vertical cliffs reaching up to 720 meters (2,360 ft) high and stretching 5.8 km (3.6 miles) in length.
Rim Trails:
The Vértice and Cotovelo trails offer breathtaking panoramic views of the canyon, with easy and safe access along the upper edges.
Inside the Canyon:
For the more adventurous, the Rio do Boi Trail follows the riverbed within Itaimbezinho itself. Surrounded by natural pools, giant rock walls, and dramatic landscapes, it is an unforgettable experience — guided by accredited local conductors, as offered by Canyons do Sul.
Serra Geral
Fortaleza, Malacara e muito mais
Alongside Aparados da Serra, Serra Geral National Park protects some of the most extensive and impressive canyons in Brazil, including Fortaleza, Malacara, and Churriado.
Rim Experiences:
At Fortaleza Canyon, the trails lead to breathtaking natural viewpoints, the iconic Pedra do Segredo (Secret Stone), and the Tigre Preto Waterfall — revealing the full grandeur of the Serra Geral escarpments.
Inside the Canyons:
Canyons do Sul also leads guided experiences inside Fortaleza and Malacara canyons, walking along rivers, crossing rocky paths, and exploring dramatic geological formations in an atmosphere of adventure and deep connection with nature.
A Unique Natural Heritage
Recognized as part of the Geoparque Caminhos dos Cânions do Sul — designated by UNESCO — these parks are essential conservation areas that protect rare ecosystems of the Atlantic Forest and the Highland Grasslands. Visitation is carefully managed, ensuring nature preservation while providing visitors with an authentic and safe experience.
With Canyons do Sul, you have the opportunity to experience Parque Nacional de Aparados da Serra and Parque Nacional da Serra Geral in their true essence — whether admiring the breathtaking views from the rims or exploring the depths of the canyons.
Discover the land of canyons and create unforgettable moments with us.
The Tourism Development Project of the Geoparque Caminhos dos Cânions do Sul is an initiative led by Sebrae, in partnership with local city halls, organizations, and institutions. Its goal is to strengthen and integrate the region’s tourism products and services, enhancing its geological, natural, and cultural heritage.
The Georrota Canyons do Sul is one of the key outcomes of this project.
The Georrota Canyons do Sul offers an unparalleled immersion in nature, connecting the highlands to the coastline across a region of extraordinary beauty. Covering the UNESCO Global Geopark Caminhos dos Cânions do Sul, it includes the municipalities of Praia Grande, Jacinto Machado, Morro Grande, and Timbé do Sul in Santa Catarina, as well as Cambará do Sul, Mampituba, and Torres in Rio Grande do Sul.
This destination combines spectacular natural attractions — including some of the largest canyons in Latin America, paleoburrows (paleotocas), waterfalls, and crystal-clear rivers — with a rich and vibrant local culture. Carefully designed itineraries cater to different traveler profiles, offering everything from ecological trails and boat tours to complete geotourism experiences.
Beyond admiring dramatic geological formations and grand landscapes, visitors can savor regional cuisine and unwind in the midst of lush nature.
The Georrota stands out for valuing both natural and cultural heritage, ensuring visitors enjoy a complete experience — from adventure to relaxation — in one of Brazil’s most captivating settings.