Explore Vila Velha State Park: Sandstone Sculptures, Golden Lagoon & Furnas (Day Tour from Curitiba)
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
5 hours (including transport)
Fitness Level
Suitable for people with basic fitness—able to walk 3–4 km over uneven ground and climb short flights of steps.
Overview
Walk among otherworldly sandstone pillars, peer into emerald craters and watch the Golden Lagoon mirror the sky on this half-day tour from Curitiba. An expert guide illuminates the park’s deep geological history while short, maintained trails make the experience accessible to most travelers.
Explore Vila Velha State Park: Sandstone Sculptures, Golden Lagoon & Furnas (Day Tour from Curitiba)
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You step out of the van and the air changes—drier, dust-flecked, carrying the mineral scent of exposed rock. Ahead, a field of sandstone columns rises like a ruined city stripped of its mortar. The guide points to the Cup, a rounded column with a narrow neck and a broad bowl; wind and rain have carved it into a shape that looks intent on holding the sky.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Bring non-slip hiking shoes
Boardwalks and sandstone surfaces can be slick—choose shoes with good traction to stay sure-footed.
Start mid-morning for best light
Golden hour textures occur in the morning and late afternoon, but mid-morning balances light with cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
Pack water and sun protection
There’s limited shade on parts of the trail; carry at least 1–1.5 L of water and sunscreen.
Stay on marked trails
The formations are fragile—off-trail travel damages soil and accelerates erosion, and is prohibited.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Southern tamandua (anteater)
- Various hummingbird species around the lagoon
History
The park preserves Paleozoic-era sandstones heavily eroded over millennia; local communities historically used the highlands for grazing and as landmarks along travel routes.
Conservation
The park manages foot traffic with boardwalks and restricted zones to prevent erosion; visitors should follow marked trails and avoid climbing formations to protect fragile sandstone.
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Adventure Hotspots in Curitiba
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Hiking shoes with grip
Provides traction on boardwalks and sandstone slabs.
Daypack with water (1–1.5 L)
Keeps hydration and essentials handy during the 2-hour park walk.
summer specific
Light rain jacket
Protects against sudden showers common in Paraná.
spring specific
Wide-brim hat & sunscreen
Blocks sun on exposed sections of trail and at viewpoints.
summer specific