Stand on the rim of one of Latin America’s largest canyons and walk two easy rim trails that reveal waterfalls, Araucaria forests and 700‑meter basalt walls. This full‑day tour from Gramado or Canela pairs short hikes with a riverside picnic at Aparados da Serra.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Sunrise on the rim slices the canyon in half: light on the basalt, shadow in the 700‑meter drop. Walking the edges at Aparados da Serra feels like pacing the spine of the earth — sheer walls carved by rivers over millennia, jagged strata exposing ancient lava flows while Araucaria pines crowd the plateau above.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
8–9 hours (full‑day tour)
Fitness Level
Suitable for light fitness — short walks of 45 minutes to 2.5 hours on mostly flat terrain; able-bodied seniors and families can participate
Wildlife
History
The canyon formed from basaltic lava flows during the Paraná flood basalt events, later sculpted by rivers and glaciation; the surrounding pampas have long been used for grazing by gaúcho communities.
Conservation
Aparados da Serra is a protected national park with regulated access; stick to marked trails, avoid littering and respect wildlife to help preserve fragile cliff and forest habitats.
Reserve your spot on the Canyon Adventure: Trail & Picnic Experience at Itaimbezinho today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Start early
Morning light reduces wind and improves visibility at the lookouts — aim to arrive at the park entrance with the guide’s first stop.
Bring 1–2 liters of water
Trails are short but exposed; hydration matters, especially on sunny or windy plateau days.
Solid footwear
Trails are flat but include compact dirt and rocky viewpoints—grippy hiking shoes improve stability.
Carry ID and booking info
Park entry and tour confirmation require IDs (passport for foreigners, RG for Brazilians) sent after booking.
Hiking shoes or trail runners
Provide traction and ankle support on uneven viewpoints.
Sun protection (hat, SPF 30+)
High plateau sun and reflective rock increase UV exposure.
summer
Light waterproof layer
Rain and wind can come quickly on the plateau; pack a compact shell.
spring
Reusable water bottle (1–2L)
Staying hydrated is important during the hikes and picnic.