Explore 300-million-year-old sandstone formations at Vila Velha and a dramatic 30-meter waterfall at Buraco do Padre on this full-day tour from Curitiba. Easy to moderate walks, accessible paths and scenic rural roads make for a rewarding day in the Campos Gerais.
Explore 300-million-year-old sandstone formations at Vila Velha and a dramatic 30-meter waterfall at Buraco do Padre on this full-day tour from Curitiba. Easy to moderate walks, accessible paths and scenic rural roads make for a rewarding day in the Campos Gerais.
You step out of the air-conditioned van and the plateau breathes around you — wind shaping shelves of rust-colored sandstone, scrub grasses rattling like a coarse whisper. The walkways at Vila Velha guide you past towering mushroom and tower formations carved over 300 million years; the rocks hold the slow grammar of time and the Campo Geral’s open skies frame each view.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Special Paraná · Ponta Grossa, Paraná
You step out of the air-conditioned van and the plateau breathes around you — wind shaping shelves of rust-colored sandstone, scrub grasses rattling like a coarse whisper. The walkways at Vila Velha guide you past towering mushroom and tower formations carved over 300 million years; the rocks hold the slow grammar of time and the Campo Geral’s open skies frame each view.
Geology here is the story: sandstone laid down in ancient deserts, sculpted by rain and wind into cups, towers and collapsed furnas (sinkholes). Local culture grew around these landmarks — small rural towns and cattle trails that cross the plateau — and names such as Lagoa Dourada reflect the clear, mineral-stained pools that catch light like a copper coin.
The second act, Buraco do Padre, arrives after dirt roads and a short trail: a 30‑meter-high waterfall dropping into a cave-like bowl. The path is renovated and largely accessible; for the more adventurous there’s an intermediate Favo trail to the rim, and a zip line for a different perspective.
Practical guidance: expect a long day — 10–11 hours total including roughly 3 hours in Vila Velha and 2.5 hours driving back. Wear sturdy shoes for steps and uneven boardwalks, carry 2 liters of water, and bring sun and rain protection; weather can change quickly on the plateau. Respect signage — the sandstone is fragile and off-trail walking accelerates erosion.
This tour suits travelers who want high-return viewing with moderate effort and reliable infrastructure — bathrooms, snack options and clear trails make it a good fit for mixed groups.
The full-day tour runs about 10–11 hours from Curitiba, with roughly 1.5 hours to Vila Velha, an hour to Buraco do Padre, and a 2.5-hour return transfer included in the total time.
Yes — main walkways at Vila Velha and the revitalized 1 km trail to Buraco do Padre are designed for accessibility, though some viewpoints may involve steps.
Admission tickets to Vila Velha Park and Buraco do Padre are included; bring snacks or buy from on-site kiosks as full meals may not be provided during visits.
Yes — the Trilha do Favo and routes to the waterfall rim are available as intermediate options but may be excluded depending on group ability and time; ask the guide.
Special Paraná operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.




You step out of the air-conditioned van and the plateau breathes around you — wind shaping shelves of rust-colored sandstone, scrub grasses rattling like a coarse whisper. The walkways at Vila Velha guide you past towering mushroom and tower formations carved over 300 million years; the rocks hold the slow grammar of time and the Campo Geral’s open skies frame each view.
You step out of the air-conditioned van and the plateau breathes around you — wind shaping shelves of rust-colored sandstone, scrub grasses rattling like a coarse whisper. The walkways at Vila Velha guide you past towering mushroom and tower formations carved over 300 million years; the rocks hold the slow grammar of time and the Campo Geral’s open skies frame each view.
Geology here is the story: sandstone laid down in ancient deserts, sculpted by rain and wind into cups, towers and collapsed furnas (sinkholes). Local culture grew around these landmarks — small rural towns and cattle trails that cross the plateau — and names such as Lagoa Dourada reflect the clear, mineral-stained pools that catch light like a copper coin.
The second act, Buraco do Padre, arrives after dirt roads and a short trail: a 30‑meter-high waterfall dropping into a cave-like bowl. The path is renovated and largely accessible; for the more adventurous there’s an intermediate Favo trail to the rim, and a zip line for a different perspective.
Practical guidance: expect a long day — 10–11 hours total including roughly 3 hours in Vila Velha and 2.5 hours driving back. Wear sturdy shoes for steps and uneven boardwalks, carry 2 liters of water, and bring sun and rain protection; weather can change quickly on the plateau. Respect signage — the sandstone is fragile and off-trail walking accelerates erosion.
This tour suits travelers who want high-return viewing with moderate effort and reliable infrastructure — bathrooms, snack options and clear trails make it a good fit for mixed groups.