Cananeia and PETAR Regions

Hi there! I’m putting together my itinerary for Brazil, looking for beautiful natural spots with wildlife, flora, and great hikes... I’ve come across the Cananeia / Super Agui / Ilha do Mel region and the PETAR / Intervales / Alto Ribeira area. Has anyone here been to these places? If so, do you have any recommendations for accommodations and activities? Thanks in advance! Best, Olivier 🌍

Hi Olivier,

Unfortunately, I don’t have an answer to share... but I’m really interested in any responses you might get 😇. I’m actually planning a trip to Brazil (though not for another year or two) combined with Iguazu Falls. The idea is to land in São Paulo, spend a few days around Paraty, and explore a bit of the countryside without taking another flight (probably by renting a car).

When’s your trip planned for? Happy planning.

Hello,

I imagine that if you’ve spotted these places, you’re planning to visit Iguazu Falls—it’s really not to be missed and is one of the wonders of Latin America.

I’m not familiar with these spots myself, but I saw a Brazilian documentary about Ilha do Mel, and it seems like a paradise island perfect for relaxing and bike rides (sand-friendly bikes) or walking. Check out the tons of videos on YouTube!

For those interested in art, architecture, and culture, I recommend visiting the Oscar Niemeyer Museum in Curitiba, which is in the same state as Ilha do Mel (about a hundred kilometers away). It’s one of the most original creations by the great Brazilian architect, and the exhibitions are top-notch. The museum is definitely worth a look. And Curitiba is a cool city with urban parks where capybaras sunbathe, among other things.

On the other hand, I wouldn’t recommend Parque Vila Velha near Curitiba. It’s stunning in photos, but there’s not much to see in person. If it’s on your planned route, sure, but otherwise, it’s not worth making a detour.

I don’t know when you’re going, but in July and August—Brazil’s winter—it gets *really* cold in Paraná (I had no idea it could get that cold in Brazil!). At least that’s the case in Curitiba.