Of PETAR’s 4 centers, Núcleo Santana is the most visited in the Park. The main caves of the park are located there and can be accessed via the Rota das Cavernas, on the stretch of the SP-165 highway, between the municipalities of Apiaí and Iporanga.
Check out the main attractions of Santana Visitation Center (Núcleo Santana)
Santana Cave (Caverna de Santana)
The Santana Cave – The Santana Cave is the largest cave in PETAR, it is more than 9 km (5.59 mile) long, but, due to security measures, only 500 meters (1640ft) are open for visitation, in a section that includes the entrance and exit through the same local.
During the visit it is possible to observe different types of rock formations, such as stalagmites, stalactites, flows, mini waterfalls, water curtains, among other formations.
Morro Preto Cave (Caverna do Morro Preto)
The Morro Preto Cave – This is approximately 830 meters (2624ft) long, however, due to safety measures, the visit takes place over an average stretch of 200 meters (656ft), including the entrance and exit through the same location.
The cave has a large entrance portico, around 15 meters (49ft) high, which allows light to enter the interior of its large halls. During the visit, it is possible to observe several rock formations that make up the ceiling of the cave, such as large fissures and luminous cracks.
Couto Cave (Caverna do Couto)
The Couto Cave – This is 471 meters (1545ft) long and has a difference in level of 26 meters (85ft) . The visit begins through a small side opening next to Cachoeira do Couto. During the journey, it is possible to walk the entire length of the cave until reaching the exit through Córrego do Couto, a large portico over 10 meters high (32ft).
Água Suja Cave (Caverna da Água Suja)
Dirty Water Cave – 2989 meters long, only 800 meters are open to visitors. During the visit, it is possible to observe the presence of ceramic materials, remains of fires and a large quantity of small bones and shells of molluscs, which demonstrates that at some point in history, there was a human occupation of the cave. The cave is a true archaeological site.
Cafezal Cave (Caverna do Cafezal)
Cafezal Cave – Located on the Betari trail, the cave has approximately 1200 meters of trail. During the visit, it is possible to admire its beautiful rock formations and speleothems such as button-shaped stalactites and circles.
Andorinha Waterfall – Cachoeira das Andorinha
Andorinha Waterfall – This is considered by many to be the most beautiful waterfall in PETAR, it is located at the end of the Betari River trail. To get to the waterfall, you have to cross the river several times, in a stretch that can take up to 3 hours of walking. At the end of the trail, the view of the waterfall is worth all the effort. This is considered by many to be the most beautiful waterfall in PETAR, it is located at the end of the Betari River trail. To get to the waterfall, you have to cross the river several times, in a stretch that can take up to 3 hours of walking. At the end of the trail, the view of the waterfall is worth all the effort.
Betarizinho Waterfall or Beija Flor Waterfall
Betarizinho or Beija Flor Waterfall – Located just over 100 meters (328ft) from Cachoeira das Andorinhas, it has a much smaller volume of water, which allows visitors to pass under its waterfall. The cave also has a beautiful natural pool.
Couto Waterfall (Cachoeira do Couto)
Couto Waterfall – How about taking a nice refreshing bath in a natural pool with extremely crystal clear water? This waterfall is perfect for a photo shoot, especially when the sun’s rays fall directly on the water, forming beautiful rainbows.
Betari Trail (Trilha do Betari)
The Betari Trail – It is more than 7 km (4.34 mile) in the middle of the preserved Atlantic Forest. The trail runs along the entire Betari River, passing through caves, waterfalls, obstacles and immense rock walls. The trail is one of the favorite attractions of those who visit PETAR.
Betari Natural Swimming Pool (Piscina Natural do Betari)
The Betari Natural Pool – Very close to the Monitores kiosk, the Betari River natural pool is surrounded by the natural beauty of the Atlantic Forest. The swimming pool has ample space for adults and children to enjoy its crystal clear waters. It is a perfect environment to rest, refresh and recharge your energy.
Santana Lookout (Mirante de Santana)
The Santana Lookout- A stunning view. The Santana Viewpoint allows you to contemplate all the natural richness of the Atlantic Forest, through its mountains, mountains and gorges. The place is perfect for a great photo session and watching birds that only exist in this region.
