Vila Velha State Park Day Tour from Curitiba — Sandstone Formations & Golden Lagoon
A five‑hour guided day trip from Curitiba brings you to Vila Velha State Park’s dramatic sandstone sculptures, the reflective Golden Lagoon and the deep Furnas craters. This accessible tour pairs short, interpretive walks with round‑trip transportation and expert narration on the area’s geological history.
The Experience
Before You Go
Footwear matters
Trails are mostly compacted earth and stone steps—wear sturdy hiking shoes with good grip to handle slick boardwalks and dusty slopes.
Hydrate for exposure
There’s little shade on the plateau; carry at least 1–1.5 L of water per person, more in summer.
Best light for photos
Aim for morning or late afternoon when low light deepens shadows and the Golden Lagoon produces mirror reflections.
Respect restricted rims
Some Furnas rims are off-limits to prevent erosion—follow signage and your guide’s directions to avoid fines and damage.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Walk the lesser‑used trail behind the Cup formation for a different angle and quieter light
- •Observe the lagoon’s edge at low wind for near‑perfect reflections and subtle lichen detail on the rocks
Wildlife
- •Capybara
- •Toucan
Conservation Note
As a state park, Vila Velha is managed to protect geological features and native grassland—stay on trails, don’t remove rock or plants, and follow guide instructions.
The park’s sandstone formations were exposed from the Paraná Basin and sculpted by wind and water over millions of years; settlers and indigenous communities later named and used the landscape.
Photographer's Notes
- • The Cup formation rim for scale and texture photos
- • Golden Lagoon shoreline for reflections
- • Furnas rim for panoramic plateau shots
What to Bring
Sturdy hiking shoesEssential
Grip and ankle support for rocky steps and boardwalks.
Sun protection (hat + sunscreen)Essential
The plateau is exposed and the sun can be intense.
Reusable water bottle (1–1.5 L)Essential
Keeps you hydrated on dry, open trails.
Light rain jacket
Afternoon showers are common in warmer months; pack a compressible shell.
Common Questions
How long is the tour and what’s included?
The tour is approximately five hours and includes private round‑trip transportation from Curitiba, entrance fees, and a specialist guide.
Is this tour suitable for children and seniors?
Yes—additional info notes it is physically easy and suitable for all fitness levels; stroller access is possible in some areas but check with the operator about specific sections.
How much walking is involved and is there steep terrain?
Walks are short loops totaling roughly 2–4 km with modest steps and under about 100 m of cumulative elevation gain; trails are generally manageable for most walkers.
Can I take photos at the Golden Lagoon and Furnas?
Yes—photography is allowed; early morning or late afternoon gives the best reflections. Respect any restricted zones near fragile formations.
Will we see wildlife on the tour?
You may spot local birds and small mammals near water and in the scrub; wildlife sightings are common but not guaranteed.
What should I bring for weather changes?
Bring layers for cool mornings, sun protection for midday exposure, and a lightweight rain jacket for summer showers.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
5 hours
Location
Ponta Grossa, Paraná
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for light to moderate fitness; participants should be comfortable walking 2–4 km on uneven terrain.
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