In Minas Gerais, Brazil, the town of Conceição do Mato Dentro is a must-visit destination for tourists and residents.
It’s known for the Tabuleiro waterfall, the highest in the state and the third in Brazil.
Beyond this giant of Minas Gerais lies an unexplored path worth the hours of hiking—the ‘Rota das 10 Cachoeiras’ or ‘Route of 10 Waterfalls’.
Established in 2017 by the State Forestry Institute (IEF) and the local council, this route highlights more of the area’s natural beauty.
It spans 91 kilometers, including a round trip, through the Serra do Intendente State Park and the Tabuleiro Natural Park.
The route connects the parks with ecological pathways, varying in difficulty from easy to challenging.
Along the trail, hikers pass through Quilombola communities like Três Barras and Tabuleiro. To complete the full trek on foot, tourists should plan for about eight days.
There’s also an option to walk the route over multiple days, visiting different sections separately.
The journey features several waterfalls, including Três Barras, Peixe Cru, and Congonhas.
However, the Tabuleiro waterfall has been closed since November 13, 2023, due to risks of rockslides.
Exploring the Beauty of Serra do Intendente
Marcos Alexandre dos Santos, the head of the Serra do Intendente State Park, designed the route to optimize hiking time and introduce tourists to local Minas Gerais culture.
However, this route also promotes community-based tourism. It offers locals a livelihood through guiding services, accommodations, and regional trade.
The Rota das 10 Cachoeiras Association, formed about three years ago, develops local tourism.
The association’s headquarters, located at the start of the trail, provides information and support to tourists.
Beth Diana, head of the association, encourages visitors to come and experience the area’s beauty.
In addition, the route is divided into sections, each offering unique experiences.
- Section A is the shortest and easiest, stretching 5.7 kilometers from Três Barras to Cubas.
- Section B, known for its steep hills, is more challenging but offers stunning views.
- In addition, Section C, linking Tabuleiro to Parauninha, is moderately difficult.
- Finally, Section D, the second-longest, offers breathtaking landscapes.
The city hall of Conceição do Mato Dentro highlights the diversity of waterfalls and rich biodiversity along the route.
Tabuleiro Natural Park alone boasts over 106 animal species and more than three thousand plant species.
In short, with 16,500 visitors between January and October 2023, the park’s popularity among tourists is evident.