PETAR · Alto Ribeira State Tourist Park · São Paulo

Into the heart of the Atlantic Forest.

Explore caves, dive into crystal-clear rivers and breathe in one of the most preserved areas of the Atlantic Forest. Guided adventures in PETAR by AMTOURS.

Caves, rivers & waterfalls Guided visits only Gateway: São Paulo
Explore PETAR with AMTOURS

More than a destination: a sanctuary.

Hidden deep in Brazil's Atlantic Forest, PETAR, the Alto Ribeira State Tourist Park, offers one of the most authentic and thrilling ecotourism experiences in the country.

It is known for spectacular caves, untouched rainforest and strong cultural traditions: a true sanctuary for nature lovers, adventurers and curious travellers looking for more than a destination.

Whether you hike among ancient trees, swim in natural pools or descend into a hidden cave, PETAR offers a rare chance to reconnect with the Earth, and with yourself.

Visitors silhouetted at the huge mouth of a cave opening onto the Atlantic Forest in PETAR
Cave entrances
River flowing out of a limestone cave surrounded by rainforest in PETAR, Iporanga
Rivers from the rock
What to explore

Underground, in the forest, with the people.

Spectacular caves

Dramatic underground landscapes shaped over millions of years, with stunning rock formations and echoing chambers.

Underground rivers

Walk and wade through crystal-clear rivers that flow through the caves, in a surreal, unforgettable atmosphere.

Forest trails & waterfalls

Trails through dense jungle lead to waterfalls, rivers and panoramic views of the park's rich biodiversity.

Natural pools

Swim in clear rivers and natural pools after a day of exploring.

Quilombola communities

Traditional quilombola and rural communities welcome visitors to share their customs, food and stories.

Sustainable, guided visits

Every visit is guided and designed so that tourism helps protect one of the most preserved areas of the Atlantic Forest.

Where to stay

Comfort in the middle of the forest.

Pool surrounded by palm trees and wooden decks at Glamping Mangarito in the Atlantic Forest
Glamping

Glamping Mangarito

Palm trees, wooden decks and a pool surrounded by forest: a comfortable base to return to after a day in the caves.

  • Pool
  • Surrounded by forest
  • Glamping
Ask about Mangarito
Your way

Other pousadas

From simple lodges near the caves to cosy pousadas in the Ribeira Valley, we choose the stay that fits your trip.

Find my stay
Explore with confidence

Everything you need, taken care of.

PETAR is one of the most preserved areas of the Atlantic Forest, one of the world's most threatened ecosystems. We explore it with care.

  1. Local guidesLocal guides are the heart and soul of the PETAR experience. With deep knowledge of the caves, the trails, the weather and the local culture, they keep your journey safe, immersive and unforgettable.
  2. Best seasonThe drier months, from about April to September, are the best time to go. It can rain at any time of year in the Atlantic Forest, and some caves close after heavy rain, so we always keep a plan B.
  3. Equipment, meals and insuranceWe provide all the necessary equipment, such as helmets and headlamps, as well as meals and travel health insurance, for a safe and comfortable experience.
Getting there

From São Paulo to the Ribeira Valley.

  • Fly to São Paulo. Brazil's main international gateway.
  • Private transfer to Iporanga. Around five hours by road to the Ribeira Valley.
  • Into the caves. Your local guide meets you with helmets and headlamps.
FAQ

PETAR, answered.

What travellers ask us most before a trip to PETAR.

What is PETAR?

PETAR, the Alto Ribeira State Tourist Park (Parque Estadual Turístico do Alto Ribeira), is a protected area in the south of São Paulo state, in the towns of Iporanga and Apiaí. It protects one of the most preserved areas of the Atlantic Forest and is famous for its limestone caves.

Can I visit the caves without a guide?

No. Visits to the caves of PETAR must be made with an accredited local guide, who also provides helmets and headlamps. AMTOURS includes the guides in every program.

How do I get to PETAR from São Paulo?

PETAR is in the Ribeira Valley, around five hours by road south-west of the city of São Paulo. AMTOURS organises a private transfer from São Paulo.

Is visiting the caves physically demanding?

It depends on the cave. Some visits are short walks on trails, while others involve wading through rivers, climbing over rocks and crawling through narrow passages. We choose the caves according to your fitness and experience.

When is the best time to visit PETAR?

The drier months, roughly from April to September, are the most reliable. Caves with rivers can close after heavy rain, so it is good to keep a few flexible days.

Contact

Ready to go underground?

Tell us your dates, your group size and your experience. We organise local guides, equipment, meals, insurance, your stay and the transfer from São Paulo.

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