My visit to Capitólio, in the heart of Minas Gerais, revealed a paradise of waterfalls, emerald-green waters, and breathtaking viewpoints. It’s the perfect mix of adventure, nature, and peace—ideal for anyone looking to reconnect with the outdoors.
Arriving in the land of lakes
When I first reached Capitólio, I immediately understood why it’s called the “heart of the Furnas Lake region.” The landscape seemed endless, a mosaic of rolling hills and deep blue-green waters. Driving through the winding roads, I could already see the canyons in the distance, rising dramatically from the lake.
The unforgettable canyons of furnas
The most iconic attraction in Capitólio is without a doubt the Canyons of Furnas. I took one of the boat tours that leave from the Escarpas do Lago marina, and it was an unforgettable experience. The walls of the canyon rise over 20 meters high, with waterfalls cascading down between them, creating natural pools where you can swim. The sound of the water echoing through the cliffs was hypnotic, and diving into that cold, emerald water was pure therapy.
Waterfalls and hidden trails
Beyond the canyons, Capitólio hides dozens of waterfalls that are just as impressive. One of my favorites was the Cachoeira Lagoa Azul, where two streams form a series of small natural pools with bright turquoise tones. Another must-visit is Trilha do Sol, a private ecological area that offers a few kilometers of trails passing by beautiful falls like Cachoeira do Grito and Poço Dourado. Walking through these paths, surrounded by the Cerrado vegetation, I felt both the heat of the sun and the refreshing mist from the water—an ideal balance of effort and reward.
Gastronomy and local life
After so much exploration, I indulged in the local cuisine. Like any good town in Minas Gerais, Capitólio offers generous portions of traditional food—rice, beans, pork crackling, and the famous cheese bread. I had dinner at a small family-run restaurant overlooking the lake, where the owner told me about how the city’s tourism had grown since the discovery of the canyons. Despite the popularity, the town has managed to preserve its charm and slow rhythm of life.
The view from mirante dos canyons
Before leaving, I went up to the Mirante dos Canyons, one of the most famous viewpoints in Minas Gerais. From there, the panorama is surreal: Furnas Lake stretching into the horizon, the canyons cutting through the landscape, and the wind carrying the scent of wet stone and wild grass. I stayed there for a long time, just watching the sunset reflect on the water. It was the kind of silence that fills you rather than empties you.
Capitólio is a perfect destination for those who love nature and want a taste of adventure without giving up comfort. Between the boat rides, waterfalls, and peaceful town atmosphere, it’s a place that invites you to slow down and breathe. For me, it was more than just a trip—it was a reminder of how powerful and healing Brazil’s natural beauty can be.