Twin Sinkholes
The Passo do Pupo sinkholes are part of the Campos Gerais National Park, a Strict Protection Conservation Unit managed by ICMBio.
Furnas are crater-like holes, “collapse pits” formed by the flow of groundwater through fractures. They are of great ecological importance, as they carry water deep underground, recharging the Furnas Aquifer. They feature a distinct microclimate, cooler than the surrounding area, due to the presence of shade, trees, and humidity.
There are several furnas in our region, the vast majority of which are located within the so-called Vila Velha Depression, where our village of Passo do Pupo is situated. In Passo do Pupo, various types of sinkholes can be observed, the main ones being the Furnas Gêmeas and the Furna Grande, which are “dry” sinkholes that have not yet reached the water table.
The region’s biodiversity is evident in its flora and fauna; various bird species can be observed here, and, with a bit of luck, some terrestrial animals such as the bush dog, wildcat, susuarana, pampas deer, catingueiro deer, armadillo, irara, maned wolf, etc. These are interesting places for birdwatching, enjoying the scenery and its beautiful sunsets, exploring geodiversity, and participating in outdoor activities (hiking along interpretive trails, sports, and adventure tourism).
In addition to the fauna, a variety of plant species can be seen in the region, ranging from beautiful araucarias and imbuias to species found in rocky fields, such as the ball cactus, queen of the abyss, petunia, bromeliads, and orchids.
The tour begins at the Refúgio das Curucacas, where participants receive a briefing with important information, sign the Risk Acknowledgment Form, and are provided with gaiters to ensure a safe hike. Refúgio das Curucacas offers hiking (https://refugiodascurucacas.com.br/trekking) and rock climbing (https://refugiodascurucacas.com.br/escalada-experiencias-turisticas) activities.
Phone: +55 42 99930-5500
Email: contato@refugiodascurucacas.com.br
Website: https://refugiodascurucacas.com.br/furnas-do-passo-do-pupo
Access is available by vehicle or via nature trails.
For self-guided tours (without a guide or driver from Refúgio das Curucacas), access is permitted only to the upper part of the Furna. To visit the interior of the Furnas, you must hire our guides/drivers, who are trained to lead groups safely and with respect for the environment, providing information to help visitors understand the key aspects of the tour.
After the tour, we recommend visiting the historic village of Passo do Pupo. The village is home to the Bom Jesus Chapel, where Mass is held on Sundays, a playground for children, and several traditional festivals, such as the "Festa do Nosso Senhor Bom Jesus". The village offers various services, such as Sandro’s tire repair shop, Paraílio’s metalworking shop and snack bar, Erasmo Construtor, the Bom Jesus Bar, and Nara’s Grocery Store.
For those heading to Mariquinha Waterfall, we recommend Dolina’s Lanches snack bar.