Caldas Novas Hot Springs
Goiás
Caldas Novas Hot Springs, located in Goiás, Brazil, is renowned as the largest hydrothermal resort in the world. The region features natural thermal springs with temperatures ranging from 43°C to 70°C, sourced from a geothermal aquifer beneath the Serra de Caldas plateau. This plateau, rising to about 1,000 meters, replenishes the aquifers through infiltration and heating of groundwater, making the thermal waters a unique natural phenomenon. The area is protected partly by the Caldas Novas State Park, which conserves the native cerrado vegetation and offers trails leading to waterfalls and panoramic lookouts over the city. Caldas Novas attracts millions of tourists annually who enjoy the therapeutic and recreational benefits of its hundreds of thermal pools located in hotels, clubs, and resorts. The city infrastructure supports a vibrant tourism industry with accommodations, leisure facilities, and ecotourism activities. The hot springs have historical significance, having been discovered in the 18th century and contributing to the settlement and development of the region.
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Tip: The best time to visit Caldas Novas is during the Brazilian winter months when the warm thermal waters provide a perfect contrast to cooler air temperatures. Visitors are advised to book accommodations and access to popular thermal parks in advance, especially during high season when the city hosts over half a million tourists. Many resorts offer packages and discounts for families and groups. The Caldas Novas State Park is open Tuesday to Sunday from 8:00 to 17:00, and guided visits are recommended to safely enjoy the trails and waterfalls. Morning visits to trails like Paredão are preferable due to limited shade.
Interesting facts
- •Caldas Novas hosts the largest thermal water tourist complex in the world.
- •The thermal waters can reach temperatures up to 70°C (158°F).
- •The Caldas Novas State Park protects over 12,000 hectares of cerrado biome and natural springs.
- •Thermal water originates from groundwater heated about 1,000 meters underground before surfacing through fractures.
- •The region attracts over 3 million tourists annually, with a population that swells significantly during peak seasons.
History
The hot springs of Caldas Novas were first discovered in the early 18th century by bandeirantes exploring for gold.
Initial settlements formed around these thermal waters, although the region remained relatively undeveloped due to its remote location and focus on mining elsewhere.
In the 19th century, migration increased, and the town of Caldas Novas was officially founded in 1911.
The Caldas Novas State Park was established in 1970 to protect the cerrado ecosystem and the aquifers feeding the springs.
Since then, the area has developed into a major tourist destination with infrastructure supporting millions of visitors annually.
Place Guide
Cascatinha Waterfall Trail
A short trail less than 1 km leading to a waterfall where visitors can swim or jump from the top. The trail includes the Cascatinha lookout offering beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
Paredão Waterfall Trail and Lookout
A 2 km trail with little shade best visited in the morning. Leads to the Paredão waterfall and a steep stairway to the Paredão lookout, which offers a 360-degree panoramic view of Caldas Novas city.
Diversiflora Trail
A short trail providing an educational guide to the cerrado vegetation, showcasing the unique flora of the region.
Contact
Phone: (64) 3455-9600