Hot Springs, a cable car, stunning views and a majestic hotel. If you’re planning a trip to one of the major Brazilian cities such as Sao Paulo or Rio, or if you’re off on a road trip, this is a great place to visit and escape the bustle.

We recommend about 2 -3  days. It’s easily accessible by car or bus from Sao Paulo (4-5 hours). Rio is a 7 hour road trip. A great visit for solo travellers, couples and families, with plenty of activities for the kids.

Getting There

From Sao Paulo Tiete Bus Terminal, you can catch a coach directly to Pocos de Caldos. It takes about 4 hours and tickets can be fetched for £17 one way. 

From Rio we suggest a car hire. The journey time is around 7 hours. But you’ll have amazing views along the way, especially the winding incline into Pocos de Caldos.

Internal flights are another good option. You would need to take a flight from either Sao Paulo or Rio to the nearest airport at Ribeirao Preto (another wonderful city!), and take a coach from there.

Click the map to help plan your route.

Why Visit Poças de Caldas?

We’ve been to this wonderful spa town on several occasions and our most recent visit in 2024 inspired this post.  What can I say – Poças de Caldas is truly awesome. Brazil is a huge country with so many stunning places to explore, and this city is undoubtedly one of them. Check out our Amazing Brazil post after reading this.

Pocas de Caldas is a spa town located in the state of Minas Gerais, and sits on the Northern border of Sao Paulo. 

From the rejuvenating sulphur water springs at Fonte dos Macacos and Fonte Luminosa, and breathtaking views atop São Domingos Mountain to the towering Christ the Redeemer statue and the exhilarating tree-top adventure trail, there’s no shortage of reasons to visit. 

The town boasts breathtaking scenery, regular music and food events in the main square, a cable car ride over the city, a hidden observatory, an abundance of restaurants and bars, and the dazzling Carlton Plaza Hotel. And then there’s the Cristais São Marcos glass making factory and store. I think you’ll agree that it adds up to a lot to see and do.It’s a truly special place to visit.

With the town situated along the sulfur rich Pocos de Caldos river, it is hardly surprising that there are plenty of opportunities to indulge in the revitalising properties of its water. In fact, there are hot spring water fountains located throughout the city, and you’ll find many locals and tourists using these to cleanse themselves throughout the day.

Spa treatments are offered in many hotels. However, the Antonio Carlos Spa Centre is a magnificent building in the heart of the city, and renowned for the quality of treatments offered. The building itself is stunning, and a fitting addition to the city. This beautifully preserved 1930s building offers a relaxing and revitalising experience. It’s truly impressive when you walk inside.

Services and Treatments:

• Thermal Baths: Soak in the mineral-rich thermal waters to help with relaxation, skin care, and pain relief.
• Hydrotherapy Treatments: Choose from a variety of hydrotherapy treatments designed to ease muscle tension and improve circulation.
• Massages and Facials: The spa offers various massage therapies and skincare treatments, making it perfect for unwinding after exploring the city.

Opening Hours:

• Monday to Friday: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Saturday: 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM

Cost::

• Thermal bath treatments start at around R$40 to R$50 (approximately $8 to $10 USD).
• Massages and hydrotherapy range from R$100 to R$200 (about $20 to $40 USD), depending on the services chosen.

Have a look at their Instagram for some Spa inspiration.

The cable car is located at Praça Pedro Sanches, which is in the heart of the city centre, and takes about 15 minutes to get up the mountain. It’s a unique experience as you travel over the main road prior to getting onto the mountain. It feels very strange watching the cars and pedestrians below. 

Now, these cars had a bit of a reputation for being run down and, well, very dated. It is true that during the horrific Covid pandemic, the cable cars were closed down and the town was pretty much deserted. You may come across videos online showing these run down cable cars. But Ronaldo and I can assure you that, as of 2024, the cable car system has had a makeover. The ride is smooth and the cars are modern and clean, if a little small. So, this is a great way to get up to the top of the town and experience the impressive views.

The cable car (Teleférico) operates with the following schedule:

• Monday to Friday: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Saturday, Sunday, and Holidays: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM

These hours may occasionally vary depending on weather conditions or maintenance though. It was closed on one of the days we were there. 

The cost is about: 

• Adults: R$40 to R$50 (approximately $8 to $10 USD for a round trip)

Children and Seniors: R$20 to R$25 (approximately $4 to $5 USD for a round trip

A Tree Top Trail, Christ the Redeemer, a giant swing and more…

Entrance fee for statue: Free

Once you reach the summit of São Domingos, it is a short walk to the main attraction – Christ the Redeemer.

Rio is home to arguably the most famous statue atop Mount Corcovado. However, similar statues can be found throughout Brazil, reflecting the country’s deep-rooted Catholic faith. Pocas de Caldos has an impressive Christ the Redeemer, and a visit here is definitely worthwhile – not just for the statue, but for the ambience and scenic views out over the city. It is truly breathtaking. 

When we first visited the mountain top back in 2018 with Ronaldo’s parents, there was very little to do after visiting the statue. The last few years have seen a remarkable transformation. It now has a large restaurant, a bar and a tree- top adventure trail. 

The tree top trail is great fun for kids with its zip lines, suspension bridges, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Price: around R$50 to R$70 (approximately $10 to $14 USD) per person. It can fluctuate depending on the time of year.

Just to the side of the statue is the giant swing. A nerve racking ride at the very edge of the mountain. Do it if you dare!

Price: R$40 to R$50 (approximately $8 to $10 USD) per person.

Hidden Gem: Walk left, up the hill away from Christ the Redeemer. You will come across a gravel path. About 5 minutes up from here you will find a disused observatory. An impressive site, especially for a science buff like me!

Overall, São Domingos is an excellent attraction. The recent renovations to the cable car system, and the complete transformation of the hill top make it a great way to spend the afternoon. And we cannot overstate enough the wonderful vantage point, with perfect, unobscured views across Pocos de Caldos.

If you fancy a romantic day out, the Fonte dos Amores (Fountain of Love) is just the spot. Tucked away at the foot of the Serra de São Domingos, it’s a haven for lovers with hidden corners and scenic views that Ronaldo and I absolutely adored. The  enchanting marble statue shown above is of two young people embracing, and was sculpted by the Italian artist Giulio Starace.

Fontes de Amores is brimming with natural beauty and wildlife, including monkeys that pop up now and then. There are also five mineral water fountains, each paying homage to different city landmarks, supplying the local Poços de Caldas Mineral Water. It’s quite the experience! 

There is a shop and restaurant as you enter so be sure to grab water and snacks before venturing into the park. And here’s a tip from our rainy day adventure: the walkways are pretty steep and become quite slippery when wet. So, wear some good shoes and maybe check the weather forecast and bring an umbrella.

The Fonte dos Amores also marks the start of the main trail up to the Christ the Redeemer statue in the Serra de São Domingos Park. If you’re up for a bit of a hike, it’s a fantastic way to see more of the area.

Pros: Wonderful views, hidden gems throughout, and a fantastic spot for lunch.

Cons: Steep walkways that get very slippery when wet—we found out the hard way!

Hope you get to enjoy it as much as we did!

Check further information on this excellent location here.

Fantastic for couples, families and solo travellers alike. 

It is impossible to miss this hotel as you enter the town. The Palace Hotel stands proud in the centre of Pocos de Caldos, and really is a beautiful site. Ronaldo and I have been fortunate enough to stay here on several occasions. 

Stepping into The Palace Hotel feels like entering a beautifully preserved world from the past. The reception area, adorned with antique key boxes and vintage decor, is reminiscent of a classic 1950s movie – a time when travel was an art form, and hospitality was about creating unforgettable experiences.

As you walk through the long hallways. every pathway, statue, and fountain invites you to pause and appreciate the beauty around you. The rooms here are equally captivating, with rustic touches, large ceilings, and generous space. Having said that, Ronaldo commented that our room was quite dated, but we could not fault the views or the cleanliness. Check out our video of the room in the photo gallery.

One of the hotel’s most remarkable features is its stunning swimming pool, filled with natural sulfur water. The architecture surrounding the pool is as grand as it is unique, with arches and pillars that transport you to another era. Bathing in the mineral-rich water, embraced by this beautiful setting, is an experience of rejuvenation. There is also a sauna and beauty therapy suites so plenty for a relaxing afternoon.

Whether you seek relaxation or adventure, The Palace Hotel offers more than just a stay – it offers a journey into elegance, history, and tranquillity.

Check out the latest prices for the hotel here

Ronaldo’s parents have been visiting Pocos de Caldos for the past forty years! They know a thing or two about the town. Together, we have compiled a list of other great  hotels for families, solo travellers and the best places for Spa treatments..

Great Stays for the Family

Thermas All Inclusive Resort Poços de Caldas: An all-inclusive resort featuring multiple pools, recreational activities, and entertainment options suitable for families.

Monreale Resort Parque Aquático: Offers a water park, various sports facilities, and organised activities for children, making it ideal for family vacations.

Vilage Inn All Inclusive Poços de Caldas: Provides all-inclusive services with amenities like pools, playgrounds, and family-oriented entertainment.

Hostels for Solo Travelers

Like a Hostel: Centrally located, offering a friendly atmosphere and shared accommodations suitable for solo travelers.

Corona Hostel: Provides a communal environment with shared facilities, ideal for meeting fellow travelers.Poços Hostel: Features shared rooms and common areas, fostering interaction among guests.

Hotels for Couples

Palace Hotel: Historic hotel with elegant architecture, offering a romantic ambiance and proximity to city attractions.

Hotel Minas Gerais: Provides comfortable accommodations with a cozy atmosphere, suitable for couples seeking a relaxing stay.

Minas Garden Hotel: Offers rooms with private balconies and scenic views, enhancing the romantic experience.

You can book any of these wonderful hotels and more here. There are no shortage of excellent stays.

The Zoo das Aves is definitely worth a trip! Originally a bird breeding sanctuary called Sítio da Ferradura started by Moacyr de Carvalho Dias about 40 years ago, the place opened to the public in 2017. 

The Zoo is home to  nearly 2,000 birds representing around 200 different species. including flamingos and emus!  There’s so much colour and life here. It’s not just about the birds, either – you’ll find a few mammals and reptiles along the way, adding a bit of extra excitement to the visit.

One of the highlights is the chance to walk right through some of the aviaries,  getting up close to these stunning birds. I love nature and I thought it was wonderful that we could walk through the enclosure. However, I thought some of the aviaries were not as well maintained as they could be. I also thought that some enclosures had too many birds in them, and some did not look the healthiest. This is purely my opinion, but something to be aware of. One thing I did like, was the visible presence of knowledgeable staff. They were friendly and seemed happy to be there. This at least made me feel that the birds were being looked after.

The paths around the zoo are well-marked with signs telling you about each species and the zoo’s history, so it is an educational journey too. Overall, we enjoyed our afternoon here.

Pros:

• Fantastic variety of bird species and a unique chance to walk through aviaries.
• Great for families with educational information and knowledgeable staff.
• Scenic walking path and a café for rest breaks.

Cons:

• Some enclosures can feel a bit crowded, which might be off-putting to some.
• The focus on caged birds may be a concern, although it is important to note that many birds are in open enclosures.

• Overall, Zoo das Aves is a fascinating experience for anyone visiting Poços de Caldas. It’s a glimpse into Brazil’s rich avian diversity and a memorable way to spend the day!

For more information, please check there website here.

Ronaldo and I hope this post proved informative. Check out our other related posts below, and please do feel free to comment. Please also use our contact us page if you have any questions about this destination.

All of the excursions we have covered and more can be found here.