Sertão do Ribeirão to Gurita Waterfall
the charms of Lagoa do Peri and the cultural richness of the Sertão.
Minimum recommended age*:
7 years
* The ages listed are only a suggestion; every child is unique, and it is up to each parent or guardian to decide whether their child is ready for the adventure. Please contact us if you have any questions.
Why do this activity?
One of the most comprehensive ways to explore the southern part of the island beyond the beaches. The itinerary combines nature, rural scenery, cuisine, and local culture, revealing different ways of living and connecting with this region.
Starting point
Francisco Thomaz dos Santos Road - Sertão do Ribeirão.
End point
Rua Alberto Cavalheiro, 238. Ribeirão da Ilha, Florianópolis.
Route Classification
Click here to learn how the Route Classification system works.
Activity Details
The trail through the Sertão do Ribeirão takes us to Gurita Waterfall, along a route surrounded by the Atlantic Forest and the region’s rural landscapes. Along the way, we learn about the vegetation, wildlife, and traditional ways of life in the Sertão.
The experience also includes a visit to a distillery, where we observe part of the artisanal cachaça production process and enjoy lunch on site. Afterward, we head out for a tour of the Historic Center of Ribeirão da Ilha, exploring its streets, grand mansions, church, and traces of Azorean colonization.
Value:
R$ 990,00
Price of the activity, for groups of 1 to 4 people. Please inquire about other group sizes.
Your reservation will be confirmed upon advance payment of 25% of the total cost of the activity. The balance must be paid at least 7 days before the activity takes place. For reservations made less than 7 days in advance, full payment is required.
Included:
Personal insurance;
Tourism Ministry certified tour guide, certified in remote area rescue by Wilderness Medical Associates and Escola de Aventura;
Lunch at Sertão do Ribeirão;
Guides authorized by the Florianópolis City Government;
We may be able to offer a ride from central Florianópolis;
Leg gaiters available for loan;
Trails with a Safety Management System based on ISO 21101.
Not included:
Transportation expenses;
Food in general.
Cancellation Policy:
Cancellation by the Customer
Cancellations made 7 days or more in advance will receive a full refund.
For cancellations made between 7 days and 24 hours before the activity, 25% of the total amount will be retained.
Cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance or failure to show up for the activity will not be refunded, except as provided by law.
Cancellation by Família na Trilha
If the activity is canceled by Família na Trilha due to weather conditions that compromise safety, access difficulties, operational issues, or other circumstances that prevent its safe conduct, the customer may choose to reschedule or receive a full refund of the amounts paid.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the trail like from Sertão do Ribeirão to Gurita Waterfall?
The trail begins at Sertão do Ribeirão, in southern Florianópolis, and winds for approximately 4.3 km through Atlantic Forest and rural landscapes to Gurita Waterfall. The route has an elevation gain of about 195 meters and offers a chance to explore a less urban part of Santa Catarina Island, where nature, history, and traditional ways of life are still very much alive.
Is it possible to swim at Gurita Falls?
Yes. During the activity, there is time to enjoy Gurita Falls and swim, if conditions at the site are suitable. The waterfall is one of the highlights of the trail and a great place to stop after the hike.
What is a distillery, and how does it fit into the experience?
A distillery is where cachaça is produced by hand from sugarcane. After the hike to Gurita Falls, we’ll visit a distillery in the Sertão do Ribeirão, where we’ll learn a bit about the process and how this production relates to the local culture. We’ll also stop at the distillery for lunch before heading to the final leg of the experience at Ribeirão da Ilha.
What is Ribeirão da Ilha, and why is it worth visiting?
Ribeirão da Ilha is one of the most traditional communities in Florianópolis, known for its Azorean heritage, its well-preserved historic district, and its strong connection to the sea and oyster farming. Visiting it helps you understand part of the history, culture, and way of life on Santa Catarina Island.
Can children participate in the Sertão do Ribeirão and Cachoeira da Gurita tour?
Yes. The tour can be a great option for families with children, as long as the children have the stamina and independence required for the hike. The itinerary combines a hike through the Sertão do Ribeirão, the Atlantic Forest, and the Gurita Waterfall, a visit to the distillery with lunch, and a final stop at Ribeirão da Ilha, which helps keep the activities varied throughout the day. For younger children, we have a special child carrier backpack available for rent, suitable for children who can already sit independently and weigh up to 22 kg. Before booking, we assess the child’s and family’s profile to provide guidance on participating in the experience.