Altinópolis: Cave, Waterfall and Culture

Altinópolis, in the state of São Paulo, invites you to choose between cultural attractions and natural destinations. Praça das Esculturas celebrates the art of Bassano Vaccarini, while Gruta de Itambé and Cachoeira do Itambé offer a different experience, with a cave and waterfall.

Sculptures, Collections and City Landmarks

Praça das Esculturas was inaugurated in 1992 and is one of the most significant works by the Italian-Brazilian artist Bassano Vaccarini. The sculptures displayed there are recognised as having historical and cultural value and are protected under municipal heritage law. The square thus brings together a work of art and a specific chapter in Altinópolis’ history.

Casa da Cultura is also one of the city’s tourist attractions. Museu e Casa da Cultura has an art collection featuring sculptures made from roots and bronze, as well as paintings and drawings. The range of materials and forms of expression offers another way to explore Altinópolis’ culture and complements the perspective on Vaccarini’s sculptures.

If you’re planning a walk through the historic town centre, Parque da Lagoa is a good destination. Visitors can stroll through the park in the historic centre of Altinópolis. Other tourist attractions include Praça do Trabalhador, Mirante - Fayez Felipe and Praça da Estação - Capitão “José Pio”.

Cave and Waterfall at Itambé

The Itambé complex is permanently protected and managed by the Tourism Department of the Altinópolis city administration. Gruta de Itambé is formed from Botucatu sandstone and has galleries more than 400 metres long. A 400-metre walk leads to the cave. At this natural destination, both the route and the geological formation are highlights.

Another natural attraction is a 60-metre-high waterfall, reached by a 350-metre path. There is also a natural pool suitable for swimming. The distances make it easy to compare the two destinations: 400 metres to Gruta and 350 metres to Cachoeira. The cave galleries, waterfall height and natural pool each offer a different highlight.

The cave is accessed via the Arlindo Vicentini municipal road, in the direction of Altinópolis–Serrana. About 10 kilometres of the road are paved and 2 kilometres are unpaved. Road conditions can change, so check them locally before setting off.

When looking for a holiday rental in Altinópolis, the kind of trip you want may help you decide: would you like to include culture and local history, a cave and waterfall, or both in your stay?

More Regional Highlights

Near Altinópolis is Morro da Mesa, about 40 kilometres away on the border between the states of São Paulo and Minas Gerais. It offers panoramic views of the region. This nearby destination broadens the view beyond the attractions in town, without suggesting that its distance or landscape is the same as that of the destinations in Altinópolis.

Expoal is also one of the longest-running and most eagerly anticipated events in Altinópolis. If an event is important to your travel plans, check the dates in advance.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Tupã, Franco da Rocha, Santa Clara d'Oeste, Osvaldo Cruz, Barretos, Siqueira Campos, Clementina, Ubatuba.

For the main travel overview: São Paulo.