This resort city in central Brazil has more than 80 hot spring pools, with natural water temperatures reaching 51°C. Popular among Brazilian tourists for its thermal water parks.
Caldas Novas, in Brazil's Goiás state, sits atop the world's largest hydrothermal aquifer system, where natural hot springs reach temperatures up to 57°C. You can float in thermal pools at the massive Hot Park water park, zip down 40-meter water slides at DiRoma Acqua Park, or trek through the native cerrado vegetation at Caldas Novas State Park. The nearby Corumbá River adds to your options with boat rentals and swimming spots.
The Thermal Waters
The underground thermal reservoir of Caldas Novas produces water through 86 active wells, pumping approximately 1,200 cubic meters per hour. The springs maintain temperatures between 34°C and 57°C, ideal for swimming and health treatments. You'll find these healing waters flowing into pools at hotels and resorts across the region. The warm temperatures let you swim comfortably throughout the year, even during winter months.
Water Parks and Recreation
At Rio Quente Resorts, 20 kilometers west of Caldas Novas, you can explore 500 square kilometers of water-based fun. The Hot Park includes a 400-meter lazy river, multiple water slides ranging from 12 to 40 meters in height, and dedicated children's pools with smaller slides and splash areas. At DiRoma Acqua Park, you'll find wave pools that generate swells up to 1.5 meters high. Each park includes food courts, locker rooms, and rest zones with sun loungers.
Seasonal Guide
Visit between December and February to experience peak season, when up to 300,000 people celebrate carnival season. For a calmer experience with shorter wait times at water parks, plan your trip from July to September. The thermal waters maintain their warmth year-round, making winter visits equally enjoyable. Remember to book your room several months ahead during carnival and summer holidays.
Natural Areas
Walk through Caldas Novas State Park on trails ranging from 2 to 8 kilometers. The paths wind through cerrado vegetation, characterized by twisted trees and drought-resistant plants. Several lookout points give you views across the city and surrounding valleys. At Corumbá River, which forms Brazil's largest artificial lake, you can rent motorboats or kayaks, fish for tucunaré and dourado, or swim at marked beach areas. Stop by the park's visitor center to pick up trail maps and join guided walks.
Transportation and Access
Fly into Nelson Ribeiro Guimarães Airport, which connects to São Paulo and other major Brazilian cities with daily flights. Take regular buses from the central station to Goiânia (185km) or other regional cities. Within Caldas Novas, catch local buses between water parks and the city center every 30 minutes. Many resorts provide shuttle services, and you can find taxis at stands throughout the city center and near major water parks.
