This spa town in southern Minas Gerais has thermal springs, a cable car to Cristo Redentor statue, and sulfur mines. The city center has Art Deco buildings from the 1930s.
In Poços de Caldas, you can soak in 42°C thermal springs, take therapeutic sulfur baths at the 1919 Thermas Antônio Carlos complex, or hike the mountain trails of São Domingos range. The city, located inside an extinct volcanic caldera in southern Minas Gerais, draws visitors to its Japanese gardens with red bridges and koi ponds. In July, classical musicians perform at the Music in the Mountains Festival, both in the Carlos Gomes Theater and in open-air venues throughout the city.
Thermal Waters and Wellness
The sulfurous waters of Poços de Caldas flow from 1,300 meters underground, reaching 42°C at the source and 37°C in the baths. These waters contain more than 1mg/liter of sulfur, which local doctors have used to treat health conditions since the late 18th century. At Thermas Antônio Carlos, you can swim in indoor and outdoor thermal pools, book massages, or try specialized therapies in the treatment rooms. The complex includes changing facilities and rest areas.
Getting Around the City
You can reach Poços de Caldas by car from São Paulo (243 km), Belo Horizonte (460 km), or Rio de Janeiro (470 km). The city has an airport with regular flights. Winter temperatures average 15°C, while summer temperatures stay around 21°C. Local buses run between the thermal baths, Christ statue, and other main sites.
Natural Environment
The 90-million-year-old volcanic caldera contains deposits of thorium, zirconium, and bauxite, including caldasite, a mineral unique to this region. You can hike the São Domingos mountain trails, which range from 2 to 8 kilometers in length. The Cristo trail takes you to a viewpoint overlooking the valley and city below.
Cultural Activities
During the Music in the Mountains Festival each July, musicians perform classical concerts at the Carlos Gomes Theater and outdoor locations. Visit the Walter Baumgartner Museum to see regional art and historical artifacts. In the Japanese garden, you can watch koi fish swim under wooden bridges, visit the tea house, or spend time in the meditation areas. The former Palace Casino now hosts art exhibitions and performances year-round in its restored Art Deco building.
