Natural heritage · Timbé do Sul, SC
Toca do Tatu
The Toca do Tatu is a paleotoca in sandstone of the Formação Botucatu. Its tunnels have marks associated with megafauna and traces of human occupation; access is part of the Portal do Palmiro tour.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Toca do Tatu
The Toca do Tatu preserves galleries carved into sandstone of the Formação Botucatu by megafauna animals. The marks on the rock help identify the origin of the tunnel, which differs from a cavity opened only by the action of water. The site also holds traces associated with human presence, broadening the interest of the visit beyond geology.
The tour is organized via the Portal do Palmiro access and must be accompanied. Ask which parts of the site will be visible and follow the instructions for walking along the walls. Observation should take place without touching, scratching, or collecting material. Bring only the equipment indicated by the guide and keep the group on the authorized route; preserving the surfaces allows other visitors to see the marks that make the paleotoca recognizable.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
Allow time for the route to the Portal do Palmiro and the guided visit to the paleotoca, according to the agreed schedule.
Best time
Visit when accompaniment is confirmed and valley access is in suitable condition.
How to get there
Arrange the meeting point at the Portal do Palmiro, in the rural area of Timbé do Sul, and follow the guide to the toca.
Tip
Photograph without touching the marks on the sandstone; ask the guide how to recognize the traces observed.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Toca do Tatu
What is a paleotoca?
It is a gallery dug into the rock by now-extinct megafauna, different from many caves formed by erosion.
Does the Toca do Tatu have marks on the rock?
The site preserves marks related to the digging and evidence of human occupation, which need to remain protected.
How is the visit to the toca organized?
Access is associated with the Portal do Palmiro and must be done with accompaniment and authorization.