cave · Chapada dos Guimarães, MT
Caverna Aroe Jari
One of the largest sandstone caves in Brazil, with tunnels more than a kilometer long, and the nearby Lagoa Azul with intensely colored water. The tour combines a hike, a cave and a swim.
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 Caverna Aroe Jari
Caverna Aroe Jari is considered the largest sandstone cave in Brazil, about 1.5 km long. The name comes from the Bororo language. It is on a private farm, far from the town of Chapada dos Guimarães, along with other caves in the same complex.
The tour begins with a hike through the cerrado (Brazilian savanna) to the cave entrance. Inside, you walk through chambers and galleries carved by water in the sandstone over thousands of years.
Nearby is the Lagoa Azul, a lake of crystal-clear, deep-blue water inside a cave. The lagoon is for looking and taking photos: you may not go into the water, which helps preserve the color and the cave environment.
Visits are guided only, and hiking in the heat takes stamina. It is a tour for people who walk well on dirt and rock trails; it is not recommended for those with limited mobility.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
Set aside most of the day, counting the drive from town, the hike and the visit to the caves.
Best time
In the dry season, from May to September, when the trail is firm; set out early to do the hike before the worst of the heat.
How to get there
The cave complex is on a private farm about 46 km from the town of Chapada dos Guimarães, with the last stretch on a dirt road. Visits are guided, and agencies in town offer the tour with transportation.
Tip
Wear closed hiking shoes, bring water, a hat and sunscreen, and book the visit in advance with a guide or agency in town.
A look at the place
Caverna Aroe Jari in pictures
These pictures are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs. They may differ from the place.
Click the picture to enlarge it.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Caverna Aroe Jari
Can you swim in the Lagoa Azul at Aroe Jari?
No. The Lagoa Azul is only for looking and taking photos; going into the water is not allowed, to preserve the cave and the color of the water.
Do I need a guide to visit Caverna Aroe Jari?
Yes. The cave is on a private farm and visits are guided only. Agencies in Chapada dos Guimarães organize the tour.
Is there a fee to visit Caverna Aroe Jari?
The visit is made with a hired guide, on private property. Check the price and what is included with guides and agencies in town.
Where is Caverna Aroe Jari?
On a private farm about 46 km from the town of Chapada dos Guimarães (MT), with the last stretch on a dirt road.
Is the trail to Aroe Jari difficult?
It is not technical, but it is a hike through the cerrado (Brazilian savanna), done in the heat. It takes stamina and closed shoes; it is not recommended for people with limited mobility.