nature reserve · Guaraqueçaba, PR
Reserva Natural Salto Morato
A private Atlantic Forest reserve of about 2,250 hectares, run by the Fundação Grupo Boticário and open to visitors since 1996. Trails lead to the Salto Morato, a waterfall about 100 meters high, and to a fig tree whose roots span the Rio do Engenho.
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 Reserva Natural Salto Morato
The Reserva Natural Salto Morato is a private Atlantic Forest reserve in Guaraqueçaba, on the northern coast of Paraná. It belongs to the Fundação Grupo Boticário de Proteção à Natureza, which bought the land in 1994 and opened it to visitors in 1996. It lies within the area of Atlantic Forest recognized by UNESCO as a World Natural Heritage site.
The name comes from the Salto Morato, a tall waterfall that plunges from a rock wall in the middle of the forest. A short, easy trail from the visitor center leads to the base of the falls, where the river runs between moss-covered rocks and forms a natural aquarium of clear water.
Another trail, longer and of moderate effort, reaches the century-old fig tree that spans the Rio do Engenho, forming a living bridge covered in bromeliads and ferns. There is also a short trail designed for children and, at certain times of year, guided walks along the riverbed.
The reserve has a visitor center, a snack bar and a camping area. It is an outing for people who like dense forest, rivers and birdwatching: the reserve is known for its variety of birds and other Atlantic Forest wildlife. The waterfall trail suits families; the fig tree trail takes more stamina and sturdy shoes.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
Half a day lets you do the waterfall trail at a relaxed pace; to include the fig tree trail, allow the whole day.
Best time
In the morning, on dry days: the forest is cooler and the waterfall has good light. In summer the river invites a swim, but it rains a lot in the region and the reserve may close the trails on days of heavy rain.
How to get there
It is in the Morato community, beside the PR-405, near the town of Guaraqueçaba. By car from Curitiba, it is about 160 km via the BR-277 and Antonina, with a long stretch of dirt road to Guaraqueçaba. You can also take a boat from Paranaguá to Guaraqueçaba and continue by taxi or transfer to the reserve.
Tip
Check beforehand whether the reserve is open and whether you need to book, bring closed-toe shoes and insect repellent, and set out early: the dirt road to Guaraqueçaba takes a long time.
A look at the place
Reserva Natural Salto Morato 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 Reserva Natural Salto Morato
Is there an entrance fee at the Reserva Natural Salto Morato?
Before you go, check with the Fundação Grupo Boticário whether there is an entrance fee and whether you need to book.
Is the trail to the Salto Morato waterfall difficult?
No. The waterfall trail is short and easy, good for families. The trail to the fig tree is longer and of moderate effort.
Can I bring my dog?
No. Pets are not allowed in the reserve.
Can you camp at Salto Morato?
Yes. The reserve has a camping area with restrooms and barbecue grills; check availability and book in advance.
How long does it take to get from Curitiba to Salto Morato?
The drive takes about four hours, because much of the way to Guaraqueçaba is on a dirt road.