Lago dos Espelhos
Discover Lago dos Espelhos, a magical spot in Ibitipoca with dark, reflective waters mirroring the sky and lush nature.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Serene reflections, fewer crowds
Lago dos Espelhos
Best Time
Serene reflections, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Lago dos Espelhos, a magical spot in Ibitipoca with dark, reflective waters mirroring the sky and lush nature.
"The dark, reflective waters of Lago dos Espelhos create an enigmatic and mysterious atmosphere, making it a must-visit."
👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
The 1km walk to Lago dos Espelhos is beautiful but requires good shoes. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Bring Water and Snacks
Stay hydrated and energized for the hike and your time by the lake. :water_wave:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Mirror-Like Lake
Parque Estadual de Ibitipoca
Experience the magic of dark, reflective waters mirroring the sky and lush surroundings.
Cascading Waterfall
Lago dos Espelhos
Enjoy a refreshing dip in the cool waters of the waterfall feeding the lake.
Sandy Beach Area
Lago dos Espelhos
A perfect spot for families, offering a safe and enjoyable sandy 'prainha' for relaxation.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Ibitipoca's Charm
Embrace the Hike to Lago dos Espelhos
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
The 1km walk to Lago dos Espelhos is beautiful but requires good shoes. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Bring Water and Snacks
Stay hydrated and energized for the hike and your time by the lake. :water_wave:
👨👩👧 Family-Friendly Fun
The sandy 'prainha' makes it a great spot for kids to play safely. :child:
📸 Capture the Reflections
Visit early for the best mirror-like effects of the water. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
The 1km walk to Lago dos Espelhos is beautiful but requires good shoes. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Bring Water and Snacks
Stay hydrated and energized for the hike and your time by the lake. :water_wave:
👨👩👧 Family-Friendly Fun
The sandy 'prainha' makes it a great spot for kids to play safely. :child:
📸 Capture the Reflections
Visit early for the best mirror-like effects of the water. :camerawithflash:
🏊♀️ Embrace the Cold Water
The waters are refreshing, perfect for a revitalizing dip! :swimmer:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Lago dos Espelhos for its unique, mirror-like dark waters and the refreshing waterfall. It's highlighted as a family-friendly spot with a pleasant sandy beach area, making it a favorite within Parque Estadual de Ibitipoca. The short, scenic hike adds to its appeal, though some find the water quite cold.
"Pertence ao Circuito das Águas do Parque Estadual de Ibitipoca. Lago com cachoeira e prainha, muito bom inclusive para quem for com crianças, claro, com os cuidados de sempre."
Adriano Gomes
"A melhor cachoeira para visitar com crianças!
Ela tem uma prainha de areia muito boa!
São 1km para ir e 1 km para voltar."
Jhon Carelli
"Meu ponto preferido em Ibitipoca. Um lago excelente para se banhar e dar aquela relaxada."
Adriano Werpel
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lago dos Espelhos is located within the Parque Estadual de Ibitipoca. You'll need to drive to the park entrance and then follow a well-marked trail for approximately 1 kilometer to reach the lake. The journey is part of the natural beauty of the park.
Yes, there is parking available at the entrance of Parque Estadual de Ibitipoca. From there, it's a pleasant walk to the lake.
Many visitors drive to Ibitipoca. If coming from larger cities like Belo Horizonte or Rio de Janeiro, consider car rental for flexibility. Public transport options exist but may require transfers.
The walk from the park entrance to Lago dos Espelhos is about 1 kilometer each way and typically takes around 15-20 minutes, depending on your pace.
While not always necessary, local guides can enhance your experience in Ibitipoca, offering insights into the park's flora and fauna. Inquire at the park entrance or local tourism offices.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, Lago dos Espelhos is within Parque Estadual de Ibitipoca, which requires an entrance fee. It's advisable to check the official park website for current pricing and operating hours before your visit.
Opening hours can vary, especially by season. Always check the official Parque Estadual de Ibitipoca website for the most up-to-date information on park access and specific attraction hours.
The park is generally open year-round, but weather conditions can affect accessibility and the overall experience, especially during the rainy season.
Information on discounts for students, seniors, or specific groups is usually available on the park's official website. It's best to inquire directly or check their online resources.
Many state parks now offer online ticket purchasing to streamline entry. Check the Parque Estadual de Ibitipoca's official website to see if advance booking is available.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can swim in the lake and waterfall, relax on the sandy beach area, and enjoy the stunning natural scenery. It's also a fantastic spot for photography.
Absolutely! The sandy 'prainha' (small beach) makes it a great and safe spot for children to play and enjoy the water.
The water is known for its dark, reflective quality, resembling Coca-Cola due to tannins from surrounding vegetation. It's also quite cold, offering a refreshing experience. 
Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks to enjoy a picnic. However, remember to pack out all your trash to help keep the park clean.
Basic facilities may be available within the park, but it's wise to check the park's official information for specifics regarding restrooms and changing areas near Lago dos Espelhos.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Early mornings are ideal for capturing the 'mirror' effect as the water reflects the sky and trees with minimal disturbance. Golden hour light also creates beautiful shots.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive scenery. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections and enhance colors.
Drone regulations can be strict in national parks. Always check the specific rules and regulations for Parque Estadual de Ibitipoca regarding drone usage before flying.
The dark water is a natural phenomenon. Focus on capturing the reflections and the contrast between the dark water and the vibrant green foliage.
The main lake area with its reflections is a must. Also, explore the waterfall and the surrounding trails for diverse photographic opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the lake itself, the park offers other accessible trails and natural beauty that can be enjoyed by the whole family. It's a great opportunity to introduce children to the wonders of nature in a safe and engaging environment. Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid larger crowds and ensure a more relaxed experience for your family.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Capture the dramatic reflections of the sky, trees, and surrounding landscape. A wide-angle lens is recommended to encompass the full beauty of the scene. Experiment with different angles and times of day to capture the unique character of the lake. The waterfall also provides excellent opportunities for long-exposure shots, creating a silky smooth water effect. Remember to bring your camera and tripod for the best results, and be prepared for some walking to reach the most picturesque spots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Waters of Lago dos Espelhos
+1The water temperature is consistently cool, even on warmer days, providing a refreshing escape. Visitors often describe the water as invigorating, perfect for a revitalizing dip after a hike. The combination of the unique water color and the refreshing temperature makes swimming in Lago dos Espelhos a truly memorable experience.
This natural phenomenon contributes significantly to the enigmatic and mysterious atmosphere of the location, setting it apart from more conventional swimming spots and adding to its allure for travelers seeking unique natural wonders.
Navigating Parque Estadual de Ibitipoca
Beyond Lago dos Espelhos, the park boasts other stunning features like Cachoeira da Ducha and Cachoeira dos Macacos. Each trail offers a different perspective of the park's diverse landscape, from dense forest to open rocky outcrops. Wear comfortable walking shoes, as you'll be doing a fair amount of walking.
It's advisable to check the park's official map and information upon arrival to plan your route and make the most of your visit. The park's natural beauty is best appreciated at a leisurely pace, allowing you to soak in the tranquility and the breathtaking scenery.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit