Parque Ecológico de Rio Claro São Paulo Brazil - Image 1
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Parque Ecológico de Rio Claro São Paulo Brazil

4.4
·3k reviews·, Brazil

Explore the hauntingly beautiful ruins of a town submerged for a dam, now a serene ecological park with a picturesque lake.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
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Parque Ecológico de Rio Claro São Paulo Brazil - Image 1

Parque Ecológico de Rio Claro São Paulo Brazil

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore the hauntingly beautiful ruins of a town submerged for a dam, now a serene ecological park with a picturesque lake.

4.4
(3k reviews)

"Beautiful park in the middle of Rio Claro. The lake is very beautiful and makes a beautiful reflection."

Vertical photo
TIP

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Light trails are common, so comfy footwear is a must for exploring the ruins and park. :athletic_shoe:

Pack a Picnic Basket

Enjoy a meal with a view by the lake; it's a perfect spot for a relaxing picnic. :sandwich:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Submerged City Ruins

Submerged City Ruins

Parque Arqueológico e Ambiental de São João Marcos

Explore the hauntingly beautiful ruins of a town sacrificed for a dam, now an open-air museum.

Lake Ribeirão das Lajes

Lake Ribeirão das Lajes

Parque Arqueológico e Ambiental de São João Marcos

Enjoy the serene lake views and reflections, a picturesque backdrop for a relaxing day.

Bird Watching Opportunities

Bird Watching Opportunities

Parque Arqueológico e Ambiental de São João Marcos

Spot diverse bird species in this tranquil ecological setting.

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Planning Your Visit

Plan Your Visit to São João Marcos

Discover the submerged city ruins of São João Marcos, a historical gem in Rio Claro. Plan for light trails, bird watching, and a unique picnic spot by the lake. Check operating hours before you go to make the most of this open-air museum.

Embrace the History and Nature

This ecological park offers a blend of history and natural beauty. Explore the remnants of a town that was submerged for a dam project. It's a reflective experience, perfect for those interested in local history and serene landscapes.

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Good for picnics and relaxing
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Já ouviu falar na cidade submersa do RJ? O Parque Arqueológico e Ambiental de São João Marcos, em Rio Claro (RJ), guarda as ruínas de uma antiga cidade que foi desativada nos anos 1940 para a construção de uma represa. Hoje, o parque é um passeio incrível, com trilhas leves, mirante com vista para o lago, observação de aves, espaço para piquenique e um Centro de Memória cheio de histórias. Func...
turismosulfluminense
338 likes • 8.1K views

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Light trails are common, so comfy footwear is a must for exploring the ruins and park. :athletic_shoe:

Pack a Picnic Basket

Enjoy a meal with a view by the lake; it's a perfect spot for a relaxing picnic. :sandwich:

O Parque Arqueológico e Ambiental de São João Marcos, em Rio Claro (RJ), é um verdadeiro museu a céu aberto que preserva os vestígios da antiga cidade histórica nas margens da represa de Ribeirão das Lajes, construída nos anos 1940. O local surgiu em 1739, com a construção de uma capela por João Machado Pereira. Tornou-se uma próspera vila cafeeira no século XIX, chegando a abrigar cerca de 14 a 1...
ondecomercostaverde
3.6K likes • 69.5K views
"Uma visita necessária diante de acontecimento desnecessário". Reflexão com meu amigo Pe Fernando Santamaria de São Paulo no Parque Ecológico e Ambiental de São João Marcos, em Rio Claro. Confira!
profhamiltonnascimento
36 likes • 833 views

Bring Your Camera

Capture the unique beauty of the submerged ruins and the scenic lake. :camerawithflash:

Check Park Hours

Verify opening and closing times before your visit to maximize your experience. :clock1:

Tips

from all over the internet

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Light trails are common, so comfy footwear is a must for exploring the ruins and park. :athletic_shoe:

Pack a Picnic Basket

Enjoy a meal with a view by the lake; it's a perfect spot for a relaxing picnic. :sandwich:

Bring Your Camera

Capture the unique beauty of the submerged ruins and the scenic lake. :camerawithflash:

Check Park Hours

Verify opening and closing times before your visit to maximize your experience. :clock1:

Reflect on History

Take time to appreciate the historical significance of this 'submerged city'. :scroll:

What Travellers Say

4.4
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Parque Ecológico de Rio Claro for its beautiful lake, serene green areas, and unique historical ruins. It's highlighted as a great place for relaxation, picnics, and family outings with amenities for children. Some reviews mention the 'Eiffel tower of Rio Claro' being lit at night.

"Beautiful park in the middle of Rio Claro. The lake is very beautiful and makes a beautiful reflection. The park has the legendaric Eiffel tower of Rio Claro, which is lighted during the night. There are multiple places to park for free around the park."

F. Nobels

"Very beautiful place The city of Rio Claro is to be congratulated."

Carlos Sebastiao Pinto

"Very nice green area and nice toys for the kids"

Gabriel Bononi

What People Like

Beautiful lake and reflections
Peaceful green areas
Unique historical ruins

What People Dislike

Lack of clear signage (implied)
Limited dining options on-site

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The park is located in Rio Claro, São Paulo, Brazil. While specific public transport details can vary, driving is a common method. Many visitors mention finding free parking around the park, making it accessible by car. Reddit

Yes, reviews indicate there are multiple places to park for free around the park, which is a convenient aspect for visitors arriving by car. Reddit

For most visitors, driving is the most straightforward way to reach the park. The availability of free parking adds to the convenience. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Information regarding ticket prices and entry fees is not explicitly detailed in the provided social media or review snippets. It's advisable to check the official park website or contact them directly for the most current ticketing information. Reddit

Specific opening hours are not detailed in the provided content. It's recommended to check the park's official channels or local listings before planning your visit to ensure you can access the park during your desired times. Instagram

The provided reviews and social media posts do not mention any admission fees. However, it's always best to confirm this information closer to your visit. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can explore the ruins of the submerged city, enjoy the beautiful lake and its reflections, go bird watching, and relax in the green areas. It's also a great spot for picnics and light walks. InstagramReddit

Yes, the park is described as having nice toys for kids, making it a family-friendly destination. Reddit

Absolutely! The unique submerged ruins and the scenic lake offer beautiful photographic opportunities, especially with the reflections on the water. InstagramReddit

The park features light trails, making it suitable for relaxed exploration. Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking around the ruins and natural areas. Instagram

Yes, the park is noted as a great place for picnics, with beautiful views of the lake. InstagramReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The provided information does not mention any on-site restaurants. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own food for picnics, as it's a popular activity. InstagramReddit

Details on dining options immediately surrounding the park are not provided. It's recommended to explore local eateries in Rio Claro if you're looking for restaurants. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The submerged ruins themselves offer a unique and atmospheric subject. The lake, with its beautiful reflections, is also a prime spot for stunning photography. InstagramReddit

One review mentions the 'Eiffel tower of Rio Claro' being lit up at night, suggesting that nighttime photography might be possible and visually interesting, though specific park access at night isn't detailed. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Parque Ecológico de Rio Claro is a great outing for families. The park offers 'nice toys for the kids,' ensuring they have entertainment while exploring. The light trails are easy for little legs to navigate, and the open green spaces are perfect for running around. Packing a picnic is a fantastic way to make a day of it, with plenty of scenic spots by the lake for a family meal. Reddit

It's a chance for children to learn about history in a tangible way, seeing the remnants of a past town. The natural environment also provides opportunities for spotting birds and enjoying the outdoors. Remember to bring comfortable shoes for everyone and perhaps some snacks and drinks to keep energy levels up during your visit. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers

For those who appreciate nature and light hiking, this park is a wonderful destination. The ecological setting provides a peaceful environment for bird watching and enjoying the scenic lake views. The trails are described as light, making them accessible for a relaxed walk rather than a strenuous hike. Instagram

The unique blend of natural beauty and historical ruins offers a distinctive experience. You can spend hours exploring the remnants of the submerged town, appreciating the quietude and the natural landscape that has reclaimed the area. It’s a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts as well, with the lake’s reflections and the atmospheric ruins. InstagramReddit

🏛️ History Buffs

This park is a must-visit for anyone interested in local history. It's a poignant reminder of a town that was submerged for development, offering a unique 'museum in the open air.' Exploring the ruins allows for a deep reflection on the past and the sacrifices made for progress. Instagram+1

Take your time to wander through the remnants of São João Marcos, imagining life there before the dam. The historical context provided by the park's existence is powerful, making it a site of significant cultural and historical interest. It’s an opportunity to connect with a less-told story of development and its impact. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History of São João Marcos

Parque Ecológico de Rio Claro, also known as Parque Arqueológico e Ambiental de São João Marcos, holds a poignant history. The area was once a thriving town that emerged in 1739, growing into a prosperous coffee-producing village. Its existence was ultimately sacrificed in the 1940s for the construction of the Ribeirão das Lajes dam, leading to its submersion.

Today, the park preserves the remnants of this lost town, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the past. It serves as an open-air museum, allowing for reflection on the impact of development on communities and landscapes. The ruins stand as a testament to the town's former life, creating a contemplative atmosphere for visitors. Instagram+1

This historical context adds a layer of depth to the natural beauty of the park. It's not just a scenic spot but a place that tells a story of change and memory. The experience encourages visitors to consider the 'unnecessary event' that led to the town's submersion, fostering a deeper appreciation for the site. Instagram

Exploring the Ecological Aspects

Beyond its historical significance, Parque Ecológico de Rio Claro is a vibrant ecological space. The park features light, accessible trails that wind through the natural surroundings, making it pleasant for leisurely walks and exploration. The presence of the large lake, Ribeirão das Lajes, contributes significantly to the park's serene ambiance and offers beautiful reflective views.

Bird watching is a popular activity here, with the park providing a habitat for various avian species. Visitors can enjoy observing the local wildlife in a peaceful setting. The green areas are well-maintained, offering ample space for relaxation and outdoor activities like picnics, which are highly recommended by visitors. InstagramReddit

The combination of natural beauty and historical ruins creates a unique environment. It's a place where one can connect with nature while simultaneously engaging with a significant piece of local history. The park is celebrated for its beautiful green areas and the overall tranquility it offers. Reddit