Caldas Novas

Brazil's largest hot spring resort town featuring thermal water parks and spas set in lush countryside. Popular for relaxation, wellness treatments, and family entertainment.

Things to do

• Parque Aquático de Caldas Novas — The largest water park in South America featuring natural thermal pools, slides, and wave pools heated by geothermal springs.
• Spa treatments at local resorts — Indulge in massages, mud wraps, and hydrotherapy using mineral-rich thermal waters from the region's natural springs.
• Rio Quente Resorts thermal pools — Explore multiple open-air thermal swimming areas set within lush gardens where visitors can relax in naturally heated waters of varying temperatures.
• Cachoeira da Piranhas waterfall hike — Trek through countryside to this scenic waterfall located in the surrounding hills, offering a refreshing natural pool for swimming.
• Coroa do Cerrado viewpoint — Climb to this hilltop lookout point for panoramic views of the thermal resort town and surrounding cerrado landscape.
• Visit local artisan markets — Browse handcrafted goods, gemstones, and local products at weekend markets and shops throughout the town center.

Food to try

• Truta à Almendega — Locally-caught fresh trout prepared with almond sauce, reflecting the region's freshwater fishing traditions.
• Bolo de Milho — A traditional cornmeal cake that is a beloved local specialty often served with coffee or as a dessert in regional restaurants.
• Tucunaré grelhado — Grilled peacock bass, a popular freshwater fish from nearby rivers, seasoned simply to highlight its delicate flavor.
• Caldeirada de peixe — A hearty fish stew combining local river fish with vegetables and broth, representing Goiás regional comfort food.
• Água mineral natural com frutas — Refreshing drinks made with the region's famous mineral water combined with local tropical fruits like passion fruit and açaí.

Local customs & good to know

• Thermal water etiquette — Respect posted temperature zones in pools and thermal areas, as some springs reach extremely high temperatures; always test water before entering.
• Peak season timing — Book accommodations and treatments well in advance during Brazilian school holidays (July, December-January) when the resort fills with families seeking wellness breaks.
• Embrace the wellness culture — The town's identity centers on health and relaxation; expect a slower pace and rhythm aligned with spa and thermal bathing schedules rather than nightlife tourism.
• Local Portuguese dialect — Residents speak Brazilian Portuguese with a Central-West accent; English is limited outside major resort hotels, so basic Portuguese phrases are helpful.