Destination
Caminho do Ouro: Paraty's Historic Stone Gold Trail
The same cobblestones the gold of Minas descended to the coast on in the 18th century, now a guided trail through the Atlantic forest. What to expect.
In the 18th century, all the gold mined in Minas Gerais came down to the port of Paraty along a stone road cut into the Serra da Bocaina — the Caminho do Ouro, part of the Estrada Real (Royal Road). Stretches of that original paving survived the forest and today form one of Brazil's most striking historic trails.
History underfoot
The cobblestones were laid by enslaved hands, and walking them is, literally, stepping on Brazil's colonial history. The route passes the ruins of old bridges and toll points, amid some of the best-preserved forest in the region.
The trail
The most-visited section is a guided 2-to-3-hour walk (round trip), with moderate climbs and waterfall-swim stops along the way. A credentialed guide is required, both for safety and to make sense of the history — which makes all the difference.
Is it worth it?
If you like blending nature and history, it's one of Paraty's richest outings — and a perfect counterpoint to a day on a boat. Wear shoes with good grip: the stones get slippery, especially after rain.
