More than just contemplating nature, Vila Velha (PR) is a place to experience.

The exuberance and importance of Vila Velha for Paraná's Tourism are undisputed. It is one of the most famous postcards in the State, with other sandstone formations, sinkholes, forest, and lagoons within a large 3,000-hectare environmental preservation area. Since 2019, with the destination concession to Soul Parques, the nature of Paraná has gained valuable allies to make the local experience even more complete and extensive. An example is the attractions of Sinkholes, which attract families and groups to further experience nature.

According to Sebrae, the so-called Experiential Tourism provides significant and meaningful experiences, moving away from a traditional tour. It encompasses activities that generate emotion through tourist involvement and participation. In Vila Velha, the Sinkholes attractions and the new children's area fall within this concept. Soon, the Park will also feature the activation of the panoramic elevator.

Tree Climbing and Zipline: for adults and children

Children of all ages can experience nature from different angles with Tree Climbing and Zipline. The circuit among the trees is 120 meters long and challenges the balance between body and mind amidst the treetops. It is eight meters high, with ten different activities, all with safety and adrenaline. People from 1.40 m tall and weighing up to 110 kg can participate. The Zipline, on the other hand, delights with its 200-meter path over a sinkhole. With a moderate slope, the ride reaches an average speed of 50 km/h and has weight restrictions (up to 110 kg) and height restrictions (from 1.20m). But what about the little ones?

In 2023, a children's recreation area was inaugurated, which, in a way, replicates the challenge of the "adult" spaces. The space was designed for children to have fun safely and includes Little Zipline Circuit, Swings, Round Swing, Rope Climber, Slide, Ramp, and Challenge Circuit.

"This is a space entirely dedicated to children because often parents would venture into our attractions, such as the zipline and tree climbing, and the little ones, for safety reasons, could not participate. In this way, adults and children have fun equally," says Leandro Ribas, Manager of Soul Vila Velha, the Park's concessionaire.

Reactivation of the Panoramic Elevator

The large fences around the Andorinhões Sinkhole already reveal Vila Velha's next attraction. The panoramic elevator will be reactivated in 2025, after the mapping of the local fauna and the machinery's revitalization. The experience will allow a 50-meter descent into the sinkhole, admiring the grandeur of the cave and the rock formations of the site from another perspective. The equipment was installed in the 1980s and operated until 2002.

What to bring to Vila Velha

The Park is accessible, as it has paved trails and buses/jeeps that take tourists from one attraction to another. However, it is good to prepare to enjoy the tour. It is recommended to bring:

- Backpack with water, sunscreen, and insect repellent;

- Comfortable sneakers; pants, even in the heat (to protect yourself from venomous animals and low vegetation)

- Jacket or windbreaker (the region is quite windy)

- Camera or cell phone with plenty of memory (you can take beautiful photos on-site)

*journalist visited the Park at the invitation of Soul Parques