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Ibitipoca Reserve is a private nature reserve and a social enterprise that spans over 5,000 hectares of pristine rainforest, valleys, caves and waterfalls. It’s home to a collection of restored houses, each with its own character and charm, that offer guests a unique and immersive experience of rural Brazil. You can explore the reserve on foot or on horseback, enjoy delicious local cuisine, relax at the spa or yoga studio, and learn about the history and culture of the region.
Unique or special aspects
What makes Ibitipoca Reserve special is its vision of sustainability and community empowerment. The reserve was created in 1981 with the aim of restoring the native flora and fauna and creating wildlife corridors with the neighbouring state park. It also supports local communities by providing employment, education, health care and cultural activities. The reserve hosts events and workshops to raise awareness about environmental and social issues, such as reforestation, organic farming and animal welfare.
Setting
Ibitipoca Reserve is located in Minas Gerais, a state known for its colonial heritage, artistic expression and natural beauty. The reserve is surrounded by the Serra da Mantiqueira mountain range, which offers stunning views and diverse landscapes. The nearest town is Lima Duarte, where you can find shops, restaurants and banks. The reserve is about 3.5 hours drive from Rio de Janeiro, or you can take a helicopter transfer for a faster and more scenic journey.
Style
Ibitipoca Reserve has a variety of accommodation options to suit different tastes and budgets. The main lodge is Engenho Lodge, an 18th-century farmhouse that has been elegantly restored with eight suites, a restaurant, a spa and a sauna. The lodge has a colonial style with original features and furniture, as well as modern amenities such as iPod docks, personalised Havaianas and L’Occitane Brasil toiletries. The other houses are scattered around the reserve, each with its own design and location. You can choose from rustic cottages, cozy lofts or spacious villas, all with private bathrooms and views of the forest or the town.
Puma, ocelot maned wolf
Hike, bike, horseride through Brazil’s Atlantic Forest
Help local community to conserve species
Once a 18th century family farm, converted to a natural sanctuary in the 1980s to serve as a wildlife corridor
Now protects over 5000 hectares of land
Wine cellar, sauna, jacuzzi
Daily guided hikes
Many waterfalls
Sustainability
Ibitipoca Reserve is a model of sustainability and environmental consciousness. The reserve uses renewable energy sources such as solar panels, geothermal heating and cooling systems, rainwater harvesting and composting toilets. The buildings are made of natural materials such as clay, wood and stone, providing insulation and breathability. The food is sourced from organic gardens or local producers, and the menu is mostly plant-based. The reserve also recycles waste, reduces plastic use and offsets carbon emissions.
Ibitipoca Reserve is not only a nature reserve but also a social enterprise that supports local communities and culture. The reserve employs local staff, sources products from ethical suppliers and cooperatives, and donates part of its profits to social projects. The reserve also hosts events and workshops to empower local people and promote their artistic expression, such as music festivals, art exhibitions and craft fairs. The reserve also works with schools and health centres to provide education and health care to the residents.
Rooms
Ibitipoca Reserve offers 21 rooms of different sizes and types, all with private bathrooms and views of the forest or the town. The rooms are named after animals or plants that can be found in the area, such as Jaguar, Hummingbird or Orchid. The rooms are equipped with organic cotton sheets, vegan pillows and duvets, natural toiletries and hairdryers. Some rooms also have balconies or terraces.
Food and drink
The food at Ibitipoca Reserve is a highlight of the stay. The menu is based on local specialties with a plant-based twist, made with fresh ingredients from the garden or nearby farms. You can enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner at Engenho Lodge’s restaurant or at one of the other four restaurants around the reserve. You can also taste organic wines and olive oils from the reserve’s own vineyard and olive grove.
Things to do
There is plenty to do at Ibitipoca Reserve and in the surrounding area. You can join guided excursions on foot or on horseback to explore the reserve’s natural wonders such as waterfalls, caves and valleys. You can also take part in cultural tours of Lima Duarte or other nearby towns. If you are feeling adventurous you can try zip-lining canopy tours mountain biking or paragliding.
Wider region
Minas Gerais is one of the most beautiful regions in Brazil, rich in history, art, culture and nature. From Ibitipoca Reserve you can easily visit some of the most famous towns in the area, such as Ouro Preto, Tiradentes or Mariana. You can also explore the countryside by bike or on foot, admiring the rolling hills, cypress trees and colonial villages.
Getting there
The nearest airport to Ibitipoca Reserve is Rio de Janeiro International Airport (GIG) which is about 270 km away You can take bus train from Rio de Janeiro to Juiz de Fora (about 3 hours) then take taxi local bus to Lima Duarte (about 1 hour) Alternatively you can rent car at airport book transfer service with reserve
