Countryside Adventure at Ibitipoca Estate, Brazil

A hidden wilderness in the beautiful state of Minas Gerais. You could lose yourself at Ibitipoca for days, even weeks. 

In less than 4 hours from Rio de Janeiro, you arrive in the vast estate of Comuna do Ibitipoca. 

Once off the motorway, it’s a bumpy and pot-holed road for about 40 minutes (our hire car was put to the test!) before arriving at the main lodge, Engenho. This is the heart of the property, where guests unwind in peaceful surroundings, sleeping in colonial style bedrooms to the sound of birdsong and the resident Macaw, Antonio (who seemingly only likes girls!). The toucan who joined us at breakfast was a bit friendlier. 

Delicious and healthy meals are served either in the main house, under the shade of a tree or even by one of the many natural pools. Every day is full of little surprises and you are left wondering each morning what delightful touches are coming next. 

So, to the activities… 

There is so much one can do here on foot, by vehicle or on horse-back and owing to the enormity of the property, you could spend a week here and only touch the surface. 

A highlight for me and my family was walking up to the Burning Man statues, through jungle and river passes and ending up swimming in natural pools having found a surprise picnic laid out for us on the rocks. 

I also loved my ride with my son around the gardens near the main house. I just wish I had had more time to explore more of the trails on horseback. 

Relaxing in the jacuzzi at the end of the day and yoga session each morning top and tailed each day perfectly. 

About 30 minutes from the main lodge is a new creation and project on the Ibitipoca estate…A 20 person town called Mogol. Here, the owners are building little houses for guests who want a wholesome village experience. Still surrounded by vast wilderness with plenty to do, but sleeping in rustic town houses and switching off from life’s daily excesses. The village’s vegan restaurant is where visitors dine-out along with the local inhabitants. If you come to Mogol and choose this special but simple experience, you’ll be looked after by the charming Berino, the resident guide and manager. We really enjoyed getting to know Berino and learning about his life history. Guests will no doubt leave Mogul feeling rested and cleansed of the hectic life-style in which we live. 

To conclude… I was blown away by my experience at Ibitipoca. It exceeded all my expectations, was wholesome and inspiring.