Estrada do Inferno Serra da Canastra

The aptly named Estrada do Inferno winds 65 kilometers through the Serra da Canastra’s diamond-bearing highlands, connecting the headwaters of the São Francisco River to abandoned mining settlements dating to the 1700s. This route climbs through cerrado grasslands punctuated by quartzite outcrops and plunges into deep valleys where waterfalls like Casca D’Anta cascade 186 meters off table mountains. The road passes through Vargem Bonita, where old stone foundations mark Brazil’s first systematic diamond operations.

Difficult rating due to steep gradients, loose rock surfaces, and stream crossings that become torrents during rainy season. High-clearance 4WD with skid plates essential for the rocky descents into canyon bottoms. Best attempted April-September during dry season when water levels are manageable. No permits needed but register with park authorities at São Roque de Minas. Limited fuel availability — carry extra. The payoff includes some of Brazil’s most spectacular waterfall photography and access to pristine cerrado wilderness where giant anteaters and maned wolves still roam freely.