Visit Caldas Novas

Relatively few non-Brazilians make their way to Caldas Novas, a city tucked away in central Brazil. Those that do will find a collection of some of the world's largest hydrothermal resorts, thanks to the presence of hot water springs on the banks of the Caldas River.

By far Caldas Novas' most alluring feature is its thermal waters, which feed everything from spa resorts to theme parks to hotel swimming pools. diRoma Acqua Park offers water slides, saunas, a wave pool and sand courts. At Nautico Praia Clube on nearby Corumbá Lake, you'll find restaurants, bars, a pirate ship and even more water slides. Visitors in town for a more relaxing holiday spend their days at surrounding spa hotels, which offer more exclusive access to hot tubs as well as specialised treatments.

Caldas Novas is most famous for its hot springs, but the town also offers much in the way of nature. The Japanese Garden was inspired by Buddhist gardens and features serene corners for meditation. More tranquility can be found at Corumbá Lake, whose calm waters provide great conditions for jet-skiing, sailing and fishing. For a look at a wider variety of Brazilian flora and fauna, head to Serra de Caldas State Park to see waterfalls, lookout points and a multitude of bird species.