Paraiba do Sul River in Brazil

The Paraiba do Sul River is located in southeastern Brazil. It originates in the Sierra do Mar in the state of São Paulo at the confluence of the Paraytinga and Paraybuna rivers. The length of the river is 1120 kilometers. On its way to the northeast, the river flows through the three states of Brazil, filling with tributaries, and serves as a natural border between Minas Gerais and Rio de Janeiro. In the San Fidelis area, where Paraiba do Sul reaches the coastal plain, the river forms several picturesque waterfalls popular with tourists. It flows into the Atlantic Ocean north of San Juan da Barra.

Paraiba do Sul Valley is very fertile. It was the first place to grow Brazilian coffee. In the 19th century it was called the Valley of Coffee. At that time, 75 percent of the world’s coffee crop was grown here. The region prospered: new cities and fazends appeared. Today there are 15 municipalities in the river valley.

Every year at the end of July, the Coffee Valley Festival takes place in the Valley of Coffee. Events are held in 14 cities of the valley and attract more than 600 thousand people from all over the world. In the program: street processions, drum dancing, concerts of the best musical performers of Brazil, competitions for young musicians. Guests of the festival can even take courses in playing national instruments.

Old fazends are invited to tasting coffee and traditional sweets.