Pancas is undoubtedly the main traditional climbing destination in the state of Espírito Santo. Every year, climbers from all over Brazil come to face the impressive granite towers known as pontões.
The area offers over 60 routes, from legendary classics like “Chaminé Brasília,” a 450-meter chimney climb, to modern challenges such as “Obrigado Amigos,” the hardest route in Pancas (graded 9a). Whether you're into old-school climbing or looking to push your limits, Pancas has something for everyone.
Among the most iconic climbs is “Face Oculta,” featured in the book The 50 Classics
Every year, from May to September, Ilhabela becomes the stage for a breathtaking natural event: the migration of humpback whales. Drawn by the warm, nutrient-rich waters, these ocean giants come to rest, feed, and sometimes even give birth.
The show is spectacular—impressive breaches, synchronized swimming, and the occasional melodic songs of these whales. You can spot them on boat tours or from coastal viewpoints, especially in the south of the island. With a bit of luck, it’s possible to watch them right from the central beaches like Perequê, Itaguaçu, or Praia do Curral.
Ilhabela even honors
The Graxaim-do-campo, or Pampas fox, is a small wild canid found in southern Brazil, especially in the cerrado and pampa biomes. It’s medium-sized, measuring about 60 cm (excluding the tail) and weighing 4 to 8 kg. It has a grey-brown coat and a bushy tail.
An omnivore, it feeds on small mammals, fruit, insects, and sometimes carrion. It is mostly solitary and nocturnal. Although not currently endangered, its habitat is threatened by agriculture and habitat fragmentation.
Photo : Cláudio Dias Timm via Wikimedia Commons
