The Xingó Canyon, on the border between Sergipe and Alagoas, is one of the greatest natural wonders of the Northeast, located 200 kilometres from the capital Aracaju.
Considered the fifth largest canyon in the world and the largest navigable canyon, the site has beautiful rocky walls that were naturally sculpted by the climate and winds over 60,000 years ago.
Xingó Canyon in Sergipe
The town of Canindé de São Francisco, located 213 km from Aracaju, in the Alto Sertão region of Sergipe, is the gateway for those wishing to visit the Xingó Tourist Complex, which includes the states of Sergipe, Alagoas and Bahia.
Every day, tourists from different parts of the country take a trip to the Xingó Canyon, the region’s calling card, which has propelled the municipality onto the tourist map of the state and Brazil.
To appreciate such beauty, tourists can leave from Canindé de São Francisco.
From Canindé de São Francisco, there are boats (schooners or catamarans) that take visitors to the dammed part of the São Francisco River and its canyons.
The first sight of the Rio São Francisco or ‘Old Chico’ is fascinating.
By the São Francisco River we sail to the Xingó Canyon. The journey to the canyons takes an hour – enough time to appreciate the landscape and discover how it was formed.
Two decades ago, the region was dry, covered by caatinga. But in 1994, when the waters were dammed for the construction of the Xingó hydroelectric dam, the scenery changed.
The riverbed rose almost a hundred metres and formed a kind of paradise.
Map of the Xingó Canyon SE
The natural scenery formed by the caatinga vegetation and all the exuberance of the São Francisco River can be seen from the start of the tour at the Karrancas Port, located on the dam embankment of the Xingó Hydroelectric Plant, built in the 1970s and which gave rise to the 5th largest navigable canyon in the world.
The Xingó Canyon is formed by a deep valley, 65 kilometres long, 170 metres deep and ranging in width from 50 to 300 metres.
According to geological studies, the site was the bottom of the sea around 65 million years ago. When the tectonic plates split, one receded to where it is today and left an open crack.
An hour into the journey, the catamaran docks in a kind of artificial harbour. People can already queue up to get into the natural pool.
Cânion do Xingó
The water of the São Francisco River is crystal clear, very green, not cold, but very good. For the heat here, it’s an excellent option.
In Canindé de São Francisco there are hotels and inns – most of them close to the river.
The Xingó Tourist Complex and the São Francisco Canyon are two of the main tourist attractions in the São Francisco River region, covering parts of the states of Sergipe and Alagoas. The combination of these attractions offers visitors a unique experience of natural beauty, adventure and historical learning.
1. Tourist Attractions and Activities
1.1. Xingó Canyon
One of the largest navigable canyons in the world, with green waters and impressive rock formations. Catamaran and schooner trips are popular, offering breathtaking views of the canyon walls and the chance to swim at specific points.
1.2. Xingó Hydroelectric Power Station
Guided tours of the plant show the magnitude of this engineering feat and its importance for power generation in Brazil. Tourists can learn how the plant works and see the impressive structures up close.
1.3. Talhado Cave
A fascinating rock formation that can be explored during boat trips. The cave is known for its crystal-clear waters and beautiful stalactites and stalagmites.
1.4. Xingó Archaeology Museum (MAX)
Located in Canindé de São Francisco, the museum displays archaeological artefacts found in the region, providing an interesting insight into the history and culture of the ancient peoples who inhabited the area.
1.5. Canindé Beach
An artificial beach created on the banks of the São Francisco River, ideal for relaxing and swimming. The beach has infrastructure to welcome tourists, with stalls and restaurants.
1.6. Ilha do Ouro
An island in the São Francisco River accessible by boat, offering a peaceful environment and great opportunities for picnics and outdoor activities.
2. Tips for Visiting
2.1. Best Time to Visit
The climate in the region is semi-arid, with high temperatures all year round. The months from June to September, with the lowest probability of rainfall, are ideal for making the most of outdoor activities.
2.2. Accommodation
There are various accommodation options in Canindé de São Francisco, including inns, hotels and resorts. Booking in advance is advisable, especially during the high season.
2.3. How to get there
The city of Canindé de São Francisco is the main starting point for exploring the Xingó Complex. It is located around 200 kilometres from Aracaju, the capital of Sergipe. It can be reached by car or by organised excursions.
2.4. Organised Tours
Various tourist agencies offer packages that include boat trips through the canyon, visits to the power station and other activities. Opting for an organised tour can make logistics easier and provide a more complete experience.
Tourist and Travel Guide to the Xingó Canyon in Sergipe
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