Toca São Gonçalo is a natural retreat located beside the Serra do Papagaio reserve, in Baependi, Minas Gerais, Brazil
Set within one of the richest ecosystems of the Serra da Mantiqueira, it spans 30 hectares of unspoilt nature. A peaceful sanctuary designed for immersive workshops, spiritual retreats and wellbeing-focused activities.
A Retreat in Symbiosis with Nature
Toca is the perfect place for collective immersions, spiritual or healing retreats, holistic gatherings and artistic creations. It offers a rare opportunity to dwell within ancestral architecture, designed to rediscover the strength of community and to forge a deep bond with nature and its energies.
Our space is crafted as a welcoming haven for sharing and connection, overlooking the valley, filled with the sound of waterfalls and centred around a fire pit that kindles warmth and togetherness.
Welcome to our space
Lush Nature and Sacred Waters
The estate is a true paradise, with four waterfalls of crystal-clear water and several natural springs flowing from the earth. The main waterfall stands 32 metres high, and on sunny days, it’s possible to bathe within a rainbow formed by fine droplets suspended in the air.
Beyond the waterfalls, the site also offers natural swimming pools, trails winding through native forest, a trout pond for fishing, and an abundance of wild fruit to enjoy.
Oca
The Oca is a circular structure that can accommodate up to 12 people, ideal for retreats, group experiences, ceremonies and gatherings. Inspired by the Indigenous dwelling traditions of the Upper Xingu, it offers a warm, shared space with a central fire and a view over the valley, encouraging deep connection with nature and ancestral wisdom.
Harvesting Olive Oil, Growing Sacred Plants.
The estate produces artisanal olive oil from 1,200 olive trees, grown and pressed on site, in an emerging regional hub within the Serra da Mantiqueira. We also cultivate, with care and respect, the two sacred plants used in Ayahuasca rituals, offering a setting that supports spiritual practice and ancestral reconnection. This space is exclusively available to groups qualified to conduct the ritual safely and responsibly.
Toca São Gonçalo is a place of deep immersion in nature, where every detail, from birdsong to the starry sky and the freshness of the air, forms part of a living experience of reconnection and symbiosis with the spiritual, ancestral and more than human world.
Spiritual Heart of the Mountains
Toca São Gonçalo is located in Baependi, a historic town of great spiritual significance, renowned for the pilgrimages honouring Nhá Chica — the first Black laywoman in Brazil to be declared blessed by the Catholic Church. She dedicated her life to charity and welcoming the humble, radiating a profound energy of devotion.
Baependi sits beside Caxambu, home to one of the largest concentrations of mineral waters on the planet. At the Water Park (Parque das Águas) there are twelve springs of therapeutic water, each with specific properties, including digestive, diuretic and anti-anaemic benefits, making this region an exceptional destination for holistic wellbeing.
The journey from Baependi to Toca São Gonçalo is 28.7 km along a scenic off-road route. Transfers can be arranged in advance upon request.
Accommodation
Our space offers full facilities for lodging and events, with comfortable and welcoming surroundings. The main house features a kitchen equipped with a wood-burning stove and a gas stove, as well as a termite oven located on the veranda. Both the house and the chalets have private bathrooms, gas-heated water and Wi-Fi. Our flexible facilities include:
- A house with two suites, comfortable and integrated into the natural surroundings
- Two private chalets, ideal for couples or small groups
- A large covered workshop space for activities, courses or events (the Oca), which accommodates 12 sleepers in hammocks.
- Additional accommodation with two more bedrooms
Get in touch to arrange your visit or to book the space. We are here to help you find the best way to welcome your event.