Peter Wilhelm Lund, the 'father of Brazilian paleontology,' considered Maquiné the most beautiful cave he ever explored.
The cave contains fossilized remains of extinct Pleistocene megafauna, including giant sloths and saber-toothed tigers.
It is composed of limestone rocks belonging to the Bambuí Group, dating back approximately 600 million years.
The interior temperature remains constant at approximately 23°C (73°F) year-round, regardless of external weather.
Unlike many other caves in the region, Maquiné is relatively dry, with very little active water seepage currently forming new deposits.
The seventh chamber, known as 'Salão do Trono' (Throne Room), features one of the largest and most intricate stalagmite formations in the complex.
The cave was the first in Brazil to be opened specifically for scientific and tourist visitation in the 19th century.
The acoustic properties of the 'Salão dos Lagos' were historically noted for their unusual resonance.
The cave system acts as a natural laboratory for studying cave-dwelling insects and specialized troglobitic species.
Gruta do Maquiné is a significant limestone cave system in Cordisburgo, Minas Gerais, famously explored by Danish naturalist Peter Wilhelm Lund in 1834. The site features seven primary chambers accessible via 650 meters of illuminated, pedestrian-friendly subterranean trails. The cave is renowned for its diverse speleological formations, including large stalactites, stalagmites, and rare helictites. It serves as a Monumento Natural Estadual, emphasizing geological preservation and scientific study. The cavern displays varied topography, ranging from narrow corridors to expansive halls with vaulted ceilings. It remains one of the most studied and iconic caves in Brazil due to its historical archaeological significance. Recent visitor infrastructure includes paved paths and handrails to navigate the varied elevations safely.
The 'Salão das Colunas,' where the density of limestone pillars creates a dramatic visual depth.
Wear shoes with excellent grip, as the internal walkways can become slick due to high humidity.
Bring a light jacket if you are sensitive to consistent underground temperatures.
Follow your guide closely, as the trail requires navigating stairs and low-clearance passages.
Do not attempt to touch the cave walls or stray from the marked paths, as the cavern is a protected geological site.
Closed on Mondays for routine maintenance and site inspections.
Do not touch the limestone formations, as human skin oils prevent mineral growth and cause irreversible damage.
