Aldeia Velha
Forró Events
Check local pages and social media for forró events.
Travel Guide
About Aldeia Velha
Aldeia Velha is an ecological district of the municipality of Silva Jardim, at the foot of the Serra do Mar mountain range, less than 3 hours from downtown Rio de Janeiro (~135km). It's located in the APA São João (Environmental Protection Area), in front of the entrance to the Reserva Biológica de Poço das Antas — Brazil's first biological reserve, internationally known for the preservation of the mico-leão-dourado (golden lion tamarin) (population grew from 200 in the 1970s to ~4,800 in 2023).
The village has become a center for forró pé de serra, with regular festivals and an interior charm that wins everyone over. It is also home to the Aldeia Rock Festival (the "Woodstock of Rio"), which takes place during Holy Week.
When to Go
- June (Corpus Christi): Aldeia Velha Forró Festival (13th edition)
- December 27-31: New Year's Edition of the Forró Festival
- Holy Week: Aldeia Rock Festival
- Weekends: Live forró in the late afternoon in the village center
- September to March: Best time for waterfalls (greater water volume)
- Winter (Jun-Aug): Mild climate, perfect for forró and trails
Climate
Humid subtropical. Hot and rainy summer (28-35°C). Mild and dry winter (15-25°C). Cool nights — bring a light jacket.
Tips and Cautions
- Money: There is no bank or pharmacy in the village (the closest are in Casimiro de Abreu or Silva Jardim). Bring cash, Pix may fail.
- Road: Access via BR-101, Casimiro de Abreu exit, then 8km of dirt road to the village. Any car can pass.
- Rides: Common in the region. There are "Caronas Aldeia Velha" groups to arrange trips.
- Mosquitoes: Atlantic Forest region, use repellent.
- Waterfalls: Check weather conditions before visiting, especially on rainy days. Some trails require a local guide.
- Festival Accommodation: Book well in advance — the village is small and fills up quickly.
- Craft Beer: The village has its own brewery — Cervejaria Aldeia Velha, with 5 styles.
- Cell Phone Signal: Unstable. Bring cash as a backup.
Places Guide
Getting There 4
Rio international airport. Distance: ~135km (2h-2h30 drive).
Rio de Janeiro, RJRio domestic airport. Distance: ~140km (2h-2h30 drive).
Rio de Janeiro, RJFrom Rio, BR-101 towards Casimiro de Abreu. At the exit, follow signs to Aldeia Velha (8km dirt road).
BR-101, Casimiro de Abreu, RJ1001 bus from Rio to Casimiro de Abreu. Ask to stop at the Aldeia Velha entrance. From there 8km — hitchhike (common), B...
Rodoviária Novo Rio, RJWhere to Stay 4
Pool with wet bar, heated pool, sauna, games room, playground, pony rides, restaurant. Surrounded by Atlantic Forest.
Estrada Da Aldeia Velha, 1953, Silva Jardim, RJOnly guesthouse with breakfast overlooking the river. Simple, cozy suites steps from crystal-clear water. Camping area. ...
Rua 2 Cond. Beira Rio, Aldeia Velha, RJPool, Wi-Fi, restaurant, tents and chalets from budget to premium. Hot showers, shared kitchen.
Rua Santana, 591, Aldeia Velha, RJBreakfast with Macaé River views. Natural pool, sauna.
Aldeia Velha, Silva Jardim, RJWhere to Eat 3
The main forró and gastronomy spot. Shows on weekends and holidays at night.
Rua Santana, Aldeia VelhaCraft brewery and restaurant. 5 beer styles (hop lager, pale ale, weiss, stout, IPA). Factory tour available.
Aldeia Velha, RJMain concentration of bars and restaurants. Home cooking, vegetarian options available.
Rua Santana, Aldeia VelhaThings to Do 6
Main attraction. 12-15m waterfall with 5m deep crystal-clear pool. 25m rappelling. Interpretive trail ~10min. Wed-Sun 8a...
Estrada do Macharet, s/n, Aldeia VelhaMore secluded waterfall, 1km past Andorinhas. Has snack bar and restrooms. R$5.
1km após Cachoeira das AndorinhasSeven-tiered waterfall. Stunning scenery in the Atlantic Forest.
Próximo a Aldeia VelhaBrazil's first biological reserve. Golden lion tamarin habitat. Guided visits by the Golden Lion Tamarin Association.
BR-101, Silva Jardim, RJHistoric chapel in the heart of the village. Central landmark.
Centro, Aldeia VelhaMeeting of rivers 13km from center, toward Lumiar/Nova Friburgo. Accessible by horse or jeep tour.
13km de Aldeia Velha