Imagine standing on one of the largest steel and glass platforms in Latin America, suspended high above the lush landscape of Canela, Brazil. For around $26.63 per person, you get approximately 2 to 3 hours of awe-inspiring sights, including a walk on glass at a towering height of 360 meters over the Caí River bed. This experience is designed for those craving a dash of adrenaline combined with incredible scenery.
What we love about this tour is the thrill of walking on glass supported by steel cables, offering a flexible and slightly swaying platform that advances 68 meters past the cliff, giving you the sensation of floating over the landscape. We also appreciate the chance to visit the Iron Memorial included in the ticket, which adds a touch of historical context and a chance to learn about the region’s industrial past.
On the flip side, a consideration worth noting is that the platform can be quite crowded on busy days and the experience might feel a bit rushed or limited if you’re expecting a spacious walk. Also, some reviews mention the high cost relative to the size of the platform, which might influence your perception of value.
This tour is well-suited for adventure seekers, photography enthusiasts, and those interested in spectacular vistas. If you’re comfortable with heights and enjoy scenic overlooks, this will likely be a memorable highlight of your trip to the Serra Gaúcha region.
Key Points
- Unique Glass Platform: Walk on one of Latin America’s largest steel and glass platforms, offering impressive views and a sense of floating.
- Stunning Vistas: The platform overlooks the Vale da Ferradura and the Caí River bed, perfect for photography and scenic contemplation.
- Included Iron Memorial: Adds educational value, showcasing the region’s industrial history.
- Crowd and Cost: Can be crowded, and some find the price high compared to the size of the platform.
- Safety and Organization: Well-organized with safety measures, but weather can influence the experience.
- Best for Thrill-Seekers: Those comfortable with heights and looking for a scenic adrenaline rush will enjoy this tour the most.
Detailed Review of the Skyglass Canela Experience
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The Location and Overview
The Skyglass Canela tour whisks you to an altitude where the ground seems to fall away beneath a transparent platform of steel and glass. Located in the charming town of Canela, Brazil, this attraction is truly a feat of engineering. It promises a height of 360 meters above the Caí River, giving visitors a panoramic view that’s hard to match in Latin America. The ticket costs about $26.63 per person, and most visitors book about two weeks in advance—an indication of its popularity.
The experience lasts roughly 2 to 3 hours, enough time to take in the views, snap photos, and explore the exhibits. Interestingly, your ticket grants access not only to the glass platform but also to the Iron Memorial, which offers a quick history lesson on the region’s metalworking past. The overall package combines a dash of adventure with cultural insight.
What Makes This Experience Special?
First and foremost, the thrill of walking on glass is unlike anything else in the region. Supported by steel cables, the platform has a gentle sway that enhances the feeling of being suspended in mid-air. The glass surface is transparent, so as you step forward, you see the landscape far below. It’s a surreal feeling—some describe it as “floating over the void”—and it’s definitely a highlight for adrenaline junkies and scenic lovers alike.
Second, the views are genuinely breathtaking. From the platform, you overlook the Vale da Ferradura—a horseshoe-shaped valley—plus the lush greenery and winding Caí River bed. Many reviewers comment on how perfect the timing is for catching a sunset, which adds a magical glow to the landscape. The platform also features a deck where visitors often pause for photos, making it a prime spot for social media-worthy shots.
A Closer Look at the Itinerary
The main stop, Skyglass Canela, is what draws most visitors. The platform extends 68 meters past the cliff, with 35 meters of clearance after the central pillar, providing a sense of depth that heightens the experience. It’s supported by steel cables, which lend a slight flexibility—some say a “swing”—that amplifies the adrenaline rush.
Adjacent to the platform is a food court offering fast foods, coffee, and wines. It’s a good spot to relax before or after your walk. For those interested in history, the ticket also includes a visit to the Memorial do Ferro, where you can learn about the development and significance of the region’s iron industry. Several reviews appreciate this educational component, noting it adds depth beyond just the thrill.
The Crowds and Customer Feedback
Reviews reveal a spectrum of experiences. Many praise the spectacular landscapes and photographic opportunities, with one reviewer remarking, “the feeling of floating over the void is very cool,” and another calling it “a wonderful place, worth going.” The security measures and organization are generally well-regarded, with visitors feeling safe during their walk.
However, some express frustration over crowds and costs. A review from 2022 mentions that the platform can feel quite crowded, especially during peak times, which affects photo opportunities and the overall leisurely experience. Plus, the ticket price is considered high for the size of the platform—a common sentiment among those who felt it was overpriced for the brief, though intense, experience.
Some visitors also mention parking logistics as somewhat inconvenient, with parking costing an extra R$30 (Brazilian reais). The experience itself is not recommended for people with certain health conditions, such as intense labyrinthitis or mental disorders, due to the height and the slight sway of the platform.
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Comfort and Practical Details
The meeting point is at the Skyglass Canela ticket redemption area on R. Constante Félix Orsolin. The attraction is open daily from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM, providing ample time for a visit. Since personal belongings are not allowed on the platform to avoid environmental pollution, plan to leave valuables in the provided secure storage or at home.
Weather conditions can influence the experience—rain or wind may cause cancellations or discomfort. The tour operator offers a full refund if canceled due to poor weather, which is reassuring for cautious travelers.
Who Will Appreciate This Tour?
This experience best suits adventure lovers, photography buffs, and those seeking a unique perspective on nature. If heights don’t bother you and you want a memorable photo op, this is a must-do. Conversely, if you’re on a strict budget or prefer more spacious, longer-lasting attractions, you might find the value less compelling.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
For stunning vistas and a dash of adrenaline, Skyglass Canela offers a genuinely memorable outing. The combination of a thrilling walk on glass, spectacular views, and educational exhibits makes it stand out in the landscape of sightseeing in Brazil. However, be prepared for potential crowds and the possibility that the experience might feel brief or pricey compared to the size of the platform.
If you’re comfortable with heights, and you’re eager to capture some incredible photos of the Vale da Ferradura, this tour can be a highlight of your visit to Canela. Just keep in mind the weather and plan accordingly to maximize your experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an age limit for walking on the glass platform?
Most travelers can participate, but the tour is not recommended for people with acute labyrinthitis or certain mental conditions, due to the height and sway of the platform.
How long does the tour last?
The experience typically lasts between 2 to 3 hours, giving you time to enjoy the walk, take photos, and visit the Iron Memorial.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most visitors book about 16 days in advance and the ticket includes access to the platform and the Iron Memorial.
What should I bring?
Personal belongings are not allowed on the platform, so leave valuables at home or in secure lockers. Also, wear comfortable shoes and check the weather forecast—it’s an outdoor experience vulnerable to rain or wind.
Is parking included?
No, parking costs about R$30, and it’s best to arrive early to avoid congestion, especially on weekends.
What about safety?
The platform is supported by steel cables, with safety railings and restrictions, making it a secure experience when weather conditions are suitable.
The Sum Up
Skyglass Canela offers a blend of adventure, breathtaking scenery, and a touch of history, making it an engaging outing for those seeking a memorable view and a bit of adrenaline. Its stunning vantage point over the Vale da Ferradura makes it an ideal choice for photographers and thrill-seekers alike.
While it’s true that the platform is relatively small and the costs might seem steep to some, the spectacular vistas and unique experience justify the visit for many. It’s best suited for those comfortable with heights, eager to capture dramatic images, and interested in experiencing one of Latin America’s largest glass and steel structures.
If you’re prepared for the crowds and the potential for weather delays, this tour can be a highlight of your trip, offering memories that will stay with you long after you’ve left the Serra Gaúcha. Just remember to bring your sense of adventure—and maybe a good camera!
Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a landscape photographer, or simply curious about standing on glass high above the earth, Skyglass Canela promises a one-of-a-kind experience worthy of your travel list.