NATURAL AND CULTURAL LAGUNA- Santa Marta Lighthouse, Botos Pescadores and Anita Garibaldi

A Complete Look at the Natural and Cultural Laguna Tour in Florianopolis

If you’re seeking a day that balances natural beauty with cultural insights, the Laguna tour offered by Ao Sul Natural is hard to beat. For $73.67 per person, you’ll spend about eight hours exploring some of the most compelling sights of southern Santa Catarina: the Santa Marta Lighthouse, the Sanctuary of Botos Pescadores, the historic center of Laguna, and the Anita Garibaldi Museum. The journey feels thoughtfully curated, with a good mix of outdoor scenery, history, and local cuisine.

What we love most about this experience are the chance to see the largest lighthouse in the Americas—impressive both visually and historically—and the opportunity to witness the symbiosis between Botos (dolphins) and local fishermen, a touching display of harmony with nature. Plus, enjoying a local typical dish on the banks of the Canal da Barra adds an authentic flavor to the day.

One possible consideration is that this tour involves quite a bit of driving and walking, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with a full day on the move. It’s ideal for those interested in history, wildlife, and scenic landscapes who want a well-rounded, immersive experience rather than just beach-hopping.

If you’re a curious traveler who appreciates stories behind places—as the reviews highlight—and enjoys local food and culture, this tour offers a balanced and memorable day out. It’s perfect for those who want to go beyond the typical beach visit and see a side of Brazil that’s full of stories and natural wonders.

Key Points

• Diverse Highlights: Combines natural sights, historical landmarks, and cultural museums.
• Authentic Experiences: Enjoy local dishes and see traditional fishing practices.
• Impressive Landmarks: Visits the largest lighthouse in the Americas and ancient sambaquis.
• Flexible & Private: The tour is private, ensuring personalized attention.
• Value for Money: A full day’s exploration at a reasonable price.
• Great for Curious Travelers: Ideal for those interested in history, nature, and local culture.

Exploring Laguna’s Natural and Cultural Wonders in Detail

Santa Marta Lighthouse: A Beacon in the Atlantic

The tour kicks off with a visit to the Santa Marta Lighthouse, the largest in the Americas. Standing tall on the cliffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, this lighthouse is not just a navigational aid but also an iconic symbol of Laguna’s maritime history. Expect to spend about two hours here, where you can soak in panoramic views and take photos of this impressive structure.

According to reviews, travelers appreciate the opportunity to see this massive lighthouse up close and learn about its significance. The surroundings also feature ancient sambaquis, or shell mounds, that date back millennia. These archaeological sites offer a glimpse into the lives of the Sambaquian Peoples, whose remains still lie in the area, giving the visit a historical depth that enriches the experience.

Anita Garibaldi Museum: A Personal Connection to History

Next, the tour includes a visit to the Anita Garibaldi Museum, dedicated to the legendary figure of Brazilian and Italian history. While the tour time here is about 30 minutes, it provides an important context about Laguna’s role in national history. Anita Garibaldi was a heroine in two worlds, and her story is intertwined with the local past.

Visitors often mention the museum’s ability to convey her story efficiently, making it a meaningful stop. While admission isn’t included, the museum’s location in Laguna makes it a worthwhile detour for history buffs or anyone interested in the figures who shaped the region.

Laguna’s Historic Center and Botos Pescadores: A Living Cultural Landscape

The heart of the tour is a four-hour visit to Laguna’s historic center. Strolling through cobbled streets, you’ll see well-preserved colonial architecture and learn about the city’s founding and struggles. The tour includes visits to Fonte da Carioca and Morro da Glória, viewpoints that provide sweeping vistas of the city and the Atlantic.

One of the highlights here is witnessing the Botos Pescadores Sanctuary, where traditional fishing practices continue to this day. Visitors describe the scene as both quaint and inspiring, with dolphins (Botos) often seen swimming alongside boats, demonstrating a centuries-old symbiosis. Travelers have called this sight “exuberant,” emphasizing how authentic and touching it is to see humans and wildlife coexisting peacefully.

Enjoying lunch on the bank of the Canal da Barra, you’ll taste a typical local dish—adding an authentic flavor to your day while soaking in waterside views. The ferry crossing of the Barra Canal** is included, ensuring smooth transit while adding a bit of local flavor.

The Dunes and the Santa Marta Lighthouse

Other notable sights on the tour include the Walker Dunes, which provide an unusual landscape of rolling sand formations. This adds a different dimension to your nature experience, contrasting the lush coastlines with the arid dunes. The dunes are accessible during the visit and give a good sense of the local geography.

Why This Tour Works

The combination of natural scenery, historical depth, and cultural authenticity makes this tour stand out. From the ancient sambaquis in the ground to the historic lighthouse and the lively fishing community, each stop has a story to tell. The tour’s private format ensures that you can ask questions and explore at your own pace, making the experience more intimate and flexible.

Practical Considerations

The tour is well-organized, with air-conditioned transportation and all the logistical details handled. The timing is generally smooth, with a start at 9:00 am, allowing you to see a lot without feeling rushed. Since the tour is full-day, make sure you’re prepared for a full schedule—comfortable shoes and sun protection are advised.

While the price includes a local meal and the ferry crossing, drinks and museum admissions are not included, so budget accordingly. Reviews suggest that the tour offers great value, especially considering the depth of experiences packed into a single day.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who are interested in history, culture, and nature. It’s suited for those who want more than just beaches, as Laguna offers a blend of authentic local life with scenic landscapes. The private nature of the tour makes it a good choice for couples, families, or small groups seeking a personalized day out.

It’s also suitable for those who appreciate learning about the stories and traditions behind the places they visit, as the reviews commend the knowledgeable support and interesting regional stories shared during the tour.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides air-conditioned transportation, including the ferry crossing of the Barra Canal.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and perhaps a hat or sunglasses are recommended since you’ll be outdoors for much of the day.

How long is the tour?
Approximately 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am, with scheduled stops at key sights.

Are meals included?
Yes, a typical local dish is included for lunch, served on the banks of the Canal da Barra.

Can I visit the museums?
Museum visits are not included in the ticket price and last about 30 minutes at the Anita Garibaldi Museum.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour is ideal for those interested in history and nature; children who enjoy outdoor activities and stories will find it engaging.

What are the main highlights?
The Santa Marta Lighthouse, Botos Pescadores sanctuary, the historic center of Laguna, and the ancient sambaquis.

Is this a group or private tour?
It is a private tour, ensuring an exclusive experience tailored to your group.

What’s the best time of year to go?
Good weather is essential; check the local forecast to ensure a pleasant day for outdoor exploration.

Final Thoughts

The Laguna tour offers travelers a well-balanced mix of scenic landscapes, historical sites, and local culture. Its authentic stops, like the fishing community with dolphins and the ancient shell mounds, provide a genuine taste of Santa Catarina’s heritage. For those who appreciate learning as they go—and want to see more than just beaches—this tour delivers.

The price reflects good value given the number of sights and experiences packed into a single day. With friendly guides and a flexible private format, it’s a rewarding way to deepen your understanding of Laguna’s natural and cultural legacy.

If you’re curious about Brazilian history and coastal ecology or simply want a thoughtfully curated day exploring one of Santa Catarina’s most charming regions, this tour is an excellent choice. Just be prepared for a full, active day and plenty of stories that will stick with you long after you leave.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, nature lover, or cultural explorer, the Laguna tour offers a rewarding glimpse into Brazil’s coastal charms—authentic, scenic, and full of stories.