It’s no exaggeration to say that the Ibiti Project, formerly Reserva / Comuna de Ibitipoca, is among Brazil’s most absorbing and extraordinary experiences and destinations. Covering nearly 7,500 acres of lush grassland, tree-covered hills and scenic waterways, this magnificent reserve in the foothills of the Mantiqueira Mountain Range is a shining light of conservation and so much more.
Considered to be one of Brazil’s best boutique hotels as well as being heavily involved in protecting local culture or promoting reforestation and rewilding, Ibiti Project is a truly special place that balances authenticity and action with first-class comfort and style.
With a big focus on creating wildlife corridors, natural regeneration and the benefits of ethical high-end tourism, we’ve looked at what makes Ibiti Project so unique.
As a sustainability initiative, Ibiti Project is the real deal. The team here are fully committed to everything from the local production of food and engagement with communities to rewilding the surrounding countryside, and safeguarding natural habitats.
Situated in the heart of green Minas Gerais, Ibiti Project is surrounded by abundant wildlife and varied landscapes as well as fertile land able to yield a bounty of fresh produce. These are all sources of inspiration for Ibiti, having begun thier life as a tourist lodge in the 1980’s (though the main farm building has 18th century origins), and since gone on to become one of the most important and enterprising preservation projects in Brazil.
Today, Ibiti Project promotes its ethics and approach as much as the fantastic conservation work being carried out, including reintroducing native species from the Atlantic Forest, not to mention the gourmet gastronomy, wellness experiences and isolated accommodation guests can look forward to while here!
There’s an abundance of activities and experiences to enjoy at Ibiti Project, from indulgent spa treatments to nature trails, hiking to cookery classes, it’s all on your doorstep and always surrounded by the most spectacular scenery too. Ibiti is well set up for families and couples alike, with educational programs, special trails and the Ibiti Camp all catering for youngsters, while adults can enjoy secluded dining spots, private nature trails, and decadent spa treatments.
There can’t be many more memorable settings to enjoy a yoga class than atop a hill overlooking the valley below, surrounded by giant iron sculptures. It’s an incredible sight and perfect spot to find some Zen with a yoga class, while the statues themselves (made from scrap iron and steel) depict huge human forms to represent different cultures, ethnicities, and sentiments from around the world.
Of the many meandering nature trails and walks to enjoy all around the Ibiti Project, two specific water circuits are a must. These scenic routes take you past crystalline streams and pools, waterfalls, even an inland beach! Of course, diverse flora and fauna are never far away while you enjoy these peaceful pathways.
With 300 bird species found across the reserve, Ibiti Project is prime for birdwatching. There’s a range of environments throughout Ibiti too, meaning different sightings and preferred times of day to make the most of each habitat in the company of an expert local guide.
Though Ibiti Project is known and loved for its gentle pace of life and connection with nature, the landscape here is perfect for outdoor adventures too. Active types can enjoy mountain biking, stand-up paddleboarding on Lago Negro or hiking the hills of picturesque Areião in the reserve’s remote north.
With not one but two lakeside beaches, Mogul and Prainha do Engenho, there’s plenty of opportunities for downtime, swimming or sunbathing during lazy afternoons or between excursions at Ibiti Project.
Evenings at Ibiti Project are every bit as much of the experience as your daytime adventures, with an outdoor cinema, stargazing, and nighttime wildlife walks all on offer. For something that’s both romantic and relaxing, you can even enjoy a candlelit dinner in a nearby cave!
Expect locally sourced and inspired fine dining cuisine while staying at Ibiti, with almost everything either grown onsite or nearby, and gastronomic experiences being central to every visit. Whether a picnic lunch beside a scenic waterfall or lagoon, dining on one of the property’s terraces or in the restaurant, great gastronomy is synonymous with Ibiti.
Ibiti has two beautifully-designed spa areas with a heated pool, sauna, gym, and holistic massage/wellness therapies all there to put you at ease during your stay.
Though Ibiti operates its preservation projects year-round, the best time to visit wider Minas Gerais District is the dry season, April to October. During this time of year temperatures are not so intense and the weather is less humid, making outdoor activities and wildlife watching more enjoyable.
If visiting Minas Gerais in wet season then be prepared for humidity and rainfall, with access to certain nature trails and activities potentially difficult too.
It’s hard to believe that such a pristine and peaceful wilderness is only 4 hours from the carnival atmosphere and busy streets of Rio de Janeiro, but it is! Lima Duarte is the closest city to Ibiti (roughly 20km away) and the reserve is reachable by road from Rio (260km), São Paulo (430km), Belo Horizonte (300km) and Tiradentes (200km), so combines well with a wider exploration of Brazil. We would always recommend a private driver and guide if arriving at Ibiti by road.
Zona da Mata Airport in Juiz de Fora receives domestic flights from Azul Linhas Aéreas, Gol and Latam Airlines, while the reserve has a private helipad and runway for small aircraft if required.
Ibiti Project hosts 24 rooms and suites, each coming with its own appeal and unique location. There are three distinct sites – Ibiti Village, Engenho Lodge, and “Remote”, all of which offer something different although still with the same access to guides, nature trails and activities throughout the reserve.
Ibiti Village is an unusual yet incredible setup, with 11 traditionally adorned homesteads housing between 2 and 4 adults each. Situated around a hillside community complete with local restaurant, a farmhouse café and village spa, the location may be remote but all the amenities you’ll need are nearby. The same goes for the accommodation itself, with each house very well-equipped with kitchens and lounge spaces, log fires, en suite bathrooms and more.
A few kilometers down the road from Ibiti Village you’ll find Engenho Lodge, an 18th century farmhouse that’s been wonderfully restored to both emanate its origins and offer comfortable modern living in one. It’s a spectacular setting, building, and history, with the site once being a sugar cane farm and is today home to a spa, herb gardens, and beautiful suites. Engenho Lodge is atmospheric and idyllic, a perfect place to feel connected with this magnificent landscape and the communities who live here.
As the name suggests, the 3 houses making up Ibiti’s Remote accommodation option are all secluded and private, ideal for an even deeper immersion into the wilderness. Remote may not have the spa options and luxe finishes of some of the other living quarters found around Ibiti, yet you’ll still find atmospheric log fires, locally made handicrafts, huge floorplans and unbeatable views around this unique spot.
When packing for your trip to Ibiti Project, some essential packing items include:
Durable footwear for walking and outdoor activities
Sunscreen and sunglasses
Insect repellant
Cash for tips
Loose clothing for daytimes, warm layers for the evening
Swimwear
Whatever your interests or group size, speak to an Atelier travel specialist today and they will craft your dream tailormade tour to Brazil and beyond.
