Mãe Tereza Park: Horseback Riding, Kayaks & Parrillada Lunch

Summary

Ecotourism fun at Mãe Tereza Park with trails, lakes, and parrillada

You’ll paddle across calm lake water, ride horses beneath Atlantic Forest canopy, and share smoky parrillada lunch under old trees at Mãe Tereza Park. Kids splash on slides while adults unwind or try fishing — it’s an easygoing day where you can let your guard down for a while.

What’s the experience like?

We arrived at Mãe Tereza Ecological Park a little after 10, still yawning from the drive but curious about what people call “the green lungs” near Ilhéus. The first thing I noticed was the way the air smelled — like wet earth and something sweet from the trees. Our guide Paulo waved us over by the stables; he had this easy laugh and called every horse by name (I tried to repeat one — “Chico” — and totally messed up the accent). The horses were calm, not bored, and when we set off down a shady trail into the Atlantic Forest, you could hear birds arguing overhead. I wasn’t expecting it to feel so peaceful — just hoofbeats and that leafy hush.

Later, we wandered toward the lake where kids were already shrieking down the water slide. I’m not usually big on kayaks but my friend dared me, so there I was wobbling out onto the water. It felt cool against my hands and there was this weirdly satisfying silence once you paddled away from shore — just frogs somewhere and a breeze moving through reeds. We watched some locals fishing (catch-and-release), and one of them grinned at us like he’d seen this all before. There’s a zip line too if you’re braver than me; I watched one guy land face-first in mud and everyone cheered.

Lunch happened under these huge trees right by the restaurant — honestly, it’s half the reason to come. They serve parrillada in true Uruguayan style with spicy Bahian sides (I still think about that grilled beef with farofa). People lingered over dessert, trading stories or just sitting quiet for a minute. I liked that nobody rushed us out; even Paulo came by to chat about how his grandma used to cook feijão tropeiro. After that we took a slow walk along the river path before heading back toward the gate. Didn’t get to try everything (the little train looked fun for kids), but there’s always next time.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Mãe Tereza Ecological Park

• Horse riding in preserved nature
• Enjoy lake with water slide
• Kayak on the lake
• Try zip lines adventure
• Visit children's sand pool
• Fish and release activity
• Walk trails in Atlantic Forest
• Watch birds in natural habitat
• Walk by river and sea
• Experience mud bath
• Play soccer, basketball, volleyball
• Visit children's play space
• Ride panoramic train tour
• Dine on Uruguayan barbecue

Top questions

Is entry to Mãe Tereza Ecological Park wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the park is wheelchair accessible.

Are infants or small children allowed at Mãe Tereza Park?

Yes, infants and small children can visit and may use a pram or stroller.

What activities are included in the ticket price?

The ticket covers horseback riding, kayaking on the lake, zip line, water slides, trails in Atlantic Forest, sports areas, kids’ space, panoramic train ride, fishing (catch-and-release), and more.

Is there public transportation nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available near Mãe Tereza Ecological Park.

Are service animals permitted inside?

Service animals are allowed in the park.

Is lunch included with entry?

No explicit mention of lunch being included; food is available for purchase at the park restaurant featuring parrillada and Bahian dishes.

Can people of all fitness levels participate?

The park is suitable for all physical fitness levels.

What’s included

Your day covers access to all main activities: horseback riding through forest trails, kayaking or sliding into the lake, zip lining if you’re up for it, sports courts for soccer or basketball fans, kids’ play areas with water slides and sand pools — plus catch-and-release fishing and a panoramic train ride if you feel lazy after lunch. All activities are included in your ticket price; meals can be enjoyed onsite at their open-air restaurant blending Uruguayan barbecue with Bahian flavors.