Taquaral Lake is the centerpiece attraction of Portugal Park and popular among locals and tourists alike. Visit the lake to stroll along its shores, get active at exercise stations and watch musical performances. Find respite from the summer heat and enjoy a moment of serenity in the picturesque setting of Taquaral Lake.
A 1.7-mile (2.8-kilometer) loop paved track travels around the waterfront. Join the joggers and walkers that come throughout the day to stretch their legs and keep fit. There are free-to-use exercise equipment stations. Spot the ducks, swans and capybaras that bask on the lakeshore and cool off in the water.
Live music events, dance shows and theatrical performances take place at the Concha Acústica do Taquaral. Also called the Beethoven Auditorium, this 2,000-capacity outdoor arena is nestled amid an area of woodland on the northern banks. In the eastern corner is the Caravela Anunciação, which is a replica of the former ship of the explorer Pedro Álvares Cabral. From its deck are superb views of the lake and the Chafariz Lagoa do Taquaral fountain.
An alternative and relaxing way to explore the lake is to rent a paddleboat at the boat dock. You can choose between a swan-shaped boat and a miniature sailboat. Another fun thing to do is ride the Bondinho do Lagoa tram around the lake’s perimeter. Trams such as this one operated in Campinas until 1968.
Located in Portugal Park, the lake is just a 20-minute drive from the city center of Campinas. Parking is available at the northern and western entrances to the park. It’s possible to get here by catching a public bus from the city center.
Taquaral Lake and the park are open to the public daily. Also within the park is the Planetarium and Dynamic Museum of Science. Food stands serve drinks, snacks and ice creams at the park’s main entrance, which is situated on the northeast side.
