Trail revamp project begins first phase in March, sponsored by Samarco
The Andorinhas Municipal Natural Park, in Ouro Preto, will begin a trail restructuring process starting in March of this year, aiming to strengthen eco- and sports tourism in the region. The improvements, which will be officially announced next Saturday (02/28), are part of the Andorinhas em Movimento project and mark the start of the initiative’s first phase.
The effort is being carried out in partnership with the City Hall of Ouro Preto, through the Department of the Environment, and with the Gorceix Foundation, the park’s managing organization. Implementation will be led by Instituto Vórtice Sustentável (IVOS), with sponsorship from Samarco.
Located at the headwaters of the Rio das Velhas, Andorinhas Park is one of the most environmentally significant areas in the Iron Quadrangle, home to key springs for Minas Gerais. The initiative underscores the importance of actions that balance environmental preservation, responsible public use, and sustainable development.
First phase
The project’s first phase will last approximately three months and includes sustainable technical interventions along about 10 kilometers of trails. Planned actions include addressing erosion processes, installing drainage systems, reinforcing the soil, building bridges, and installing environmental and sports signage.
The goal is to make the trails safer and more environmentally appropriate, encouraging activities such as mountain biking, trail running, hiking, and climbing, while also helping preserve the springs and local biodiversity.
According to Matheus Contatori Volta, a representative of Instituto Vórtice Sustentável, upgrading the trails goes beyond leisure. “Well-structured trails represent economic infrastructure for the territory. Experiences in different places show that this kind of initiative attracts visitors, increases how long they stay in the city, and boosts the local economy, benefiting sectors such as lodging, food service, retail, and services,” he says.
According to Guilherme Louzada, a representative of Samarco, supporting the project aligns with the company’s commitment to sustainable development in the areas where it operates.
“The project contributes to environmental preservation and strengthens
sustainable tourism, generating economic opportunities and shared value for the local community,” he emphasizes.
Next phases
The full project also calls for training youth and community residents, preparing environmental guides, and holding sports and educational events. At this time, the initial trail infrastructure phase is guaranteed.
Instituto Vórtice Sustentável is continuing to raise funds to make the next phases possible, expanding the initiative’s social, environmental, and economic impact.
A legacy for Ouro Preto
Andorinhas em Movimento is an important step toward establishing Andorinhas Park as a leading destination for nature tourism and outdoor sports, reinforcing Ouro Preto’s potential beyond historical and cultural tourism.
More information and updates about the project can be found on Instituto Vórtice Sustentável’s social media.
Service:
Official announcement of the improvements at the Andorinhas Municipal Park
Date: February 28, Saturday
Time: 2:00 pm
Location: Visitor reception area at the Andorinhas Municipal Park, in Ouro Preto
Credit: Vinícius Terror
Credit: Vinícius Terror
