The Blue Lake, a hidden treasure in Jaboatão dos Guararapes

Once you land at the International Airport of Recife, technically, you are already off the limits of the Recife. This happens because the Airport is actually located in the city of Jaboatão dos Guararapes. Although you cannot distinguish when one territory starts and another ends, these cities are very different. Recife is the dominant economic capital, while Jaboatão is an excellent industrial partner and a dormitory city. Despite the profile of the big city, Jaboatão has a fantastic natural touristic destination that shouldn't be missed: The Blue Lake.

The majority of people don't know about this place, even though the government has been trying for the last years to put the location on the touristic map. The territory where the blue lake is located is in a private property that couldn't be visited until some years ago. It all changed when the owners of the property realized that there was a huge touristic potential and started to explore that.

The Lake was formed in an old quarry 30 years ago after a drill hit a water table. The water flowed and occupied the entire crater, forming the paradise we know nowadays. Besides its incredible landscape, Blue Lake also offers adventure sports, such as rappel, zip line, snorkeling, and stand up paddle for a very reasonable price. But make sure you schedule your trip in advance -you can check with the radical sports agency "Vertice Esportes de Aventura."

The location is a bit far away from Recife (more or less 30 km), and it is a bit difficult to reach by public transportation. My tip here would be to rent a car or make a deal with an uber or taxi driver. Some touristic agencies already have shuttle buses going from some points in Recife and Jaboatão to the lake, so check online what's the best way for you.

 Also, remember that the Blue Lake is private property, so they charge you 15 reais (something like 4 euros) to get inside. It's a symbolic fee for the site's maintenance. There you can find a bar where you can buy drinks and food, but it is allowed to bring your own supplies from home too. 

Enjoy a day in nature. Don't miss out on visiting this incredible hidden treasure in Jaboatão dos Guararapes!