Carla Fontes

## Overview Carla Fontes is a public drinking spring located in the municipality of Mangaratiba, in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Nestled along the lush, tropical coastline known as the Costa Verde (Green Coast), this natural spring sits in a region celebrated for its abundant freshwater sources fed by the Serra do Mar mountain range and the surrounding Atlantic Forest. Mangaratiba — whose name derives from the Tupi indigenous word meaning "banana grove" — has long been associated with natural water resources, and springs like Carla Fontes are part of a tradition of public *bicas* (spouts) that local communities have relied on for generations. The spring is situated at approximately -22.9445° S, -44.0614° W, placing it within the greater Mangaratiba area, a gateway town to the stunning islands of Ilha Grande and other coastal destinations along the RJ-101 highway. Visitors passing through the region may find this spring a convenient and refreshing stop. The water has historically been used as a drinking water source by locals, though as with any natural spring, water quality can vary with weather and seasonal conditions. ## Directions 1. From the center of Mangaratiba, head toward the coastal road (RJ-101 / Rio–Santos highway). 2. Use the GPS coordinates **-22.9445, -44.0614** to navigate directly to the spring's location, as it may not appear on all standard maps. 3. Look for a public spout or *bica* — these are typically marked by a simple pipe or stone structure where water flows freely. 4. Parking may be limited to roadside spots, so plan accordingly. *Note: These directions are based on GPS coordinates and general knowledge of the area. It is recommended to confirm the exact access point with locals upon arrival.* ## What to Expect Carla Fontes is a public drinking spring, meaning it is freely accessible and likely features a spout or pipe where water flows continuously from a natural underground source. Springs in the Mangaratiba region are typically fed by rainwater filtered through the granitic and gneissic rock formations of the Serra do Mar, which can give the water a clean, mineral-light character. The surrounding area is characterized by dense Atlantic Forest vegetation, warm tropical temperatures, and high humidity — especially during the rainy season (December through March), when water flow tends to be strongest. During drier months (June through August), flow may decrease. Mangaratiba itself is a small, welcoming town with basic amenities including restaurants, shops, and fuel stations. The spring makes for a worthwhile stop for travelers heading to or from Ilha Grande, or anyone exploring the Costa Verde by car. Visitors have historically used springs like this one for drinking water, but conditions can change — observing the water's clarity and the state of the surrounding area upon arrival is always a good practice.