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Candiota Coal Mine

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Industrial site
—°7
Candiota Coal Mine (Brazil)

Weather…

The Candiota Mine, located in the far south of the state of Rio Grande do Sul, contains Brazil's largest coal reserves and serves as the center of national coal production. The deposit is characterized by its near-surface location, which enables highly efficient open-pit mining. Since the 1960s, the coal extracted here has been primarily used for electricity generation, with the complex directly linked to the region's thermal power plants, particularly the Presidente Médici facility. Although Brazilian coal possesses a higher ash content, it is of strategic importance for national energy security, especially during periods of low hydroelectric reserves. The city of Candiota is almost entirely economically dependent on this industry. In recent years, significant efforts have been made to mitigate environmental impact through more modern filtration systems and programs for the reclamation of spoil tips. Proven reserves in this basin amount to approximately 1.3 billion tons, guaranteeing supply for many decades.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Nov, Dec.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C232321181412111214171922
Rain mm130121110132121108109118149157114107

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?
Operating in southern Brazil, this vast industrial site holds the country's largest proven coal reserves and acts as a cornerstone for local energy production. It provides crucial fossil fuel specifically extracted to supply regional thermoelectric power plants.
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Visiting
As an active and hazardous heavy industry environment, the mining operational zones are generally closed to casual tourists for obvious safety reasons. Scheduled technical visits might sometimes be arranged for educational institutions or specialized groups in advance.
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Where to view it
The sheer scale of the open-cast mining operations and the nearby power station structures can typically be observed from public roads crossing the surrounding countryside. Travelers should remain in their vehicles and avoid trespassing on private extraction lands.
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Local products
While the direct output is exclusively industrial coal, the nearby towns often reflect a rugged mining culture where local bakeries and markets cater to the workforce. You might find traditional gaucho goods, hearty local meals, and regional agricultural produce.
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Active season
Extraction operations and the associated thermoelectric generation typically continue throughout the entire year to maintain stable energy grids. The region experiences distinct seasons, with spring and autumn offering the most pleasant weather for driving through the area.
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Nearby
Touring the general Candiota area can be naturally combined with exploring the vast pampas landscapes of Rio Grande do Sul or visiting traditional southern Brazilian cattle ranches. The cultural influence of the gaucho lifestyle remains strong in neighboring rural communities.

Geography

Coordinates
-31.56470, -53.67690

Facts

  • Candiota accounts for approximately 38% of Brazil's total coal reserves.
  • The mine is operated by the Companhia Riograndense de Mineração (CRM).
  • The coal seam in Candiota can reach a thickness of up to 6 meters.
  • Extraction is carried out via open-pit mining using massive excavators.
  • The Candiota III thermal power plant is one of the most modern units in the complex.
  • The first systematic explorations of the coal deposits took place in the 19th century.

Explore nearby

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Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Candiota Coal Mine (7)

Mirante do Basico🌿 nature

This viewpoint has a wide vista over the industrial landscape of the Candiota coal mines.

CTG luiz chirivino🎭 culture

This arts centre is dedicated to preserving gaucho traditions and rural arts in Candiota.

CTG candeeiro do pago🎭 culture

CTG Candeeiro do Pago is an important meeting place for traditional dances and music of the gaucho culture.

Centro Cultural de Candiota-Usina Candiota I🎭 culture

Established in 1961, this arts centre is located within the premises of the old Candiota thermal power plant.

parque ambiental Maria Anunciação Gomes de Godoy🌿 nature

This nature reserve protects the local flora and fauna near the mining areas of Candiota.

igreja universal📍 landmark

This Christian church in Candiota is a modern building serving the local evangelical community.

Assembleia de Deus⛪ religious

This Pentecostal church in Candiota is noted for its animated community and regular worship services.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is extracted in Candiota?
Brazil's largest coal mine is located here.
What is the coal used for?
It is mainly used to fuel the local thermal power plant.
Where is Candiota located?
In the south of Rio Grande do Sul, near the border with Uruguay.
What type of coal is found there?
It is predominantly lower quality coal (lignite).
Are there environmental issues?
Open-cast mining and combustion are criticized due to CO2 emissions.
Candiota Coal Mine: where is it located?
Candiota Coal Mine is located in Brazil.
Candiota Coal Mine: what is there to see?
Highlights include Mirante do Basico, CTG luiz chirivino, CTG candeeiro do pago.
Candiota Coal Mine: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Nov, Dec.
Candiota Coal Mine: why is it worth visiting?
The Candiota Mine, located in the far south of the state of Rio Grande do Sul, contains Brazil's largest coal reserves and serves as the center of national coal production.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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History & landmarks

Cathedral of Stone in Canela — Candiota Coal Mine (Brazil)
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Nature

Mirim Lagoon — Candiota Coal Mine (Brazil)
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Lagoa dos Patos — Candiota Coal Mine (Brazil)
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🗺️
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A zoo dedicated exclusively to the rich and diverse Brazilian wildlife.
Snowland Gramado — Candiota Coal Mine (Brazil)
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Posta del Chuy — Candiota Coal Mine (Brazil)
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A historical rest house and bridge structure in the Cerro Largo Department from the mid-19th century.