Infrastructure for theme parks
Introduction
Cacau Park is a theme park under development by Cacau Show, a Brazilian company in the chocolate sector. With an estimated investment of 2 billion reais, the project will be built on a land of approximately 7 million square meters, located in the city of Itu, São Paulo. The plan includes the creation of various thematic areas dedicated to the universe of chocolate, in addition to an extensive infrastructure that includes hotels, a shopping center, a convention center and residential condominiums. With its opening scheduled for 2027, the park has the potential to establish itself as one of the largest theme parks in Latin America.[1][2].
History
The project is the result of a long-standing dream of Alexandre Costa, founder of Cacau Show, who since 2019 has been seeking to enter the entertainment sector. In that year, rumors arose about his interest in acquiring Beto Carrero World, which did not materialize.[3] During the period of the COVID-19 pandemic, Costa attempted to buy Hopi Hari, then in the process of judicial recovery, but again without success.[4].
Cacau Show's diversification trajectory began to consolidate in 2021, with the acquisition of a hotel in Campos do Jordão, followed in 2022 by the inauguration of the Bendito Cacao Resort & Spa in the same city.[5][6] In February 2024, the company took a significant step by acquiring the Playcenter Group and its indoor park operations, such as Playland and Playcenter Family, which began to bear the name "by Cacau Show".[7][8].
The official announcement of Cacau Park took place on December 2, 2024, during a ceremony held at the Bandeirantes Palace, headquarters of the Government of the State of São Paulo.[1] The event was attended by Governor Tarcísio de Freitas, highlighting the economic and social relevance of the project for the region. Work is scheduled to begin soon, with an opening scheduled for 2027.[9] According to the announcement, the venture will cover a total area of 7 million square meters, including 950 thousand square meters of built area and 400 thousand square meters reserved for the theme park.[10] With all thematic areas, attractions and infrastructure complete for the inauguration, the park will be positioned as one of the largest in Latin America.[10] The park will have more than 100 attractions, highlighting the future largest roller coaster in Latin America, 55 meters high, a maximum speed of 120 km/h reached in five seconds and a 1 km long route. The structure will be manufactured by the Dutch company Vekoma Rides, specialized in the production of roller coasters and equipment for amusement parks.[11][12].