The Ribeirão do Inferno is a water body located in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, near the city of Diamantina. This watercourse has significant historical importance, as a dam was constructed on it in 1883 to provide energy for local mining operations. The presence of this historical dam structure is a defining feature of the water body. Paddlers should be aware of this infrastructure, which may present a significant hazard requiring portage and could influence water flow and access. The area is situated within a region historically central to Brazil's mining industry, which contributes to its cultural context. The historical industrial use suggests paddlers should inquire locally about potential water quality and any ongoing industrial or municipal activity that might affect the paddling environment. The name "Ribeirão do Inferno," which translates to "Stream of Hell," hints at a potentially rugged character, but the specific nature of the water—whether it is a calm reservoir behind the dam or a flowing stream—is not detailed. Paddlers planning a trip should seek out current, local information regarding safety, legal access, and conditions, especially concerning the historic dam and any related active infrastructure.