Rio Parauninha is located in the Serra do Cipó region of Minas Gerais, near the district of Serra do Cipó in the municipality of Santana do Riacho. The river flows through cerrado landscape and is characterized by deep, clear water that remains swimmable even during the dry season. The current is calm, making it accessible to paddlers of all experience levels.

The primary organized paddling route covers approximately 3.5 kilometers and is rated easy. The trip is typically completed in around three hours and includes a river beach along the way. A 100-meter zip line with a water landing is also part of the organized experience offered at Fazenda Parauninha Ecoturismo, which operates guided canoe and motorboat tours on the river. The operation is run by a guide named Junior, reachable at (31) 99289-9976, and is described as family-friendly.

The water is clean and deep, with a calm character well-suited to kayaking and motorboat excursions. The surrounding cerrado vegetation contributes to the river's aesthetic, and the route passes through curves that allow close engagement with the riparian environment. Swimming is a common activity at stops along the route.

The Parauninha is also accessible via trail from the Cachoeira da Caverna area, located roughly 15 kilometers from the center of Serra do Cipó. Following that trail past the waterfall leads to the river, where swimming is a noted draw for hikers as well.

Paddlers planning a trip should contact Fazenda Parauninha Ecoturismo directly for current logistics, scheduling, seasonal water temperature ranges, formal put-in and take-out coordinates, and any paddling restrictions.