Discover Brazil’s Waterfall paradise in the most stunning points of Chapada Diamantina
Hidden in the heart of Bahia, Chapada Diamantina National Park is one of Brazil’s greatest natural treasures, officially designated in 1985. Its flat-topped mountains, deep valleys, caves, and endless hiking trails lead to some of the most spectacular Chapada Diamantina waterfalls in South America.
Have you ever thought about finishing a hike by swimming in a natural pool surrounded by cliffs? Or standing at a viewpoint where more than twenty waterfalls cascade at once? In Chapada Diamantina, these aren’t distant dreams: they’re real experiences waiting for you!
@brunoononogaki
At PlanetaEXO, we believe every journey should create a positive impact. Exploring Chapada with our partners, who are local guides, means discovering waterfalls in a way that respects nature while supporting the communities that live there.
With this in mind, check out some of the best waterfall trails in Chapada Diamantina:
Cachoeirão Waterfall
Cachoeirão is one of Chapada’s most iconic sights. During the rainy season, over 20 streams plunge from around a 280-meter-high cliff, creating a spectacular curtain of water. From above, you’ll see Vale do Pati stretching far into the distance, framed by steep cliffs.
From below, the perspective is completely different: pools of dark water reflect the canyon walls, and the falls crash down in front of you.
How to get to Cachoeirão?
Cachoeirão from above: The upper viewpoint is included in the 3-day Chapada trek. To get there, hikers usually start in Guiné village, entering Vale do Pati through steep mountain trails. The path involves climbs, river crossings, and several hours of trekking before reaching the cliff edge with panoramic views of the valley and the waterfalls
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Cachoeirão from below: The base is part of the 5-day Vale do Pati route. This trail is longer and more demanding, leading deep into the canyon. The hike passes through dense vegetation and rocky terrain before arriving at the pools directly beneath the falls, where you can swim and admire the cascades from below.
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Funil Waterfall
The Funil Waterfalls are hidden gems in Vale do Pati. With a drop of around 70 meters, they tumble into natural pools surrounded by dense greenery, creating a calm retreat in the middle of one of the park’s most stunning valleys. Their quiet beauty makes them a highlight for travelers seeking less crowded spots.
How to get to Funil?
Accessible only on a multi-day trek through Vale do Pati, usually starting from Guiné or Vale do Capão. The trail includes river crossings and forest paths, often combined with stops at Angélica waterfall during 4–6 day guided routes.
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Buracão Waterfall
Buracão is often considered the most adventurous waterfall in Chapada. Its 85-meter drop is hidden inside a narrow canyon. In other words, a real “Buração”, which means a big hole in Portuguese. To reach it, you swim or float through the gorge until you find yourself directly at its base. Few waterfalls let you feel this close to such raw power.
How to get to Buracão?
Near Ibicoara, Buracão is reached by a 3 km guided hike through forest and rocky trails. Even with its remote access, it’s among the most visited falls in Chapada.
@brunoononogaki
Fumaça Waterfall
At 340 meters, Fumaça is the second-highest waterfall in Brazil. Seen from above, the water is so thin it evaporates before touching the ground, creating its “smoke” effect. For those who want a tougher challenge, the hike to the base is demanding but reveals a completely different view.
How to get to Fumaça?
- From above: The trail starts in Vale do Capão and follows a 6 km path across rocky plateaus and viewpoints until reaching the cliff edge. It’s usually done as a half-day hike and is the most popular way to see the waterfall.
- From below: Access begins near Lençóis, following the Ribeirão River and steep forested sections before reaching the base. This strenuous full-day hike is recommended only for well-prepared hikers with a guide.
@estreladalvadiamantina
Mosquito Waterfall
Mosquito is one of the most inviting waterfalls in Chapada Diamantina. The 60-meter cascade drops into a wide pool perfect for swimming. The name comes from the tiny gold particles once found in the riverbed, which shone like “mosquitos” in the sunlight during the mining era.
How to get to Mosquito?
Located about 40 minutes from Lençóis, access is straightforward: a drive along a dirt road followed by a short descent on a marked trail (around 20 minutes). Local guides are recommended, especially during the rainy season when the path can be slippery.
@laneferraz
Samuel Waterfall
Samuel Waterfalls is also one of the tallest in Chapada Diamantina, with a drop of around 100 meters. Hidden in a forested area near Vale do Capão, it offers a spectacular vertical fall surrounded by lush vegetation and rocky walls. Although not as famous as Fumaça or Buracão, Samuel is a rewarding stop for those seeking impressive scenery in a quieter, less-visited spot.
How to get to Samuel?
Starting from Vale do Capão, the trail to Samuel is short and not demanding, usually taking less than an hour. The path follows forested stretches and small streams until reaching the waterfall. Because of its proximity to the village, it’s often combined with other short hikes in the area.
@pablofotografias
Fumacinha Waterfall
Fumacinha, in turn, is one of Chapada’s most remote and dramatic waterfalls, with a vertical drop of around 100 meters inside a narrow canyon. The setting is wild and imposing: towering rock walls, a dark grotto at the base, and the constant roar of water make it a truly unforgettable sight for those who endure the long journey.
How to get to Fumacinha?
Near Ibicoara, Fumacinha is reached by a challenging 18 km round-trip hike with river crossings, boulders, and forest sections. Because of the difficulty, it’s best done with a local guide and often included in the 6-day ultimate Chapada trek of PlanetaEXO.
@alicesantos.nutri
Herculano Waterfall
Herculano Waterfall is far from the main tourist routes, making it a true off-the-beaten-path destination. With rugged cliffs, 120 meters and a large pool at its base, it’s the kind of place where you can enjoy the wilderness in peace.
How to get to Herculano?
Located near Andaraí, Herculano requires a guided hike through little-marked forest trails and river crossings. The route isn’t signposted, which is why going with a local guide is essential. The trek is moderate in length but remote, adding to the feeling of isolation and exclusivity.
@poliana_barbosa_guia
Encantada Waterfall
One of the most spectacular waterfalls in Chapada Diamantina, with a drop of around 230 meters, making it among the tallest in Brazil. The water plunges into a deep canyon, often creating rainbows when the sunlight hits the mist.
Its remote location means it’s far less visited than other waterfalls, but for those who make the journey, the view is absolutely breathtaking, especially during the rainy season, when the flow is strongest.
How to get to Encantada?
Located near Itaetê, access requires a guided hike through forested trails and rocky terrain. The trek can take several hours and is considered moderately difficult, but the reward is one of the most impressive views in the entire Chapada.
@anderson_liiima_bunenen_
Sossego Waterfall
True to its name, Sossego (“tranquility”) is a peaceful 20-meter waterfall that forms a natural pool surrounded by boulders. The trail itself is part of the adventure, passing smaller cascades and rocky sections before reaching the final fall. Many hikers also stop at Ribeirão do Meio, known for its natural waterslide, on the way back. It’s one of the best waterfall trails!
How to get to Sossego?
From Lençóis, it’s a 7 km hike (around 3 hours each way) along the Ribeirão River, with stretches over rocks and stream crossings. A local guide is recommended, and many combine the hike with a stop at Ribeirão do Meio on the return.
@lilianflorio
Mixila Waterfall
Mixila is a waterfall for true explorers, with a dramatic drop of about 80 meters inside a narrow canyon. Reaching it is an adventure in itself, involving stretches of river trekking and, in some cases, light rappelling. Its remote location and low visitation keep the atmosphere wild and pristine.
How to get to Mixila?
From Lençóis, Mixila is reached on a full-day or two-day guided hike, following the Capivari River. The route includes smaller falls such as Capivari and Poção along the way. Because of the technical sections and river crossings, going with a guide is strongly recommended.
@taynaguiasaothome
Swimming in the Waterfalls
If you’re wondering whether you can swim in the waterfalls, the answer is a definite yes! But not in every case. Check out this list to see which waterfalls you can swim in:
- Buracão: swim or float through the canyon and reach the pool at its base.
- Mosquito: a large natural pool ideal for a refreshing dip.
- Sossego: a calm basin surrounded by rocks, great for a break.
- Mixila: deep pools along the canyon for adventurous swimmers.
- Cachoeirão (from below): pools at the base of the canyon, though access requires a longer trek.
- Fumacinha: natural pool inside the canyon, though the water is usually very cold.
- Herculano: large, deep pool at the base, perfect for a swim.
- Samuel: a pool formed by its tall drop, suitable for swimming after the hike.
- Funil: beautiful cascades with a large pool, ideal for swimming.
Better for admiring from a distance:
- Cachoeirão (from above): panoramic viewpoint only.
- Fumaça (from above): famous for its “smoke effect,” no pool access.
- Encantada: impressive vertical drop into a canyon, not accessible for swimming.
Always be cautious with slippery rocks and strong currents, and follow guide recommendations for safe swimming!
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Why is the water dark?
The dark, tea-colored waters of Chapada come from tannins released by leaves and organic matter along the rivers. It’s a natural feature, not pollution, and the water is safe for swimming.
Depending on the depth and light, it can appear golden, amber, or almost black, giving the pools a mysterious beauty.
The sandy rock formations in the region act as natural filters, keeping the water clear of impurities. Many locals even drink directly from streams along the trails!
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Is it cold? When is the best time to visit?
Because the rivers are mountain-fed, most waterfalls stay cold year-round. After a long hike in the sun, this refreshing dip becomes part of the adventure.
- Dry Season (May–September): Easier trails, but some waterfalls lose volume.
- Rainy Season (November–March): Waterfalls are powerful and photogenic, but trails can be slippery.
- Post-Dry (April–May & September–October): Often the best balance: good water flow and accessible hikes.
👉 Get to know more about the best time to visit Chapada Diamantina.
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How to get to Chapada Diamantina
The main gateway is Lençóis, with flights from Salvador (easily accessible by international flights) and regular bus connections. Other towns like Vale do Capão, Andaraí, Ibicoara, and Mucugê also serve as bases to explore specific waterfalls.
From these towns, local guides lead you to the trailheads and ensure safe, immersive experiences.
👉 Planning your trip? Don’t miss our complete guide: How to get to Chapada Diamantina.
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Traveling with PlanetaEXO in the Chapada Diamantina Waterfalls
At PlanetaEXO, our adventures go beyond sightseeing. By traveling with us, you support responsible tourism that protects nature and empowers local communities. Our guides not only know the best waterfall trails but also share stories, traditions, and knowledge that bring Chapada Diamantina National Park to life.
Whether you choose a 3-day trek, a 5-day Vale do Pati hike, or even a 7-day journey, your trip will be meaningful, adventurous, and unforgettable.
👉 Ready to discover Chapada Diamantina’s waterfalls with us? Check out our tours and start planning your adventure today.
