Dreaming of visiting one of the most marvelous places in Brazil? Here’s a list of what to do in Jalapão!
Jalapão State Park is a conservation unit that holds some of Brazil’s most impressive scenarios. Situated in the state of Tocantins, in the Northeast of the country, this is a must-see destination for nature and adventure lovers.
Between golden dunes, gorgeous waterfalls, and several natural pools, Jalapão Tours offers incredible opportunities to have the experience of a lifetime.
Curious to learn more about this paradise? See below a list of what to do in Jalapão!
Jalapão dunes
In the middle of the Cerrado, the dunes of Jalapão State Park are a golden streak of sandstone rocks that form the Mountain Range of Espírito Santo. From the very top, the view of the orangish sand living in the same space as the green vegetation – with plenty of buriti palm trees – can make anyone fall in love.
In some spots, the sand is cut by water currents and even flowers, which creates a diverse and unique landscape, beautifully illuminated by the sun. Sunset watching in the dunes should be on the travel itinerary for any visitor!
While hiking across the dunes is allowed, climbing through the rock wall is prohibited. To avoid any problems, make sure to follow your guides’ instructions and the state park rules.
Jalapão fervedouros
Always on the top of the lists of what to do in Jalapão, the fervedouros are, without a doubt, the stars of the show.
Similar to natural pools or wells, these springs gush water from the underground and are surrounded by rich vegetation. The water pressure creates a boiling-like effect, which is why the word fervedouro is so fitting – it translates to “boiler”.
The water isn’t hot, but it’s that same underground pressure that prevents sinking. No matter how much you weigh, you’ll always float in a fervedouro!
Jalapão has dozens of fervedouros. See some of them below:
Fervedouro dos Buritis
This heart-shaped fervedouro is one of the most beloved attractions in Jalapão. Surrounded by buriti and banana trees, the color of the water gains a blue or green tone, depending on the sunlight.
At the entrance, there’s a wooden shack for visitors to hide from the sun and a lovely restaurant that serves traditional Brazilian food.
Fervedouro Bela Vista
Considered the most beautiful fervedouro in Jalapão, Bela Vista is over 15 meters deep. The water has a vibrant blue color, making it the perfect place for taking pictures.
With great infrastructure, travelers can enjoy a restaurant, a camping area, and special activities.
Fervedouro do Ceiça
Fervedouro do Ceiça has the most intense pressure in Jalapão, making the water gurgle up strongly. This, of course, makes floating an effortless task.
With a near-perfect round shape, its pale blue tone contrasts quite nicely with the green banana trees, while the water that drains from the fervedouro falls into a natural aquarium outside the main spring.
Fervedouro Buritizinho
Buritizinho is fairly small, but what it lacks in size, it compensates in beauty. Tear-shaped and with transparent blue waters, it looks straight from a painting! Although the pressure is lighter, this fervedouro is deeper when compared to others.
The area also offers access to the Formiga River, where visitors can cool off and swim. Nearby, a restaurant serves fresh food for great prices.
Fervedouro Rio do Sono
Fervedouro Rio do Sono is formed by various springs, which means you can find the ones with the strongest pressure to try to float more effortlessly.
The water is slightly milky and colder, but the weather in Jalapão is so warm you won’t even feel it!
Jalapão waterfalls
The waterfalls are as jaw-dropping as everything else in Jalapão. There are options for every type of traveler – from adventure junkies to families or couples looking for relaxation.
Cachoeira da Velha
Despite its name – velha means “old lady”, in Portuguese –, Cachoeira da Velha is not for the faint-hearted. The largest waterfall in Jalapão State Park is known for the powerful cascade of water that gushes non-stop to a 15-meter fall.
Due to the strong currents, swimming is forbidden, but extreme sports enthusiasts can enjoy some rafting with local guides. Since rafting levels reach a score of 3 and 4, previous experience is desired – though not required.
Cachoeiras Roncadeira and Escorrega Macaco
Roncadeira and Escorrega Macaco waterfalls are usually visited one after the other because of the walkable distance between them.
Pooling into a natural well ideal for swimming, Roncadeira is a 70-meter fall surrounded by rock formations and different species of plants. If you’re an adrenaline junkie, rappelling is the perfect adventure for you!
Escorrega Macaco is 50 meters high, but the water volume is way lower. Since it’s ringed by slippery rocks that can be quite dangerous, this waterfall is for contemplation only.
Cachoeira do Formiga
Head to Cachoeira do Formiga, one of Jalapão’s most treasured waterfalls, if you’re looking for a relaxing time!
The fall isn’t big, but the natural pool that forms under it is absolutely incredible, perfect for swimming, taking pictures or simply contemplating its beauty. The water is so clear and blue, you’ll be able to see the limestone sand bottom without any effort!
Cachoeira do Formiga is situated in a private area, but the entrance fees are friendly even for travelers under strict budgets.
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Cachoeira das Araras
Cachoeira das Araras has two falls, but the natural pool is not too deep and presents ideal conditions for bathing and swimming.
The area is painted green due to the vegetation, the moss covering the rocks, and the water itself.
Cachoeira da Encantada
This stunning waterfall and canyon duo will take your breath away. Prepare to be mesmerized as the cascading water gracefully flows down into the canyon, creating a picturesque scene that seems straight out of a fairy tale. Immerse yourself in the refreshing pool below, surrounded by the majestic rock formations and lush vegetation.
Pedra Furada
If you’re seeking options on what to do in Jalapão, but want to step away from water-related activities just for a moment, visiting Pedra Furada is a must-have experience!
This sandstone rock formation was naturally carved throughout thousands of years. Wind, rainfall, and other natural phenomena created Pedra Furada’s unique shape, with a hole right in the middle.
It might not look like much, but when the afternoon falls, the sun perfectly aligns itself with the opening, creating a bright, golden ring. It’s breathtaking!
Trek through the breathtaking landscapes to reach Pedra Furada, a remarkable rock formation with a natural hole in it. The view from the top is truly spectacular.
Lagoa do Japonês
Lagoa do Japonês is a true oasis amidst the Cerrado. This movie-like place features shockingly crystal-blue waters, dense vegetation, and underground lagoons in ancient caves.
While swimming, snorkeling or boat riding, you’ll spot and even interact with some friendly neighbors, like turtles, birds, and fish.
👉 Do you love animals? Check out the best wildlife tours in Brazil!
Prainha do Rio Novo
One of the main rivers of Tocantins, Rio Novo has dozens of freshwater beaches along its extension, but Prainha do Rio Novo is surely the best and most cherished beach in the region.
Visitors are attracted by Prainha’s white sand and peaceful atmosphere. Even though it’s located only a few meters away from Cachoeira da Velha, the beach waters are calm and inhabited by adorable little fish that can be observed closely with a scuba diving mask.
On the other hand, the river’s current might be a problem in certain areas. To prevent any issues – especially if you’re not confident in your swimming abilities –, make sure to stay near the sand, where the water is shallow.
Local communities (Quilimbola Mumbuca)
The Quilombola Mumbuca community was the first group of people to arrive in Jalapão in the 19th century. The founding members were slaves who fled from the south of the state of Bahia to find a place where they could settle and live freely.
Visiting and engaging with the locals are some of the most authentic ways of diving deep into the heart and soul of Jalapão. By learning their customs, history, and traditions, you’ll be able to help keep the Mumbuca culture alive and learn the very essence of this fascinating place.
Now that you know what to do in Jalapão, shall we book your trip?
Jalapão is one of the most beautiful places in Brazil. Whether you’re an adrenaline-driven person or just want to enjoy your vacation to relax, this destination will surely help you create unforgettable memories.
PlanetaEXO connects you with the best experiences and professionals in the field, offering hassle-free travel planning and curated activities. Contact us and book your trip now!
