There are some waterfalls near Brasilia for those who want to connect with nature without having to go too far from the capital. They are ideal for spending a weekend or for a “round trip”.
The “cachús” (as they are affectionately called) are a great way to cool off in Brasilia in the summer, as the capital of Brazil doesn’t have a beach.
What to do around Brasilia?
There are those who think that Brasília is just a political capital, with architectural tourism routes. But the truth is that the city is surrounded by incredible natural beauties, waterfalls and environmental protection areas just a few kilometers from the Center.
In addition to contemplating the beautiful landscapes and bathing in the transparent waters of the waterfalls, more adventurous visitors can go hiking and even abseiling.
What is the closest waterfall to Brasilia?
Cachoeira do Tororó is the closest to the capital, just 35km from Brasília.
The name “Tororó” comes from the Tupi Guarani and means “flash”.
The waterfall of Cachoeira do Tororó is impressive, it is 18 meters high and remains strong even in the dry season. Cachoeira do Tororó does not have a swimming hole, its lake is very shallow, but staying under the waterfall will renew your energy!
The place welcomes all audiences, from those looking for calm to the most adventurous. In addition, the waterfall is pet friendly and many people take their dogs for a walk.
The trail to reach the waterfall is well signposted, has a 2km route and can be done in about 30 minutes. The landscape is beautiful and the walk is worth it.
Where to spend the day near Brasilia?
A great option to spend the day near Brasilia is Chapada Imperial, which is 50km from the capital.
Chapada Imperial is a private property located within an ecological reserve.
It is possible to choose the trail, on the banks of the Dois Irmãos stream, according to your taste and mood:
- The 1 km short trail (ideal for children) has 3 waterfalls to visit;
- The average trail of 3 km that passes by up to 15 waterfalls;
- The longest trail is 4km, but it is possible to enjoy up to 30 waterfalls! It is worth it!
In addition to the waterfalls, Chapada Imperial offers zip line activities, tree climbing and lunch on site.
To enter, it is necessary to purchase a package that already includes lunch, trained guides, the trail, environmental education and internal transport.
Waterfalls near Brasilia
Check out other suggestions for waterfalls near Brasilia:
Blue Well
One of the most famous waterfalls in the region, it enchants visitors with the blue hue of the water.
The waterfall has two cascades, one ends in a shallower well and the other in a deeper well, ideal for bathing.
The Poço Azul waterfall is less than a 50-minute drive from Brasília in an area known as Morada dos Pássaros, in Brazlândia.
Waterfall Gruta Rio de Sal
In this waterfall, the river forms several falls ranging from 6 to 12 meters in height over a distance of about 100 meters. With this, you can enjoy the smaller formations that look like showers and the natural pools with crystalline waters. The cave has several galleries and colors that impress visitors.
Saia Velha Waterfall
This waterfall is known for its natural pools of crystal clear water and its rapids. Its vegetation is all protected and preserved.
The Saia Velha Waterfall is inside the park known as Águas Correntes Park and you have to pay an entrance fee. Visitors can use the entire internal infrastructure of the park, which has restrooms, changing rooms, camping, parking and a restaurant.
Life Waterfall
Cachoeira Vida is close to Poço Azul, in the city of Brazlândia, but its access is considered difficult.
There are natural pools in shades of blue, trails through the vegetation and an open area for camping (an extra fee is required).
There is a 30 meter waterfall known as Cachoeira do Suicídio, formed by the meeting of the Palma River and Córrego Barrão.
Salto de Corumba
The Salto de Corumbá waterfall is over 50 meters high and is close to 7 other waterfalls with smaller waterfalls.
The site is well signposted, allowing you to explore almost the entire area and discover all 7 waterfalls on foot.
Corumbá Waterfall is located about 130 km from the Federal District.
Meia Lua Waterfall
Meia Lua Waterfall is famous for its rapids that form a course of almost 200 meters with several falls that flow into a pool of crystalline waters.
It is located inside the Meia Lua Farm, close to the Serra dos Pirineus and almost 200km from Brasília.
Gancho Waterfall
The Gancho Waterfall has a drop of approximately 40 meters in height. Its area is formed by 3 waterfalls and a natural pool with native vegetation and many stones. Due to the difficulty of swimming, it attracts a smaller number of tourists compared to other waterfalls.
It is located in Sobradinho, almost 39 km from the Federal District.
Queen Waterfall
It is one of the most sought after in the region, famous for the sometimes bluish and sometimes greenish tones of its waters.
In its area there is parking for visitors, lodging, restaurant and trails.
Cachoeira da Rainha is located in the region of Brazlândia, almost 77 km from Brasília.
Bridal Veil Waterfall
The Véu de Noiva Waterfall has deeper natural pools in green and blue tones close to the waterfall, in addition to preserved native forest.
It is one of the best known in the region for being considered ideal for diving. It is also in the region of Brazlândia.
Buriti Waterfall
This waterfall is located in a private preservation area and is very popular because it has few stones and is deeper. Its waters are crystal clear and calmer. It is also possible to see several animals near the water.
The Buriti Waterfall is located approximately 30km from Brasilia.
Alma Gêmeas Waterfall
This waterfall has a fork in the river that forms two identical waterfalls, hence the name Almas Gêmeas.
The Waterfall is located in an environmental protection space and the highlight is the bluish hue of the water. Nearby, there is free parking, a restaurant and several trails.
The waterfall is in the Cupins stream, approximately 60 km from Brasília.
Itiquira Waterfall
The Itiquira Waterfall enchants for its waterfall of almost 170 meters high. There is a safe area reserved for bathing and areas where access is prohibited for tourists.
It is located almost 100 km from the Federal District in an area of environmental preservation. The park area has swimming pools, restaurants, snack bars, chalets and camping.
Veadeiros Plateau
Depending on your availability, it is worth taking a trip to Chapada dos Veadeiros, a region full of waterfalls and natural pools.
The Chapada dos Veadeiros has 3 cities that serve as a base to discover the entire region:
- Alto Paraíso: 230km from Brasilia
- São Jorge: 265 km from Brasilia
- Cavalcante: 308 km from Brasilia
Find out where to stay in Chapada dos Veadeiros here.
Among the numerous options of waterfalls in Chapada dos Veadeiros, we highlight:
Segredo Waterfall: located near the city of Alto Paraíso, its drop of just over 100 meters in height is hidden amid vegetation and stones, hence its name. Its natural beauty and its crystalline waters enchant tourists.
Santa Bárbara Waterfall: located within the Kalunga Engenho II community in the city of Cavalcante, this waterfall received the title of the 2nd most sought after waterfall in all of Latin America. Its waters are crystal clear with shades of turquoise blue.
Wondering where to stay in Chapada dos Veadeiros? Discover the Glamping Hidden Treasure in Chapada dos Veadeiros and book your accommodation in Chapada dos Veadeiros right now.
Tips for visiting the waterfalls near Brasilia
- Find out about the region, not all waterfalls offer parking and restaurants;
- Be careful with the stones and the water level;
- Wear comfortable shoes, preferably sneakers.
- Beware of the current, never jump off a rock or try to cross the rapids.
- Find out beforehand about the fees and the trails to be taken to reach the waterfall.
