Brazil is home to some of the most jaw-dropping waterfalls the world has ever seen. The sight of the cascades and the sound of strong water flowing from great heights—what is there not to love? Even if you are not an outdoor enthusiast, you will surely want to see these breathtaking waterfalls at least once in your life. These natural wonders provide a nice, relieving escape from your everyday life. It is undoubtedly worth traveling to the country because of these waterfalls and the natural beauty surrounding them. Let’s get to know them further and check out these top 10 waterfalls in Brazil.
1. Caracol Falls
Caracol Falls offers breathtaking vantage points from which you can enjoy not just the waterbody itself but also the forest and mountains that surround it. Formed on Serra Geral volcanic formation’s basalt cliffs, this 130-m (426 ft) waterfall features 2 major cascades. It is famous among tourists because it provides numerous recreational opportunities, including a 30-m (100-ft) observation tower, a cable car, and several nature trails. In fact, the 25-ha (61-ac) Caracol State Park was developed around Caracol Falls.
Caracol Falls
Address: RS- 466, Canela - RS, 95670-000
2. Prumirim Waterfall
Located about 19 km (12 mi) from the city proper, Prumirim Waterfall is a pretty easily accessible sight. As you get here through a short trail, expect to be greeted by the abundant forest surrounding the area. One of the most thrilling activities you can do here is swinging on ropes attached to overhanging trees over spectacular natural whirlpools. If the weather gets to be too much, consider yourself lucky as swimming is also allowed at Prumirim Waterfall—thanks to the clean, green water. Nonetheless, there is also a nearby beach where you can dive and surf.
Prumirim Waterfall
Address: 25535, Rod. Rio-Santos, 25175, Ubatuba - SP, 11680-000
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
3. Itiquira Falls
Itiquira Falls, one of the country’s biggest waterfalls, is the highlight of Itiquira National Park. At 168-m (551-ft) tall, it provides tourists with a nice escape from the daily grind. You can take a dip in the natural swimming pools while enjoying the sound of birds chirping. It is possible to reach the top of Itiquira Falls, but it would take a two-hour walk from Brasilia. Nonetheless, an hour of walk from the capital would get you to the park itself.
Itiquira Falls
Address: Rua Nove, 23 - Vila Santos, Formosa - GO
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4. Cachoeira da Fumaça
With a height of 340 m (1115 ft), Cachoeira da Fumaça is one of Brazil’s tallest falls. It is one of the main attractions in the breathtaking mountain range, Chapada Diamantina. The area is a protected national park, including the surrounding waterfalls like Cachoeira da Fumaca. The streams are clean and safe for drinking. Aside from indulging in the picturesque views, you can also enjoy activities such as mountain biking, rappelling, and swimming. If you are the outdoorsy type, then you should definitely visit this paradise.
Cachoeira da Fumaça
Address: Palmeiras - State of Bahia, 46960-000, Brazil
Opening hours: 7am - 1pm (daily)
5. Salto São Francisco
Salto São Francisco offers various opportunities for you to explore and enjoy the outdoors. The area has complete facilities including bathrooms for a more convenient visit here. The waterfall is relatively high; in fact, it is so high that the water quickly vaporizes. If you and your travel buddies enjoy trekking, Salto São Francisco is a must-visit. It would take about four hours just to reach its base, but definitely worth the trek.
Salto São Francisco
Address: Unnamed Road, Prudentópolis - PR, 84400-000
Opening hours: 8am - 5:30pm (daily)
6. Cachoeira do Tabuleiro
The tallest waterfall in Minas Gerais, Cachoeira do Tabuleiro is a unique, heart-shaped waterfall. A typical tour here includes a 2-km (1.24-mi) walk from the park’s entrance to the base. You are free to swim or splash around in the water when you get there. The area also provides numerous camping spaces, making Cachoeira do Tabuleiro an ideal family destination. It is the perfect place to unplug for a while and spend some quality time with your loved ones.
Cachoeira do Tabuleiro
Address: Estrada Tabuleiro Parque Municipal Natural do Tabuleiro, Conceicao do Mato Dentro, State of Minas Gerais 35860-000 Brazil
7. Yucumã Falls
Yucumã Falls, which has formed in the basaltic Parana Plateau, is famous for its unique orientation. Most waterfalls are perpendicular to the river flow, but this one is parallel to the flow of the Uruguay River. Its name means “the big fall”, which is only fitting for its immense beauty. Another distinct characteristic of Yucumã Falls is that it is only visible when the water is low, so you need to carefully plan your visit.
Yucumã Falls
Address: Derrubadas - State of Rio Grande do Sul, 98528-000
8. Cachoeira Boca da Onca (from USD 222.8)
Home to various trails, Cachoeira Boca da Onca is a perfect destination for those who love exciting outdoor activities or those who simply wish to reconnect with nature. The natural pools offer a lovely space for you to swim as you enjoy the spectacular cascades of the waterfall. There are also restaurants and spa facilities nearby for a more relaxing trip here. When you visit Cachoeira Boca da Onca, you should not miss the picturesque views of Salobra River Canyon.
Bonito: Boca da Onça Waterfalls & Trails Tour
Duration: 5 hour
9. San Isidro Waterfall
San Isidro Waterfall, located within Itatiaia National Park, may not be as massive as many famous waterfalls in Brazil but that does not mean it is not a fascinating sight worth visiting. At 80-m (262-ft) tall, it is suitable for family recreation. Young kids will definitely have a great time here with the area’s kid-friendly facilities. During the summer months, locals and foreign tourists flock to this area to swim in the pristine waters.
San Isidro Waterfall
Address: Estrada do Parque Nacional, Km 8,5, Itatiaia - RJ, 27580-000, Brazil
10. Iguazu Falls (from USD 115.0)
Considered the most powerful and biggest waterfall worldwide, Iguazu Falls is a sight to behold. The sound of the water’s sheer force alone is both relaxing and a reminder of nature’s beauty and fragility. With nearly 300 individual cascades, Iguazu Falls is a fascinating place to be. It is a favorite destination because it comes with numerous walkways that let you get close to the water, unlike many waterfalls. You also have many choices for boat and ferry tours. If you want to have a bird’s-eye view of the falls, consider booking this helicopter ride for three by GetYourGuide.
Helicopter Ride Over the Iguazu Falls - Admission Ticket
Duration: 10 minute
Immerse yourself in some of the world’s best waterfalls
Brazil’s waterfalls are worth including in your bucket list. Aside from the waterfalls, the spectacular nature provides tourists with a breather from the typical local attractions. Take a moment and check out these fantastic waterfalls in Brazil.
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