
Cachoeira das Borboletas
A magical waterfall in Minas Gerais, famous for its cascades and the dozens of blue butterflies that inhabit the area.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Cachoeira das Borboletas
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magical waterfall in Minas Gerais, famous for its cascades and the dozens of blue butterflies that inhabit the area.
"Simply perfect, the waterfalls are beautiful, easily accessible, and the trails are suitable for anyone. "

🚗 Prepare for Dirt Roads
The road can be unpaved; consider a vehicle suitable for dirt tracks.
💰 Entry Fee is Worth It
R$15 entry fee includes parking and access to a well-structured site.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Waterfall Itself
Main cascade
A stunning cascade of approximately 23 meters, forming beautiful pools. It's home to many butterfly species, especially the blue ones.

Butterfly Haven
Surrounding area
Witness dozens of butterflies, particularly the vibrant blue ones, adding a magical touch to the natural beauty.

Wooden Walkways and Pools
Complex area
Enjoy easy access to the waterfall and natural pools via well-maintained wooden walkways, perfect for exploring.
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Planning Your Visit
Accessing Cachoeira das Borboletas
Entry Fees and Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Prepare for Dirt Roads
The road can be unpaved; consider a vehicle suitable for dirt tracks.
💰 Entry Fee is Worth It
R$15 entry fee includes parking and access to a well-structured site.
🦋 Look for Blue Butterflies
The falls are known for being a habitat for various butterfly species, especially blue ones.
🚶♀️ Easy Access Trails
Wooden walkways make exploring the falls and pools accessible for most visitors.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Prepare for Dirt Roads
The road can be unpaved; consider a vehicle suitable for dirt tracks.
💰 Entry Fee is Worth It
R$15 entry fee includes parking and access to a well-structured site.
🦋 Look for Blue Butterflies
The falls are known for being a habitat for various butterfly species, especially blue ones.
🚶♀️ Easy Access Trails
Wooden walkways make exploring the falls and pools accessible for most visitors.
🧭 Consider a Guide
While some trails are easy, a guide can enhance your experience and safety.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Cachoeira das Borboletas for its stunning natural beauty, well-structured facilities, and easy accessibility. The R$15 entry fee is widely considered a great value for the experience. While the dirt road access requires some preparation, the well-maintained walkways and the magical presence of butterflies make it a highly recommended destination.
"Estrada de terra para chegar;
Paga-se R$ 15,00 para entrar;
O local é bem estruturado, com passarelas de madeira até a cachoeira e os lagos;
Possui estacionamento, lojas de artesanato e restaurantes."
D “D”
"Lugar extremamente lindo, pessoas receptivas, ambiente limpo e organizado. Pagamos R$15 por pessoa e vale a pena cada centavo. De todas que visitamos, ela e a véu de noiva estão no meu top 3 de melhores lugares de São Thomé 🩷"
Thayná
"Simplesmente perfeito, as cachoeiras são lindas, de fácil acesso, e as trilhas são acessíveis pra qualquer pessoa. Tudo muito limpo, tem restaurante e lojinhas logo na entrada, é lindo demais, quero voltar assim que possível!"
Julían
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The route to Cachoeira das Borboletas involves an unpaved, dirt road, so be prepared for uneven terrain. Some visitors recommend hiring a local guide for navigation and a richer experience, especially if you're unfamiliar with the area.
While the destination is beautiful, some travelers have reported getting lost on the trails without a guide. It's advisable to use GPS or consider a guided tour for a smoother journey.
Given the dirt road access, a vehicle with higher clearance or four-wheel drive might be beneficial, though many visitors manage with standard cars.
Cachoeira das Borboletas is located approximately 80 km from Belo Horizonte, making it a feasible day trip destination.
Information on direct public transport is limited. It's generally recommended to travel by car or arrange transport through local tour operators.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entry fee is R$15.00 per person, which typically includes parking. Many visitors find this fee to be very reasonable for the experience and the well-maintained facilities.
The R$15.00 entry fee generally covers access to the waterfall area and parking. Some sources mention it includes access to the wooden walkways and pools.
Information on discounts is not widely available. It's best to check directly with the local management or tour operators for any potential offers.
Operating hours are not consistently published online. It's advisable to visit during daylight hours and check with local sources or tour providers for the most current information.
Advance booking is generally not required for individual visitors, as tickets are usually purchased upon arrival. However, for group tours, it's always recommended to confirm arrangements.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main attraction is the beautiful waterfall with its approximately 23-meter drop, forming serene pools. The area is also known for being a habitat for various butterfly species, especially blue ones, and features well-maintained wooden walkways for easy exploration.
Yes, there are trails within the area, though some can be moderately technical, especially the descent to the waterfall itself. Wooden walkways provide easier access to key points.
The well-structured walkways and relatively easy access to some pools make it suitable for families. However, caution is advised near steeper sections or more technical parts of the trails.
The site is well-equipped with restaurants, artisan shops, and parking. Wooden walkways ensure easy navigation around the main attractions.
Yes, the natural pools formed by the waterfall are generally suitable for swimming, offering a refreshing experience amidst nature.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The area around the waterfall, especially where the blue butterflies are often seen, offers stunning photo opportunities. The wooden walkways and viewpoints also provide great angles for capturing the natural beauty.
Late afternoon often provides beautiful lighting for photography, with the golden hour casting a warm glow on the landscape.
Regulations regarding drone usage can vary. It's advisable to check with local authorities or the park management before flying a drone to ensure compliance.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expanse of the waterfall and surrounding landscape. A macro lens can be useful for photographing the butterflies up close.
Be patient and try to photograph them when they are resting on flowers or rocks. Using a faster shutter speed can help freeze their movement if they are in flight.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of the Butterflies
To best appreciate this natural wonder, consider visiting during warmer months when butterfly activity is typically higher. While specific times of day are not mandated, early mornings or late afternoons might offer a more serene experience with fewer crowds, allowing for better observation of the butterflies in their natural habitat. Remember to tread lightly and avoid disturbing them to preserve this unique ecosystem.
Photographers will find ample opportunities to capture the butterflies, but patience is key. Using a macro lens can help get close-up shots, while a telephoto lens might be useful for capturing them from a slight distance without causing disturbance. Respecting their space and environment is paramount to ensuring that Cachoeira das Borboletas remains a haven for these beautiful insects.
Exploring the Vale das Borboletas
Beyond the main waterfall, the Vale das Borboletas offers a range of amenities, including restaurants, artisan shops, and even accommodation options, making it a convenient destination for a full day of exploration or a longer stay. The accessibility of the trails within the valley is frequently highlighted, with many visitors noting that they are suitable for most people, including families. This makes it an ideal spot for those seeking to connect with nature without undertaking strenuous hikes.
While Cachoeira das Borboletas is a highlight, the entire Vale das Borboletas is worth exploring. The R$15.00 entry fee is considered a good value, contributing to the upkeep and preservation of this natural gem. The combination of natural beauty, accessibility, and amenities makes the Vale das Borboletas a must-visit for anyone traveling to São Thomé das Letras.
São Thomé das Letras: A Mystical Destination
Many visitors come to São Thomé das Letras for its natural beauty, including numerous waterfalls like Cachoeira das Borboletas, Cachoeira da Lua, and Cachoeira Véu de Noiva. The surrounding mountains and landscapes offer opportunities for hiking and exploration, with some areas even rumored to be inhabited by mythical creatures like werewolves and elves, adding to the town's mystique.
The town also boasts unique landmarks such as the Pirâmide de Pedra and the Cruzeiro, which are popular spots for visitors. For those looking to immerse themselves in the town's energy, staying in rustic accommodations or experiencing local events like luaus (beach parties) can be part of the adventure. São Thomé das Letras offers a distinct travel experience, blending natural wonders with a palpable sense of magic and spirituality.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit