
Cachoeira do Buracão Ibicoara
Experience the awe-inspiring 85-meter Cachoeira do Buracão, a breathtaking waterfall accessed via a dramatic canyon hike and a refreshing swim.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat

Cachoeira do Buracão Ibicoara
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the awe-inspiring 85-meter Cachoeira do Buracão, a breathtaking waterfall accessed via a dramatic canyon hike and a refreshing swim.
"Buracão is definitely one of the most beautiful waterfalls you'll see. And it is by far the most must-go spot in Chapada Diamantina."

🎒 Pack Smart
Bring water, snacks, and wear comfortable shoes. A waterproof bag for your phone is a good idea!
🤿 Safety First
Life vests are mandatory and usually included with your guide. Trust your guide's instructions.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Grand Canyon-like Canyon
Trail leading to the waterfall
Hike through a dramatic, narrow canyon with towering rock walls before reaching the main attraction.

The 85-Meter Drop
Main waterfall
Witness the breathtaking 85-meter waterfall cascading into a refreshing pool, a truly spectacular sight.

The Canyon Swim
Final approach to the waterfall
Take a refreshing swim through a shallow canal to get up close and personal with the powerful waterfall.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Guide is Mandatory
Plan for the Hike & Swim
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎒 Pack Smart
Bring water, snacks, and wear comfortable shoes. A waterproof bag for your phone is a good idea!
🤿 Safety First
Life vests are mandatory and usually included with your guide. Trust your guide's instructions.
📸 Capture the Magic
The canyon views and waterfall are incredibly photogenic. Go early for fewer people in your shots.
💰 Guide Fee
Factor in the guide fee (around R$150 for a group) and entrance fee (R$15) into your budget.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎒 Pack Smart
Bring water, snacks, and wear comfortable shoes. A waterproof bag for your phone is a good idea!
🤿 Safety First
Life vests are mandatory and usually included with your guide. Trust your guide's instructions.
📸 Capture the Magic
The canyon views and waterfall are incredibly photogenic. Go early for fewer people in your shots.
💰 Guide Fee
Factor in the guide fee (around R$150 for a group) and entrance fee (R$15) into your budget.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently rave about Cachoeira do Buracão, calling it a 'must-go' and 'life-changing' experience. The dramatic canyon hike and the spectacular 85-meter waterfall are major highlights, though the mandatory guide and the swim to reach the base are key aspects of the visit. Some find the road access challenging, but the overall consensus is that the effort is overwhelmingly worth it.
"Buracão is definitely one of the most beautiful waterfalls you'll see. And it is by far the most must-go spot in Chapada Diamantina. It is compulsory to hire a local guide to enter the park. Usually, it costs 150 for up to 6 persons (we were two, so we paid 75 reais each). The entrance fee is 15 reais per person. The access isn't as easy as many other spots around but it's really worth it. We drove past Ibicoara, about 24km on an dirt road, then another 4km past the ticket booth, and then we walked for 1 hour in an easy-level track, which is suitable for both elder and children alike. You can reach the bottom part of the waterfal either by rappel (commonly 1 ½ hours wait plus 20 minutes rappelling) or walking (20 minutes). If you choose to walk down the track, you drop your stuff on a rock and swim a small shallow canal to see the waterfall from below. Water is refreshing cold. There's no one selling beverages or whatsoever at the waterfall so it's a good idea to grab yourself something to eat. There's someone selling snacks (many vegan and vegetarian options available) and beverages at the entrance of the track (past the ticket booth, right before you start the walk)."
Adriano Marques
"Life changing event, get up early, hire a guide there on the spot, bring water and a fruit."
Bizulino
"Extremely nice, bade below a 85 meters tall water fall, with ok water temperature and with safety vests included. Not too crowded."
John Magnar Naustbakk
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Ibicoara, you'll drive about 24km on a dirt road, followed by another 4km past the ticket booth. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended, though some visitors manage with regular cars depending on road conditions.
No, the road is primarily a dirt road, which can be bumpy and challenging, especially after rain.
Public transport directly to the waterfall is limited. It's best to arrange transport from Ibicoara, often through your accommodation or a local tour operator. Hiring a car or a private driver is also an option.
The walk from the parking area to the waterfall is approximately 3 kilometers (about 1 hour) each way.
The trail itself is considered easy to moderate, suitable for most fitness levels, including children and the elderly. The main challenge is the swim at the end.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is an entrance fee of R$15 per person. This fee contributes to the maintenance of the area.
Absolutely. Hiring a local, accredited guide is compulsory for visiting Cachoeira do Buracão for safety and park regulations.
The cost for a guide is typically around R$150 for a group of up to 6 people. If you're a smaller group, you might share the cost with others.
The park generally opens in the morning and closes in the late afternoon. It's best to arrive early to allow ample time for the hike and enjoy the falls without rush.
No, visiting without a guide is not permitted. Guides are essential for navigating the trail and ensuring visitor safety.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Wear comfortable hiking shoes or water shoes that can get wet. Bring swimwear as you'll need to swim through a shallow canal to reach the waterfall's base.
Yes, swimming is part of the experience! You'll swim through a short, shallow canal to get to the viewpoint directly in front of the waterfall. Life vests are mandatory and provided.
Basic facilities might be available near the entrance or ticket booth, but expect limited amenities at the waterfall itself. It's wise to use facilities before starting the hike.
Yes, rappelling down the waterfall is an option for adventurous visitors, though it requires booking and can involve waiting times. The walking path is the more common way to access the base.
It can get busy, especially during peak season and holidays. Visiting early in the morning or on weekdays can help you avoid the largest crowds.
🍽️ 🍎 Food & Dining
There are no food vendors directly at the waterfall. However, you can find snacks and beverages sold at the entrance of the trail, past the ticket booth.
It's highly recommended to bring your own water and snacks, such as fruits, sandwiches, or energy bars, as you'll be hiking for a couple of hours.
Some vendors at the trail entrance may offer vegan and vegetarian snacks, but it's best to confirm availability beforehand or pack your own options.
While there aren't designated picnic areas, you can enjoy your packed snacks along the trail or at designated spots before or after your swim. Remember to pack out all your trash.
After your visit, you can find restaurants and local eateries back in the town of Ibicoara, offering regional Bahian cuisine.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning offers softer light and fewer people, ideal for capturing the canyon's grandeur. Midday sun can be harsh, but still dramatic.
A wide-angle lens is great for the canyon. A waterproof camera or a good phone case is essential for the swim portion.
Getting close requires swimming. Consider a drone for aerial shots (check local regulations) or use a tripod for long exposures if conditions allow.
The main viewpoint is after the swim, directly in front of the falls. The canyon itself offers numerous angles for dramatic shots.
Water spray can be an issue, so protecting your lens is key. The lighting in the canyon can also be challenging, with deep shadows and bright spots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Hiring a guide is essential and they can often adapt the pace for families. Pack plenty of snacks and water, as options are limited. The awe-inspiring canyon and the powerful waterfall are sure to captivate young minds, making it a memorable family outing. Consider bringing waterproof bags for electronics and a change of clothes.
💰 Budget Travelers
To save money, form a group to share the guide's cost. Pack your own food and drinks to avoid purchasing at inflated prices. While transport to Ibicoara might be the biggest expense, once there, the waterfall experience itself is budget-friendly.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the scale of the canyon and consider a waterproof camera or phone case for the swim. Early morning light is ideal for softer, more dramatic lighting. Be prepared for mist from the waterfall, so protect your gear.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unforgettable Hike and Canyon
Many visitors describe the canyon walk as a highlight, with its unique geological formations and the sense of anticipation building with every step. The sound of the water grows louder, guiding you towards the grand finale. It's a sensory experience that immerses you in the raw beauty of the Chapada Diamantina.
Remember to wear sturdy, comfortable shoes that can handle getting wet, as the final approach involves wading and swimming through a shallow canal. This unique entry method adds to the adventure and ensures you get the most intimate view of the waterfall.
Experiencing the 85-Meter Cascade
To truly appreciate the waterfall, visitors must swim through a short, refreshing canal. This allows for an up-close perspective, feeling the mist and hearing the roar of the water. Life vests are mandatory for this part of the journey, ensuring safety while you soak in the incredible views.
While rappelling is an option for thrill-seekers, the common experience involves this invigorating swim. The water temperature is cool and refreshing, a welcome sensation after the hike. It's a moment of pure connection with nature that many describe as 'life-changing.'
Essential Guide and Safety Information
Guides are typically hired at the entrance to the park or the trail. The cost is usually around R$150 for a group of up to six people, making it an economical choice if you can join others. The entrance fee to the park is an additional R$15 per person.
Safety is paramount. Life vests are mandatory for the swim portion and are usually provided by the guide or the park. Always follow your guide's instructions, especially regarding the water and any potential hazards. The water can be cold, and currents, though usually mild, should be respected.




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