Três Bacias Penedo
Experience the thrill of natural water slides at Três Bacias, a unique waterfall formation in Penedo, RJ. Explore nearby emerald pools too!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Três Bacias Penedo
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the thrill of natural water slides at Três Bacias, a unique waterfall formation in Penedo, RJ. Explore nearby emerald pools too!
"It's a bit risky to have a crowd at this waterfall, as the rock is slippery wet, meanwhile visitors take turns to get into the water."
🚗 Parking is Free!
Free parking is available near the bus terminal, making it easy to access the falls by car.
🥾 Easy Trails for All
The paths are short and easy, no special shoes needed. Great for families!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Three Basins
The main waterfall area
Natural pools formed by cascading water, perfect for sliding and enjoying a unique water park experience.
Poço das Esmeraldas
Near Três Bacias
A shallow, emerald-hued pool that glows beautifully in the morning light.
Easy Access Trails
Pathways to the waterfalls
Short, easy trails suitable for all ages, often shaded by trees.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Getting There & Around
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking is Free!
Free parking is available near the bus terminal, making it easy to access the falls by car.
🥾 Easy Trails for All
The paths are short and easy, no special shoes needed. Great for families!
☀️ Morning Light Magic
Visit Poço das Esmeraldas in the morning for the best emerald glow.
⚠️ Be Cautious
Slippery rocks and potential flash floods mean caution is advised, especially after rain.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking is Free!
Free parking is available near the bus terminal, making it easy to access the falls by car.
🥾 Easy Trails for All
The paths are short and easy, no special shoes needed. Great for families!
☀️ Morning Light Magic
Visit Poço das Esmeraldas in the morning for the best emerald glow.
⚠️ Be Cautious
Slippery rocks and potential flash floods mean caution is advised, especially after rain.
🗺️ Buggy Tours Recommended
Buggy tours offer a fun way to see multiple waterfalls, including Três Bacias. 
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Três Bacias offers a unique natural water park experience with its sliding rock pools, making it a fun spot for visitors. While the trails are easy and accessible, the area can get crowded, especially on weekends. The nearby Poço das Esmeraldas is praised for its beautiful emerald hue, particularly in the morning. Some visitors find Três Bacias itself less captivating than other nearby falls, but the overall natural beauty and accessibility are highlights.
"Interesting waterfall. The river at this spot flows along sloppy rocks and, at three separate points, the water accumulates to form small basins, resulting in three sliding pools followed by a waterfall. It's a busy zone at peak times: most people will come here because it's fun to go down the river rocks. There is no space to stand or gather a group seated, so, often, people squeeze themselves together to enjoy the free "amusement park". It's a bit risky to have a crowd at this waterfall, as the rock is slippery wet, meanwhile visitors take turns to get into the water, often, bumping on each other due to the lack of room for everyone. The trail to get to this spot is ridiculously easy, no need for sturdy shoes, and it's covered by trees. It is possible to get to this waterfall by car, or on a tour. If you arrive by car, there is an area for parking, nearby, and it is free of charge. The best days to come are sunny ones, I'd avoid rainy days, for sure. It's too unpredictable."
Mariana Azevedo Moraes
"Legal👍"
CARLOS DE OLIVEIRA
"Show"
Ítalo Moura
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Três Bacias Penedo by car, with free parking available nearby. It's also the final stop for buses coming from Itatiaia, making it accessible via public transport. Many visitors opt for buggy tours from Penedo center to explore multiple waterfalls in the area.
Yes, if you have a car that isn't too low to the ground, you can drive to the waterfalls without needing a special tour. The path is generally straightforward.
A popular and adventurous option is to take a buggy tour from Penedo. These tours often include stops at Cachoeira de Deus, Poço das Esmeraldas, and Três Bacias.
The trail to Três Bacias is described as ridiculously easy and short, less than 300 meters, making it accessible for most people.
Yes, Três Bacias is a final stop for buses coming from Itatiaia, making it accessible via public transportation.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, there is no entrance fee for Três Bacias and Poço das Esmeraldas, unless they are located on private property that is part of a specific tour.
No advance booking is typically required for accessing the natural waterfalls like Três Bacias. Entry is usually free.
As a natural attraction, Três Bacias doesn't have set opening hours. It's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
Yes, buggy tours from Penedo center will have a cost, but they offer a convenient way to visit multiple attractions.
Absolutely! If you have your own vehicle, you can drive and access the waterfalls independently.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Três Bacias features a river flowing over slippery rocks, forming three distinct pools that act like natural slides. It's a fun, albeit crowded, spot for enjoying the water.
Yes, you can swim and slide down the rocks in the basins. However, caution is advised due to slippery surfaces and potential crowds.
Poço das Esmeraldas is a shallow pool known for its beautiful emerald color, especially vibrant when sunlight hits it in the morning.
The trails are very easy and short, making them suitable for children. The natural pools can be fun, but adult supervision is crucial due to slippery rocks.
Comfortable clothing and footwear are recommended. Since the rocks can be slippery, water shoes or sandals with good grip are a good idea if you plan to enter the water.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Capture the unique sliding pools of Três Bacias and the vibrant emerald hue of Poço das Esmeraldas. Buggy tour guides often take great photos for you.
The morning light is ideal for capturing the stunning emerald color of Poço das Esmeraldas as the sun's rays reflect on the water.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and regulations before flying a drone in natural parks or protected areas.
Try capturing the flow of water over the rocks at Três Bacias from different perspectives. For Poço das Esmeraldas, a lower angle can emphasize its depth and color.
A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the landscape, while a waterproof phone case is recommended if you plan to get close to the water.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚗 Budget Travelers
🌿 Nature Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Natural Pools of Três Bacias
It's important to note the inherent risks associated with this attraction. The rocks are slippery, and the unpredictable nature of water flow, especially after rain, means visitors should exercise caution. The review specifically advises avoiding rainy days due to the potential for flash floods, or 'cabeça d'água'.
Exploring Beyond Três Bacias: Poço das Esmeraldas
While Três Bacias is characterized by its sliding rocks and potential for lively crowds, Poço das Esmeraldas provides a more picturesque and calming environment. The review suggests that while Três Bacias might be considered 'sem graça' (uninteresting) by some, Poço das Esmeraldas offers a visually captivating experience.
Navigating Penedo's Waterfalls: Tours vs. Self-Drive
+1 This option is great for first-time visitors or those who want a hassle-free experience. Alternatively, if you have a suitable vehicle (not too low to the ground), you can drive yourself to many of these locations. Parking is often available and free near the main access points, such as near the bus terminal for Três Bacias.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit