Salto do Cabrito
A stunning 40-meter waterfall cascading into a clear pool, surrounded by lush Azorean nature. Perfect for a refreshing dip and scenic photos.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour light, fewer crowds
Salto do Cabrito
Best Time
Golden hour light, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning 40-meter waterfall cascading into a clear pool, surrounded by lush Azorean nature. Perfect for a refreshing dip and scenic photos.
"The serenity of this place is unreal, and the water felt very cold at first but once you get moving it feels great."
🚗 Parking Access
Free parking is available near the generating building. Avoid the road marked 'no entry' for vehicles.
🥾 Steep Trail Ahead
The path is steep and paved, requiring a moderate level of fitness. Allow 45 mins round trip.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Salto do Cabrito Waterfall
Near Ribeira Grande
A stunning 40-meter cascade plunging into a crystal-clear pool, surrounded by lush greenery.
Refreshing Pool Dip
Base of the waterfall
Take a dip in the cool, clear waters at the base of the falls for a refreshing experience.
Forest Trail Detour
Path to the left towards the river
A short, scenic detour into the forest leading down to the river, offering a different perspective.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Steep Descent, Rewarding Views
Best Time for Serenity
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Access
Free parking is available near the generating building. Avoid the road marked 'no entry' for vehicles.
🥾 Steep Trail Ahead
The path is steep and paved, requiring a moderate level of fitness. Allow 45 mins round trip.
💧 Bring Towels!
The water is cool but invigorating. You'll want a towel for drying off after a swim.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Great spot for photography, especially with drone shots capturing the scale.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Access
Free parking is available near the generating building. Avoid the road marked 'no entry' for vehicles.
🥾 Steep Trail Ahead
The path is steep and paved, requiring a moderate level of fitness. Allow 45 mins round trip.
💧 Bring Towels!
The water is cool but invigorating. You'll want a towel for drying off after a swim.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Great spot for photography, especially with drone shots capturing the scale.
🌿 Forest Path
Don't miss the small path on the left leading into the forest for a lovely detour.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Salto do Cabrito to be a beautiful natural spot with a refreshing pool, though the hike down is steep. While not the most spectacular waterfall, its serene atmosphere and the opportunity for a dip make it a worthwhile visit, especially in the late afternoon. Some note the trail's incline can be challenging.
"There is only one waterfall in this area and it is this one! There’s a free parking area just off the main road. While you might see a road continuing all the way to the waterfall, it’s marked with a no-entry sign for vehicles. The path is wide and paved with concrete, but quite steep — the round trip takes about 45 minutes. The waterfall itself is nice, though not particularly breathtaking. However, you can dip your feet in the river to cool down, which adds to the experience. Along the way, there’s a small path on the left leading into the forest and down to the river — worth a short detour."
Petr Weiss
"Nice waterfall with a small pool where you can swim. It has an easy access from the parking lots which is located up the hill next to the generating building (1st photo). There is parking lots down but is used for the water company vehicles. Park your car and go behind the white building you will see the waterfall sign (2nd photo). The trail is little hard for orderly people and it is so sloppy. Once you reach the parking slot down there is a small path going to a white generating room, the waterfall is in behind it. It takes me around 30 minutes going and back to my car."
Majed Alashari
"We arrived to this beautiful waterfall late afternoon after walking trails all day. It was easy to find a parking spot, so we grabbed two towels and a bottle of water and started to walk the short trail down to the waterfalls. The walk is not far but vety steep but when you arrive at the fall it's all forgotten. The serenity of this place is unreal. The water felt very cold at first but once you get moving and swim a little bit it feels great. Surprisingly, the water felt warmer when you stand under the fall. Many people take their time and lay down on the warm rocks to dry and catch some rays before they take the steep climb back. We recommend it. As for older people or handicap, you can drive down to the falls, it's a very narrow road and you can't park so you'll have to drop off and pick up later."
dan safra
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Salto do Cabrito is located on São Miguel Island in the Azores, near Ribeira Grande. There's a free parking area just off the main road, near a generating building. From there, a paved but steep path leads down to the waterfall.
Yes, there is a free parking area located up the hill next to the generating building. Be aware that the road continuing all the way to the waterfall is marked with a no-entry sign for vehicles.
While there's a narrow road that goes down to the falls, it's not for parking. It's best used for drop-offs and pick-ups for those who may have difficulty with the steep climb back up.
The most common way is by car, as it offers flexibility. From the parking area, it's a steep but manageable walk down to the waterfall.
Public transport options to reach the immediate vicinity of Salto do Cabrito are limited. Renting a car or joining a guided tour is generally recommended for easier access.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Salto do Cabrito is a natural attraction and does not require an entrance fee. Access to the waterfall and its surrounding trails is free.
As a natural site, Salto do Cabrito does not have set opening hours. It is accessible at any time, though visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and enjoyment.
There is no admission fee to visit Salto do Cabrito. Enjoy the natural beauty of this Azorean waterfall without any cost.
Yes, Salto do Cabrito can be visited year-round. However, weather conditions in the Azores can vary, so it's advisable to check the forecast before your visit.
The main trail is generally open, but it's important to note that there was a temporary closure due to a landslide. Always check local advisories before your visit.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike involves a steep, paved path that takes about 45 minutes round trip. It's a good workout, but the views are rewarding.
Yes, you can swim in the small pool at the base of the waterfall. The water is cool but can feel warmer under the falls.
Late afternoon is recommended for beautiful lighting and potentially fewer crowds. Visiting during daylight hours is essential for safety on the steep trail.
Yes, you can follow a trail to the Central Hidroelétrica da Fajã do Redondo or even continue to Barragem da Fajã do Redondo for a longer adventure.
Absolutely! It's a great spot for photography, with opportunities for both ground-level shots and impressive drone footage.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly at Salto do Cabrito. You'll find restaurants and cafes in the nearby town of Ribeira Grande.
While there are no designated picnic areas, you can bring your own food and enjoy it in the surrounding natural environment. Remember to pack out all your trash.
Ribeira Grande offers a variety of local Azorean cuisine, including fresh seafood, traditional stews, and local pastries.
It's a good idea to bring water and perhaps a snack, especially if you plan to hike the longer trails or swim, as there are no facilities at the waterfall itself.
No, there are no cafes or food vendors directly at the Salto do Cabrito site. The nearest amenities are in Ribeira Grande.
📸 📸 Photography
The base of the waterfall offers stunning views, and the detour into the forest provides unique perspectives. Drone photography is also highly recommended for capturing the scale.
Yes, drone footage is very popular and captures the impressive scale of the waterfall and its surroundings. Ensure you are aware of any local drone regulations.
Late afternoon, during the golden hour, provides beautiful lighting for photography. Midday sun can be harsh, but the mist from the falls can create interesting effects.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the entire waterfall. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections in the water. Consider a waterproof bag for your gear.
Look for the contrast between the lush green vegetation and the white water. The pool at the base also offers opportunities for reflections.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
📸 Photographers and Drone Enthusiasts
Drone pilots will find this spot particularly appealing, as aerial shots can capture the waterfall's grandeur and its setting within the Azorean terrain. The late afternoon light is ideal for capturing the best shots. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Hike to Salto do Cabrito
Beyond the main path, a small, worthwhile detour can be made on the left, leading into the forest and down to the river. This offers a different perspective and a chance to immerse yourself further in the Azorean nature.
Experiencing the Waterfall and Pool
While the water is described as cool, many visitors find it refreshing, especially after the hike down. The waterfall itself, while not always described as 'breathtaking,' is consistently praised for its natural beauty and the tranquil ambiance it provides.
It's a place where you can truly appreciate the raw, untamed nature of the Azores. Photography and Drone Opportunities
The pool at the base can create beautiful reflections, adding another layer to your shots. For those interested in aerial views, drone photography is highly recommended. Drones can effectively showcase the impressive scale of the waterfall and its integration within the Azorean landscape. Remember to be mindful of any local regulations regarding drone usage. Visiting in the late afternoon, particularly during the golden hour, can provide stunning lighting conditions for your photographs.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit