Pego do Inferno Algarve
1 / 10

Pego do Inferno Algarve

3.8
·214 reviews·Santo Estevão, Portugal

Discover Pego do Inferno, a stunning hidden waterfall in the Algarve with an emerald pool, perfect for swimming and adventure.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Autumn mornings

Ideal water flow & fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Pego do Inferno Algarve

Pego do Inferno Algarve

Best Time

Spring & Autumn mornings

Ideal water flow & fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Pego do Inferno, a stunning hidden waterfall in the Algarve with an emerald pool, perfect for swimming and adventure.

3.8
(214 reviews)

"Absolutely beautiful right now, the Waterfall & small Lake are picturesque."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes

The trail can be steep and slippery. Good grip is essential for a safe and enjoyable hike.

💧 Visit After Rain

For the best waterfall experience, aim to visit after recent rainfall for maximum water flow.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cascata do Pego do Inferno

Cascata do Pego do Inferno

Tavira

A stunning hidden waterfall with emerald waters, surrounded by lush nature. A true Algarve gem.

Natural Swimming Pool

Natural Swimming Pool

Base of the waterfall

Dive into the cool, clear emerald pool beneath the falls. Perfect for a refreshing dip on a warm day.

Cliff Jumping Spot

Cliff Jumping Spot

Above the pool

For the adventurous, brave the heights and jump from the surrounding cliffs into the inviting waters below.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Access & Trail Conditions

The path to Pego do Inferno can be tricky, with some steep sections. Wear good gripping shoes! It's about a 10-minute walk from the parking area, but can be confusing if not signposted. Some find it challenging with kids.

Best Time for Water Flow

While beautiful year-round, the waterfall's flow is best after rain. In peak summer, it can be dry, though the pool remains inviting. Visiting earlier in the day is recommended for a better experience.

Best Times

When
Spring & Autumn mornings
Why
Ideal water flow & fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
After rainfall
Why
Waterfall at its most powerful
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer weekdays
Why
Escape the heat, but can be dry
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The most famous waterfall in the Algarve: Cascata do Pego do Inferno in Tavira. ☀️🏖️ . . . . . #algarve #valedolobo #portugal #quintadolago #beachclub #summervibes #Summer #dayoutinthealgarve #beach #algarvesummer #portugal #travel #visitalgarve #visitportugal #beachclub #lisbon #vilamoura #lisboa #visitalgarve #visitportugal #cascais #verão2025 #verão #praia #albufeira #benagilbeach #benagilcave ...
portugalbeachlife
1.3K likes • 40K views

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes

The trail can be steep and slippery. Good grip is essential for a safe and enjoyable hike. Reddit

💧 Visit After Rain

For the best waterfall experience, aim to visit after recent rainfall for maximum water flow. Reddit

📍Cascata do Pego do Inferno, #Algarve
goncalogcorreia
657 likes • 21.8K views
💦 Cascata do Pego do Inferno – Tavira, Algarve Un rincón escondido entre colinas verdes y caminos de tierra, donde el agua cae en una poza de color esmeralda rodeada de naturaleza salvaje. 🌿 Dicen que su nombre viene de una antigua leyenda, pero basta verla para entender que aquí no hay nada de infernal… solo calma y belleza. ✨ 📍 A pocos kilómetros de Tavira, este paraíso natural es perfecto para...
cientounplanes
29 likes • 1.1K views

🚗 Free Parking Available

There's free parking nearby, but the trail might not be clearly signposted. Reddit

⏰ Go Early

Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially if you plan a picnic or want to avoid the biggest crowds. Instagram

💦 Já conhecias a cascata mais bonita do Algarve? Pouca gente sabe, mas o nome Pego do Inferno vem de uma antiga lenda local: há muitos anos, uma carruagem caiu nas águas profundas e nunca mais foi encontrada. Diz-se que o poço não tinha fundo e que as vítimas tinham caído no “Inferno”… e assim nasceu o nome misterioso. 🌿 📍 Fica a cerca de 10 minutos de Tavira. 🚶‍♂️ Do estacionamento até à cascat...
dofadoaosamba
492 likes • 21.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes

The trail can be steep and slippery. Good grip is essential for a safe and enjoyable hike. Reddit

💧 Visit After Rain

For the best waterfall experience, aim to visit after recent rainfall for maximum water flow. Reddit

🚗 Free Parking Available

There's free parking nearby, but the trail might not be clearly signposted. Reddit

⏰ Go Early

Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially if you plan a picnic or want to avoid the biggest crowds. Instagram

🏊‍♂️ Brave the Jump

If you're an adrenaline junkie, try jumping from the cliffs into the refreshing pool below! Instagram

What Travellers Say

3.8
(214 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Pego do Inferno is widely praised for its breathtaking natural beauty and magical atmosphere, often described as a hidden gem. Visitors love the stunning waterfall and the inviting emerald pool, with some enjoying the thrill of cliff jumping. However, some find the trail challenging and note that the area can be overgrown or less impressive if the waterfall is dry in peak summer.

"Like this place is breathtaking and magical, also love the fact It is kinda secret. However, the fact the locals are going there to bath not only themselves, but also their dogs and the smell there is kinda weird is making this place great to look, but would not recommend to swim there, but if you dont mind that aspect than the jump from the rope or from cliff feels surreal. Amazing place"

Marcel Daňko

"There is free parking on the road and a 0.5km trail to reach the lake. The trail is not signposted, so it can be a little confusing to follow. It’s also a bit steep in a couple of short sections.
The waterfall was dry, but the pool looked very attractive for swimming.
Sadly, the edges of the lake are badly overgrown with bamboo plants and there is not much room to sit. Would be great if the bamboo could all be cut back and removed."

Paul Brennan

"I suggest everyone who complain about the trash here, to pick some up on your way back (we had a bag with us) and if you promise to do that, I will send you the gpx trail of the easy access (many people go the wrong way!) 😉😉"

Ana Kovač

What People Like

Breathtaking natural beauty
Magical emerald pool
Thrilling cliff jumping

What People Dislike

Challenging trail
Overgrown areas
Waterfall can be dry

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Pego do Inferno is located about 20 minutes from Tavira. You can drive to the nearby parking area and then follow a dirt path for approximately 10 minutes to reach the waterfall. InstagramReddit

Yes, there is free parking available on the road near the trailhead. Reddit

The trail is about 10 minutes long but can be narrow, steep in sections, and sometimes confusing as it's not always well-signposted. Sticking to the right when in doubt can help. InstagramReddit

Public transport options are limited for reaching Pego do Inferno directly. Driving is the most convenient method. TikTok

The trail can be challenging for very young children due to steep and narrow sections. Parents should exercise caution. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Pego do Inferno is a natural attraction and does not require an entrance fee. Access is free. Reddit

As a natural site, Pego do Inferno does not have set opening hours. It is accessible during daylight hours. TikTok

Yes, the pool at the base of the waterfall is suitable for swimming, offering a refreshing experience. InstagramReddit

There are no formal facilities like restrooms or changing rooms at Pego do Inferno. It's a natural spot. Instagram

Yes, visitors often bring food for picnics. Remember to take all your trash with you to keep the area clean. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography & Experience

Morning light often provides beautiful, soft illumination for photography. Golden hour in the late afternoon can also be stunning. TikTok

The name 'Pego do Inferno' (Hell's Pool) comes from an old legend about a carriage falling into the deep, bottomless pool and never being found. Instagram+1

It can get crowded, especially during peak summer months and weekends. Visiting on a weekday or during the shoulder seasons (spring/autumn) is recommended for a quieter experience. Instagram

Bring swimwear, a towel, water shoes, snacks, and plenty of water. A waterproof bag for your phone is also a good idea. Instagram

Pego do Inferno is part of a group of three waterfalls formed in the Asseca stream. While Pego do Inferno is the most prominent, the others are also part of the natural beauty. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Pego do Inferno can be a fun outing for families, but requires careful consideration. The 10-minute walk from the parking area is manageable, but the trail can be steep and narrow in parts, making it challenging for very young children or strollers. InstagramReddit It's highly recommended to wear sturdy shoes with good grip for everyone. Reddit Visiting after rain ensures the waterfall is at its most impressive, but the pool is still inviting for a dip even in drier months. Reddit Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy the natural surroundings, but be prepared to pack out all your trash. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

Pego do Inferno is an excellent choice for budget travelers as it's completely free to visit! Reddit There's no entrance fee, and parking is also complimentary. Reddit You'll need to bring your own food and drinks, making it an ideal spot for a picnic lunch. The main costs would be transportation to the location. This natural wonder offers a significant return on investment for those looking for stunning scenery without the expense. Instagram

❤️ Couples & Nature Lovers

For couples seeking a romantic and picturesque escape, Pego do Inferno offers a magical setting. The secluded waterfall and emerald pool create a serene atmosphere, perfect for a peaceful retreat. Instagram+1 Visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or autumn) or on a weekday can provide a more intimate experience away from larger crowds. Reddit Pack a picnic, enjoy a refreshing swim, and soak in the natural beauty – it’s a truly enchanting spot to connect with nature and each other. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legend of Pego do Inferno

The name 'Pego do Inferno' translates to 'Hell's Pool,' a moniker steeped in local folklore. One popular legend speaks of an ancient carriage that plunged into the deep, seemingly bottomless waters and was never recovered. Victims were said to have fallen into 'Hell,' giving the cascade its mysterious and evocative name. Instagram+1 This intriguing backstory adds a layer of mystique to the already enchanting natural beauty of the waterfall, making it a spot that sparks imagination as much as it does awe.

Despite the ominous name, visitors consistently describe the reality of Pego do Inferno as anything but hellish. Instead, they find a tranquil and beautiful natural retreat. The contrast between the spooky legend and the serene reality is part of what makes this Algarve gem so captivating. It's a place where nature's beauty triumphs over any dark tales of the past. Instagram

Navigating the Trail and Access

Reaching Pego do Inferno involves a short but potentially challenging hike. From the designated parking area, a narrow dirt path leads to the waterfall, typically taking about 10 minutes. Reddit While some reviews mention it's not always clearly signposted, general advice suggests sticking to the right if you feel lost. Reddit The path can be steep in certain sections, leading some to describe it as a bit of a scramble, especially if you opt for a shortcut that involves descending a cliff face. Reddit

For those seeking an easier route, it's recommended to avoid the steeper shortcuts and opt for a more gradual descent. Reddit However, even the easier path requires sturdy footwear with good grip, as the terrain can be uneven and slippery. Reddit This makes it a bit challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues, though many families do make the trek with careful planning. InstagramReddit

Best Experience: Water Flow and Swimming

The visual impact of Pego do Inferno is significantly enhanced by the presence of flowing water. While the waterfall is beautiful year-round, its flow is most impressive after periods of rain. Reddit In the height of summer, the waterfall can sometimes be dry, though the inviting emerald pool at its base remains a popular spot for swimming. Reddit Visitors often describe the water as cool and refreshing, making it an ideal place to escape the Algarve heat. TikTok

For the truly adventurous, the cliffs surrounding the pool offer opportunities for exhilarating jumps into the water. InstagramReddit This adds an element of thrill to the natural beauty. However, some visitors have noted that the edges of the pool can be overgrown with bamboo, limiting seating space. Reddit Despite this, the overall experience of swimming in the clear, green waters beneath the cascade is consistently praised as a highlight. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2