Can you believe that within Latin America’s largest metropolis there are real oases of environmental preservation? Believe it! There are waterfalls in São Paulo that are the perfect alternative for those who want to cool off on these summer days without having to hit the road.
Below, we’ve listed six destinations located within the municipality’s boundaries that prove the resilience of local biodiversity. These remnants of the Atlantic Forest offer fascinating trails and invigorating cold-water baths.
So get your repellent and sunscreen ready to explore the green side of the metropolis.
Can you believe there are waterfalls in São Paulo?
Marsilac Waterfall
Close to the center of Engenheiro Marsilac, it is possible to drive to its edge, within the Capivari-Monos Environmental Protection Area. Although admission is paid, it offers a range of facilities, such as a changing room and snack bar.
🗓 Open every day from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
💵 R$ 10
📍 Estrada do Capivari, Estrada Engenheiro Marsilac.
Sagui Waterfall
Another easily accessible waterfall, also in the far south of the capital, is Cachoeira do Sagui. It is located inside Fazenda Maravilha, a private property and the area is environmentally preserved. The farm also offers parking, toilets and a picnic area.
🗓O pen every day from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
💵 R$ 30
📍 Estrada Engenheiro Marsilac; From the Parelheiros neighborhood, just follow the road.
Jamil Waterfall
The south zone really is a small piece of unspoiled nature amidst the chaos of São Paulo. Located at the confluence of the Monos River and the Capivari River, the Jamil waterfall is also on private property. Bathed by the Capivari River, one of the only clean rivers in the city, the landscape from the trail makes you doubt that you are still in São Paulo. The walk to the waterfall is about 10 km.
🗓 You can enter at any time and it is possible to camp there, but you must leave by 12 noon the next day.
💵 R$ 30
📍 Follow Estrada da Barragem to Sítio do Jamil (check the map for the route from Parelheiros).
Poço das Virgens Waterfall
The Poço das Virgens waterfall follows the same access as the Jamil waterfall, but a few kilometers earlier. The Poço das Virgens waterfall is accessed via a trail through the Atlantic Forest, from Sítio do Bambu. Bring a snack and water because it’s 12.5 km to the waterfall. The site offers parking and a picnic area.
Every day
💵 Free
📍 Follow Estrada da Barragem, but pay attention to the information signs (check out the route on this map).
Cantareira Park
Engordador Nucleus
In the Cantareira State Park, you can visit the last of our list of waterfalls in São Paulo. Firstly, the Engordador Waterfall, whose trail is not difficult and is only 3 km long. There is an entrance fee to the park. It’s a good idea to keep an eye on the opening hours, which change according to the season. In summer, the park is open from Wednesday to Sunday (and also on public holidays).
🗓 Wednesday to Sunday and public holidays, from 8am to 5pm
💵 R$55 (full price), R$27.50 (half price). The ticket gives free access to the park’s three visitation areas: Engordador, Pedra Grande and Águas Claras)
📍 Avenida Coronel Sezefredo Fagundes, 19100 – Jardim Cachoeira
Cabuçu Nucleus
Finally, still in the Cantareira Park, you can visit the Cabuçu Waterfall. The trail there is considered difficult, with a length of 5.2 km. It is therefore not recommended for young children, the elderly, people with reduced mobility or cardiovascular problems. Remember to bring snacks, plenty of water, insect repellent and sunscreen!
🗓 Wednesday to Sunday, from 8am to 2pm
💵 R$ 19,00
📍 Avenida Pedro de Souza Lopes, 7903 – Jardim São Luís, Guarulhos/SP
