Summer hasn’t even arrived yet, but the truth is that living in a tropical country has its advantages; out of nowhere, a spring day can bring very high temperatures. That’s why we’re always looking for shade and fresh water – and why not waterfalls in São Paulo? Yes, they exist and, to prove it, we’ve selected five of them that you can visit without leaving the city.
So, get ready to explore the remaining areas of Atlantic Forest in the capital of São Paulo, because there are surprises in store for you. You’ll definitely want to enjoy a cold bath in one of these places.
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 shore, within the Capivari-Monos Environmental Protection Area. Although admission is paid, it offers a range of facilities, such as a changing room and a snack bar.
Open every day from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m
R$ 10
Capivari Road, Engenheiro Marsilac Road.
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.
Open every day from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m
R$ 10; children up to 5 years old pay half price.
Estrada Engenheiro Marsilac; From the Parelheiros neighborhood, just follow the road.
Jamil Waterfall
The south zone really is a little 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 of the trail makes you doubt that you are still in São Paulo. The route 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
Take the Barragem road to Sítio do Jamil (see the map 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 the Sítio do Bambu. Take a snack and water because it’s 12.5 km to the waterfall. The site offers parking and a picnic area.
Every day
Free of charge
Follow Estrada da Barragem, but pay attention to the information signs (check the route on this map).
Cantareira Park – Engordador Nucleus
In the Cantareira State Park, you can visit the last on our list of waterfalls in São Paulo: the Engordador Waterfall. The 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 timetables, 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, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m
R$ 14 (full price) and R$ 7 (half price). Free admission for children under 12, adults over 60, people with disabilities and public school teachers.
Avenida Coronel Sezefredo Fagundes, 19100 – Jardim Cachoeira
