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Cachoeira da Fumaça: Brazil's Majestic 'Smoke' Falls

Hike to Brazil's second-highest waterfall in Chapada Diamantina for breathtaking views and a unique 'smoke' effect.

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Cachoeira da Fumaça, or 'Smoke Falls,' is a stunning natural wonder in Bahia's Chapada Diamantina. Plunging approximately 340 meters, the waterfall's mist-like spray gives it a unique, ethereal quality. The falls can be accessed via a challenging but rewarding hike through the beautiful Vale do Capão.

A brief summary to Cachoeira da Fumaça

  • Vale de, Palmeiras, Caeté-Açu, State of Bahia, 46940-000, BR
  • Monday 7 am-1 pm
  • Tuesday 7 am-1 pm
  • Wednesday 7 am-1 pm
  • Thursday 7 am-1 pm
  • Friday 7 am-1 pm
  • Saturday 7 am-1 pm
  • Sunday 7 am-1 pm

Local tips

  • Start your hike early to avoid the midday heat and potential crowds.
  • Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water, as the trail can be challenging.
  • Consider visiting during the rainy season for a more powerful waterfall, but be prepared for potentially slippery trails.
  • Check with local guides about the waterfall's current flow, as it can dry up in the dry season.
  • A voluntary contribution is requested to support the firefighting brigade of Vale do Capão.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From Palmeiras, take the BR-242 highway towards Lençóis. After about 20 km, turn left onto the road for Vale do Capão. Continue for 8 km to the Cachoeira da Fumaça trailhead. Parking is available for a small fee (around R$10), but arrive early as it fills up quickly.

  • Public Transport

    Take a bus from Lençóis to Palmeiras (R$325, 6h 49m). From Palmeiras, hire a taxi or guide to the Cachoeira da Fumaça trailhead (R$30-50). From the park entrance, hike approximately 2-3 hours to reach the waterfall. There may be a small entrance fee of approximately R$10-R$20.

  • Hiking

    The hike to Cachoeira da Fumaça from Vale do Capão is approximately 6 km (one way) and takes about 2-3 hours. The initial 2 km involve a steep uphill climb. The trail is well-marked, but sturdy hiking shoes and water are essential. In dry periods, the waterfall may have little or no water.

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Discover more about Cachoeira da Fumaça

Cachoeira da Fumaça, nestled in the heart of Bahia's Chapada Diamantina National Park, is one of Brazil's most breathtaking waterfalls. Often considered the second-highest waterfall in Brazil, its impressive 340-meter drop creates a spectacle as the water disperses into a smoky mist before reaching the ground, hence the name 'Smoke Falls'. The falls are located between the municipalities of Lençóis and Palmeiras, with the most common access point being from Vale do Capão. The surrounding landscape is characterized by towering rock walls and diverse vegetation, offering panoramic views that reward the effort required to reach the top. There are two primary ways to experience Cachoeira da Fumaça: from above, via a 6-kilometer trail from Vale do Capão, or from below, a more strenuous 3-day trek from Lençóis. The upper trail, while shorter, involves a steep initial climb and is considered moderately challenging. The lower trail is a more immersive experience, involving wild camping and river crossings. Depending on the season, the waterfall's flow can vary significantly, sometimes even drying up completely. However, even with less water, the views and the unique landscape make the hike worthwhile. On sunny days, rainbows can often be seen over the falls, adding to the magical atmosphere. The waterfall was brought to wider public attention in 1960 by bush pilot George Glass. It also featured in the 2006 film Dhoom 2.

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