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Poço Encantado: Bahia's Enchanted Underground Well

Discover the mystical Poço Encantado in Bahia, Brazil: a breathtaking cave with crystal-clear turquoise waters illuminated by an ethereal blue light.

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Poço Encantado (Enchanted Well) is a mesmerizing natural wonder in Itaeté, Bahia, within the Chapada Diamantina region. This stunning cave features crystal-clear turquoise waters, reaching depths of up to 60 meters. Sunlight filters through an opening, creating an ethereal blue glow, particularly striking between April and September. Although swimming is prohibited to preserve its delicate ecosystem, the site offers a tranquil and visually stunning experience.

A brief summary to Poço Encantado

  • Monday 8 am-4 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-4 pm
  • Friday 8 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Visit between April and September, from 10:00 to 13:30, to witness the sunlight illuminating the water, creating the iconic blue glow.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for the descent into the cave, as the paths can be uneven.
  • Bring a camera to capture the stunning views, but be prepared to turn off electronic devices for a period of silent contemplation inside the cave.
  • Consider visiting on a weekday or early in the day to avoid crowds.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to Poço Azul, another impressive natural pool in the Chapada Diamantina, where swimming is allowed.
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Getting There

  • Car

    If driving from Lençóis, take BR-242 east for approximately 22 kilometers, then turn right onto BA-142 towards Itaeté. Continue for about 25 kilometers until you see the sign for Poço Encantado. Follow the signs for about 5 kilometers to the entrance. Note that the road can be bumpy, and a 4x4 vehicle is recommended. Parking is available near the entrance for a small fee, around R$10.

  • Public Transport

    From Lençóis, take a bus to Itaeté from the local bus station. The journey takes approximately 1 to 2 hours and costs around R$15. Upon arriving in Itaeté, take a taxi or mototaxi to Poço Encantado, which is about 5 kilometers away from the bus terminal. The taxi fare should be around R$30 to R$50, depending on negotiation.

  • Guided Tour

    Consider booking a guided tour from Lençóis or nearby towns. Many tour operators offer day trips to Poço Encantado, often including visits to other attractions in the area. Prices range from R$150 to R$300 per person, depending on inclusions such as lunch and entrance fees.

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Discover more about Poço Encantado

Nestled in the heart of Bahia, Brazil, Poço Encantado is a captivating natural attraction renowned for its breathtaking turquoise waters and serene atmosphere. Located in the municipality of Itaeté, within the Chapada Diamantina region, this 'Enchanted Well' is a hidden gem that enchants visitors with its beauty and tranquility. The main attraction is the crystal-clear water inside a limestone cave, so transparent that it's hard to tell where the water begins. The well reaches depths of about 60 meters, with rocks and fallen logs visible at the bottom. A unique phenomenon occurs between April and September when a beam of sunlight penetrates through a fissure in the cave, striking the water's surface. This creates an intense blue glow due to the light refracting off the minerals in the water, a spectacle that gives the location its name. Discovered around 1940 by a local hunter named Gustavo, the well has become a prominent tourist destination. Access is via well-maintained steps, totaling 325 steps over 230 meters, ensuring a safe descent. Although swimming is not allowed in the well to protect its natural formation, the experience is enriched by local guides who share insights into the cave's geological formation, regional biodiversity, and the area's history, including tales from the diamond rush era. Poço Encantado offers a contemplative experience, ideal for those seeking a sensory, educational, and visually stunning encounter with nature. The site is equipped with facilities to ensure a comfortable visit.

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