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

Discover the breathtaking Cachoeira da Fumaça in Bahia's Chapada Diamantina: Hike to panoramic views of Brazil's majestic 'Smoke Falls'.

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Cachoeira da Fumaça, or 'Smoke Falls,' is a stunning waterfall in Bahia, Brazil, within the Chapada Diamantina National Park. Once thought to be the country's highest, its 340-meter cascade plummets from a cliff, often dispersing into a misty cloud before reaching the ground, giving it the name 'Fumaça'. Reaching this natural wonder involves a moderately challenging hike, rewarding visitors with breathtaking panoramic views.

A brief summary to Cachoeira da Fumaça

  • Vale de, Palmeiras, Caeté-Açu, State of Bahia, 46940-000, BR

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy hiking shoes as the trails can be uneven and slippery.
  • Bring plenty of water and snacks to stay energized throughout your hike.
  • Visit during the dry season for the best hiking conditions and clear views of the waterfall.
  • Consider starting your hike early in the morning to avoid crowds and catch the best light for photography.
  • A voluntary contribution fee is requested to support the firefighting brigade of Vale do Capão.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The most common way to approach Cachoeira da Fumaça is by hiking from Vale do Capão. The trailhead is located approximately 3 kilometers from the village. From the village center, follow the well-marked path towards the ecological base, which marks the start of the official trail. The 6-kilometer hike to the falls typically takes 2-3 hours, with a challenging initial ascent. There is no entrance fee, but a voluntary contribution fee is requested to support the firefighting brigade of Vale do Capão.

  • Public Transport

    To reach Cachoeira da Fumaça via public transport, take a bus from Lençóis to Palmeiras. Buses run frequently, and the journey takes about 30 minutes. Once in Palmeiras, hire a local taxi or guide to take you to the Cachoeira da Fumaça trailhead, which costs around R$30-50. From the drop-off point, hike approximately 1.5 to 2 hours to reach the waterfall. The bus ride costs roughly R$ 10-15.

  • Car

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

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Discover more about Cachoeira da Fumaça

Cachoeira da Fumaça, nestled in the heart of Bahia's Chapada Diamantina, is a sight to behold. This majestic waterfall, once believed to be Brazil's highest, plunges approximately 340 meters (1,120 feet) down the face of a cliff. The sheer height and force of the falls cause the water to dissipate into a misty spray, creating the illusion of smoke, hence its evocative name. The journey to Cachoeira da Fumaça is an adventure in itself. The most common access point is via a 6-kilometer (3.7-mile) trail from the ecological base in Vale do Capão. This moderately challenging hike typically takes around 2 to 3 hours each way, demanding a reasonable level of fitness, especially during the initial uphill climb. Along the well-marked path, hikers are treated to stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape, including the iconic Morrão. As you approach the falls, the sound of the cascading water grows louder, building anticipation for the spectacle that awaits. Upon reaching the viewpoints, visitors are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Cachoeira da Fumaça and the surrounding valley. The falls themselves are a mesmerizing sight, with the water transforming into a cloud of mist that dances in the wind. On sunny days, rainbows often appear, adding to the magical atmosphere. For the truly adventurous, an alternative route involves a challenging 3-day trek from Lençóis, offering a unique perspective of the falls from below. This demanding hike covers approximately 36 kilometers and requires camping in the wilderness. Regardless of the chosen route, a visit to Cachoeira da Fumaça is an unforgettable experience, immersing you in the raw beauty of Brazil's natural wonders.

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