Cachoeira dos Primatas: A Hidden Waterfall Oasis

Discover a refreshing and easily accessible waterfall escape in Rio's Tijuca National Park. A perfect nature getaway!

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Acesso à Cachoeira dos Primatas e à Trilha Transcarioca (450 metros)

Cachoeira dos Primatas, or Primate Waterfall, is a small, easily accessible waterfall nestled in the Tijuca National Park in Rio de Janeiro. A short, well-marked trail leads to refreshing pools and cascades, offering a peaceful escape from the city. The waterfall gets its name from the presence of small monkeys called 'micos' including the endangered golden lion tamarin.

A brief summary to Acesso à Cachoeira dos Primatas e à Trilha Transcarioca (450 metros)

R. Sara Vilela, 460, Rio de Janeiro, Jardim Botânico, State of Rio de Janeiro, 22460-180, BR
Visit website

Monday 8 am-5 pm
Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
Thursday 8 am-5 pm
Friday 8 am-5 pm
Saturday 8 am-5 pm
Sunday 8 am-5 pm

Local tips

Wear comfortable hiking shoes, as the trail can be uneven and slippery in places.
Bring water and snacks, as there are no facilities along the trail.
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
Check the weather forecast before your visit to ensure a pleasant hiking experience.
Avoid using personal hygiene products like shampoo or sunscreen while swimming in the waterfall to help preserve the water quality.

Getting There

Public Transport

To reach Cachoeira dos Primatas via public transport, take a bus to the Jardim Botânico neighborhood. From Jardim Botânico, follow the signs towards Rua Sara Vilela. The trailhead is located at the end of this street. Several bus lines serve Jardim Botânico. Check the Moovit app for real-time bus schedules and routes. A single bus fare within Rio de Janeiro typically costs around R$4.05.
Walking

If you are already in the Jardim Botânico neighborhood, the easiest way to reach Cachoeira dos Primatas is by walking. Head towards Rua Sara Vilela, which is located off Rua Jardim Botânico. The trail entrance is at the very end of Rua Sara Vilela. The walk from the main part of Jardim Botânico to the trailhead takes approximately 20-30 minutes.
Taxi/Ride-Share

If taking a taxi or ride-share service, input 'Rua Sara Vilela, Jardim Botânico' as your destination. Be aware that traffic can be heavy depending on the time of day. A short taxi ride from areas like Copacabana or Ipanema to Jardim Botânico will cost approximately R$30-R$50. Upon arrival at the end of Rua Sara Vilela, you'll find the trailhead.

Discover more about Acesso à Cachoeira dos Primatas e à Trilha Transcarioca (450 metros)

Cachoeira dos Primatas (Primate Waterfall) is a serene escape located within Sector B of the expansive Tijuca National Park, in Rio de Janeiro's Jardim Botânico neighborhood. The name originates from the small monkeys, including the endangered golden lion tamarin, that inhabit the area. While the falls themselves aren't massive, they offer a refreshing destination, particularly on warm days. The trail to the waterfall is short and well-maintained, making it an easy hike for most visitors. The path winds through lush vegetation, offering glimpses of Rio's diverse plant life. Along the way, you'll pass the Gruta dos Primatas, an area filled with large boulders. The hike to the main waterfall is roughly 450 meters and is considered easy. Upon reaching the falls, you'll find a rocky area with small pools where you can take a dip. The water flow varies depending on rainfall, so the pools may be fuller and more impressive after a rainy period. The waterfall is part of the hydrographic basin of the Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon, contributing to its formation. While swimming is allowed, it is advised not to use any hygiene products such as shampoo or sunscreen, in order to preserve the water quality.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Lago das Fadas

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Praça Antero de Quental

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Cazuza Statue

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Cidade do Leblon

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Square Zózimo Barrosos do Amaral

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Obelisk Ipanema

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Posto 10

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Monumento ao Sen. Pinheiro Machado

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Sel d'Ipanema Beach Club

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Heliponto Mirante Dona Marta

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Largo do Cantão

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Feira Hippie de Ipanema

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Parish São Judas Tadeu

4.2 km

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Cemitério de São João Batista

4.3 km

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Unmissable attractions to see

Archaeological site Casa Drumsticks

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Botanical Garden of Rio de Janeiro

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Jockey Club Brasileiro

1.2 km

Experience the thrill of horse racing and cultural events at Rio de Janeiro's historic Jockey Club Brasileiro in Gávea.

Fundação Planetário da Cidade do Rio de Janeiro

1.6 km

Explore the universe at Rio de Janeiro's Planetário, the largest planetarium in Latin America, offering stellar shows and interactive science exhibits.

Fundação Planetário da Cidade do Rio de Janeiro

Cachoeiras do Horto

1.6 km

Discover a hidden paradise in Rio's Tijuca National Park: hike to refreshing waterfalls and escape the city bustle.

Parque Lage

2.1 km

Discover Rio's enchanting Parque Lage: A blend of Roman architecture, lush nature, and stunning Christ the Redeemer views in Jardim Botânico.

Grutas - Parque Lage

2.1 km

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Vista Chinesa

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Museu Histórico da Cidade

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Paineiras Corcovado (Cristo Redentor)

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Centro de Visitantes Paineiras

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Christ the Redeemer

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Rio

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Pedra da Proa

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Mirante Sacopã

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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

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Leblon

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Esquina de Ipanema

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Galeria Ipanema 2000

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Havaianas

3.1 km

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Gilson Martins Ipanema

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Essential bars & hidden hideouts

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Boteco Belmonte

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Brewteco

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Bar colinda

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Bar Bracarense

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Jobi

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Bar do Bacana

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Veloso

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Bar Para Pedro

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Leblon Prime 191

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Nosso

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Cantinho de Ipanema

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Meza Bar

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Barzin Gastrobar Ipanema

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Bar Panorama

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Milton Dias de Oliveira

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Fosfobox Bar Club

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Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Cachoeira dos Primatas: A Hidden Waterfall Oasis

A brief summary to Acesso à Cachoeira dos Primatas e à Trilha Transcarioca (450 metros)

Local tips

Getting There

Public Transport

Walking

Taxi/Ride-Share

Unlock the Best of Acesso à Cachoeira dos Primatas e à Trilha Transcarioca (450 metros)

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Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Acesso à Cachoeira dos Primatas e à Trilha Transcarioca (450 metros)

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Lago das Fadas

Track Corcovado, Christ Redeemer

Praça Antero de Quental

Cazuza Statue

Cidade do Leblon

Square Zózimo Barrosos do Amaral

Obelisk Ipanema

Posto 10

Monumento ao Sen. Pinheiro Machado

Sel d'Ipanema Beach Club

Heliponto Mirante Dona Marta

Largo do Cantão

Feira Hippie de Ipanema

Parish São Judas Tadeu

Cemitério de São João Batista

Unmissable attractions to see

Archaeological site Casa Drumsticks

Botanical Garden of Rio de Janeiro

Jockey Club Brasileiro

Fundação Planetário da Cidade do Rio de Janeiro

Cachoeiras do Horto

Parque Lage

Grutas - Parque Lage

Vista Chinesa

Museu Histórico da Cidade

Paineiras Corcovado (Cristo Redentor)

Centro de Visitantes Paineiras

Christ the Redeemer

Rio

Pedra da Proa

Mirante Sacopã

Essential places to dine

Prana Vegetariano

Visu Restaurante

Plage Café

Massa + Ella

CT Boucherie

Nola

Sushi Leblon

Giuseppe Grill Leblon

La Mole

Mr. Lam

Filé do Lira

Degrau Restaurante

BB Lanches

Le Vin Bistrô Rio | Leblon

Oro

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Gaoli Beach Couture

Rio Design Leblon

Moncloa Tea Boutique

Shopping Leblon

Garage Rio- Shopping Leblon

Oficina Reserva | Leblon

Le Lis - Shopping Leblon

Shoulder

Aesop

Luxury Gávea Bed & Breakfast

Leblon

Esquina de Ipanema

Galeria Ipanema 2000

Havaianas

Gilson Martins Ipanema

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Liz Cocktail & Co

Boteco Belmonte

Brewteco