Background

Cachoeira Casca D'Anta (Lower Section Access)

Witness the raw beauty of Cachoeira Casca D'Anta, the São Francisco River's first monumental waterfall, from its easily accessible lower section.

4.9

The lower access point to Cachoeira Casca D'Anta offers a stunning view of the waterfall, the first major cascade of the São Francisco River, within the Serra da Canastra National Park. The 186-meter waterfall is framed by the region's characteristic rock formations.

A brief summary to Portaria de acesso à Cachoeira Casca D'Anta - Parte Baixa

  • São Roque de Minas, São José do Barreiro, State of Minas Gerais, 37928-000, BR
  • 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

  • Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially during weekends and holidays.
  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain.
  • Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities within the park.
  • Check weather conditions before visiting, as the trails can be slippery when wet.
  • Consider hiring a local guide to learn more about the area's history, flora, and fauna.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Driving

    From São Roque de Minas, drive towards Vargem Bonita. Then, follow the dirt road towards São José do Barreiro. The road is unpaved from Vargem Bonita onwards. Continue to the park entrance (Portaria 4). The drive from São José do Barreiro to the park entrance is approximately 8.5 km. Parking is available near the entrance. Note that during certain times entry may be restricted to those with special needs. There is currently no fee to enter the park.

  • Walking

    From the park's entrance (Portaria 4), follow the trail to Cachoeira Casca D'Anta. You can choose between the road, which is flatter, or the Trilha Saint-Hilaire, which meanders along the São Francisco River. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow. The walk from the park entrance to the waterfall is roughly 1.5km.

Unlock the Best of Portaria de acesso à Cachoeira Casca D'Anta - Parte Baixa

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Portaria de acesso à Cachoeira Casca D'Anta - Parte Baixa

Cachoeira Casca D'Anta, one of Brazil's highest waterfalls, marks the dramatic starting point of the São Francisco River as it spills from the Serra da Canastra. Reaching the lower section access provides an opportunity to witness the falls' imposing height and the power of the water. The waterfall gets its name from the Casca d'Anta tree (Drimys brasiliensis), so named because tapirs (antas) rub against its bark to relieve ailments. The lower section is reached via a maintained trail, with options to hike along the river or take a vehicle-accessible path. From the end of the trail, a mini-grandstand offers a place to sit and appreciate the view. While swimming is possible in some pools downstream, approaching the base of the falls is only recommended with extreme caution. The Serra da Canastra National Park, established in 1972, protects not only the waterfall but also the headwaters of the São Francisco River and the diverse flora and fauna of the region.

Popular Experiences near Portaria de acesso à Cachoeira Casca D'Anta - Parte Baixa

Popular Hotels near Portaria de acesso à Cachoeira Casca D'Anta - Parte Baixa

Select Currency