waterfall / trail · Bodoquena, MS
Cachoeiras Boca da Onça
A trail of several hours past a series of waterfalls and natural pools to the tallest waterfall in Mato Grosso do Sul, at 156 meters. There is also a breathtaking rappel.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Cachoeiras Boca da Onça
Boca da Onça is a private ecotourism property in rural Bodoquena, in Mato Grosso do Sul, in the Serra da Bodoquena, next to the Salobra River canyon. The name comes from its main waterfall, the Boca da Onça, which has a 156-meter free fall and is the tallest in the state.
The main trail takes four to five hours and passes eight waterfalls, with five swimming stops in natural pools, before reaching the base of the big fall. The route includes climbing the Escada do Paredão, a staircase of 886 steps and the most tiring stretch.
There is also a longer trail, which follows a stretch of the Salobra River bank and adds up to 15 falls and cascades, and the shorter Meia Trilha Buraco do Macaco, designed for families with young children, which does not reach the Boca da Onça waterfall.
The other highlight is the 90-meter rappel, done from a platform that juts out over the cliff, facing the Salobra River canyon, billed as the largest platform rappel in Brazil. Tours include breakfast and lunch at the property's restaurant.
The full trail calls for good fitness because of the staircase and slippery rocks. If you have little stamina or are traveling with young children, the half trail is a lighter option.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
Allow the whole day: the main trail takes four to five hours, not counting breakfast, lunch and the rappel.
Best time
You can visit year-round; in the rainy months the falls carry more water, but rocks and steps get more slippery. Leave early, because the tour starts in the morning and takes up most of the day.
How to get there
It is in rural Bodoquena (MS), in the Serra da Bodoquena, and most visitors come from Bonito, by car or with transportation booked through an agency. Visits require advance booking.
Tip
Wear sturdy shoes that can get wet and bring a swimsuit, sunscreen and insect repellent. The rappel is sold as a separate tour, combined with the main trail; if you want to do it, book that option from the start.
Official website
A look at the place
Cachoeiras Boca da Onça in pictures
These pictures are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs. They may differ from the place.
Click the picture to enlarge it.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Cachoeiras Boca da Onça
Is Boca da Onça in Bonito or Bodoquena?
It is in the municipality of Bodoquena (MS), in the Serra da Bodoquena. Most visitors come from Bonito.
How tall is the Boca da Onça waterfall?
It has a 156-meter free fall and is the tallest waterfall in Mato Grosso do Sul.
Is the trail difficult?
The main trail requires good fitness: it takes four to five hours and includes climbing a staircase of 886 steps. There is an easier half trail that does not reach the main waterfall.
Is it OK to bring children?
Yes. The Meia Trilha Buraco do Macaco is recommended for families with young children. Check the minimum ages for each tour on the official website.
Is there an entrance fee?
Yes. It is private land, there is an entrance fee and visits require booking. Tours include breakfast and lunch.