lake · Formosa, GO
Lagoa Feia
A lagoon about 5 km from downtown that is the source of the Rio Preto (river), in the São Francisco basin; a Crown tax post operated nearby in the 18th century. Today it is used for fishing, stand-up paddleboarding, canoeing and boat rides.
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 Lagoa Feia
Lagoa Feia is the main spot for water recreation in Formosa, in the area surrounding the Federal District. It is a large, pretty, elongated lagoon surrounded by cerrado (Brazilian savanna) and small farms, about 5 km from downtown.
It is the source of the Rio Preto (river), which flows into the São Francisco river basin. The lagoon also has a place in the region's history: in 1736, the Portuguese Crown set up the Estação Fiscal de Registro da Lagoa Feia (tax post) nearby, where the routes from Bahia and the São Francisco met. That is why it is part of Formosa's Rota Colonial.
Today the lagoon is popular for fishing, stand-up paddleboarding, canoeing, boat rides, pedal boats and jet skis.
The outing is easy and suits anyone, with no trail or long walk. If you just want to enjoy the scenery, the shore alone is worth the visit, especially in the late afternoon.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
An afternoon is enough to see the shore and go out on the water; if you are fishing or paddling, you will usually stay the whole day.
Best time
In the dry season, from May to September, the sky is clear and there is little rain; late afternoon is the most beautiful time, with the low sun over the water.
How to get there
It is about 5 km from downtown Formosa (GO), a town in the area surrounding the Federal District. From downtown, you can get there by car or ride-hailing app.
Tip
Bring sunscreen, a hat and water: the shore has little shade and the cerrado sun is strong, even in the cooler months.
A look at the place
Lagoa Feia 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 Lagoa Feia
Where is Lagoa Feia?
In Formosa (GO), about 5 km from downtown.
Can you swim in Lagoa Feia?
The lagoon is used for water sports, such as stand-up paddleboarding and canoeing. Ask on site about the recommended areas and watch out for boats and jet skis.
What is there to do at Lagoa Feia?
Fishing, stand-up paddleboarding, canoeing, boat rides, pedal boats and jet skis, plus enjoying the shore.
Why is it called Lagoa Feia?
The name is old, from colonial times, when the Registro da Lagoa Feia, a tax post created in 1736, operated nearby.
Do I need to hike to reach Lagoa Feia?
No. You can drive right to the shore, with no trail or long walk.