waterfall · Formosa, GO
Salto do Itiquira
A 168-meter drop in a municipal park with natural pools, frequent rainbows at the base and camping facilities. It is about 100 km from Brasília, so you can go and come back in a day.
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 Salto do Itiquira
Salto do Itiquira is one of the highest waterfalls in Brazil. The water plunges in free fall for more than 160 meters, between forest-covered rock walls, in the Parque Municipal do Itiquira, in Formosa, in eastern Goiás.
The name comes from Tupi and is usually translated as "drops of water." It makes sense: near the base, the wind spreads a fine mist that soaks anyone who arrives and, when the sun is out, forms rainbows. The park is run by the Formosa town government.
The main draw is getting close to the falls. The path to the base is paved and has no stairs, which is why Itiquira is known as the most accessible big waterfall in the country, good for children, older visitors and wheelchair users. Swimming is not allowed in the pool at the base, because of the force of the water.
Below the falls, the river continues in rapids and smaller pools, where swimming is allowed. The park also has a restaurant, a leisure area with pools, a playground and a campground. If you want more of a workout, there are trails that climb to the top of the falls; ask at the park about the rules for doing them.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
Allow at least half a day; the whole day if you want to use the pools and the leisure area.
Best time
From April to September, in the dry season, the sky is clearer and access is safer; on sunny mornings it is easier to see rainbows in the mist at the base.
How to get there
The park is in the countryside of Formosa (GO), reached by a paved road. From Brasília, take the BR-020 to Formosa and then the road to Itiquira. You can go and return on the same day.
Tip
Bring a rain jacket or clothes you don't mind getting wet, and protect your phone and camera: the mist near the base soaks you in minutes.
A look at the place
Salto do Itiquira 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 Salto do Itiquira
Is there an entrance fee at Salto do Itiquira?
Yes. There is an entrance fee for the Parque Municipal do Itiquira. Check prices and hours before you go.
Can you swim at Salto do Itiquira?
Not in the pool at the base: the force of the falls makes swimming dangerous. In the smaller river pools below the falls, swimming is allowed.
Is Salto do Itiquira wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The path to near the base is paved and has no stairs, which is why it is considered the most accessible big waterfall in Brazil.
Can you go there and back from Brasília in one day?
Yes. Take the BR-020 to Formosa and then a paved road to the park. It is a classic day trip.
When is the best time to visit Salto do Itiquira?
From April to September, in the dry season. On sunny mornings, rainbows appear in the mist at the base.