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Rock formation · Cabaceiras, PB
Lajedo de Pai Mateus
A granite outcrop of about 1.5 km² in the rural area of Cabaceiras, covered by more than a hundred large rounded blocks, such as the Pedra do Capacete, and featuring rock paintings. The visit is guided and departs from the farm where the lajedo is located.
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 Lajedo de Pai Mateus
Lajedo de Pai Mateus is a large granite slab in the rural area of Cabaceiras, about 18 km north of town, inside the Cariri Environmental Protection Area. On the slightly domed surface, roughly 1.5 km², more than a hundred rounded boulders are scattered, some weighing tens of tons. Geologists call the formation a “sea of balls,” and the Brazilian Geological Survey records it as a geosite.
The best-known block is the Pedra do Capacete, located on the highest part of the slab, featuring a cavity shaped by erosion that resembles a helmet. Other blocks appear balanced on top of one another. The shapes result from millions of years of granite weathering due to temperature variation and the Cariri’s limited rainfall.
Some blocks bear rock paintings attributed to peoples who lived in the region long before colonization. The name comes from Pai Mateus, a hermit healer who, according to oral tradition, lived in a rock shelter on the lajedo in the 18th century and received people from across the region. In the shelter there are human hand marks on the walls.
The lajedo is on private property and visits are made with a guide, departing from the Pai Mateus farm at fixed times throughout the day. Part of the route is done in the visitor’s car and the rest on foot, across the slab exposed to the sun. The last departure of the afternoon is the most sought-after because of the late-day light.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 2 hours with the guide, including the drive inside the farm and the walk on the slab.
Best time
In the late afternoon, when the low light brings out the colors of the granite and the heat eases. A morning visit is also good and the slab is less hot. Check departure times before you go.
How to get there
Leave Cabaceiras on the road that runs north toward Boa Vista; part of the route is paved and part is dirt, passable by a normal car. The entrance is at Fazenda Pai Mateus, where you pay the visit fee and meet the guide. There is no public transport to the site.
Tip
Bring water, a hat, sunscreen, and footwear with good grip: the slab is smooth and gets very hot. The visit is paid separately; check the current price list with the farm. Arrange the time in advance on holidays and during the Festa do Bode Rei.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Lajedo de Pai Mateus
Can you visit Lajedo de Pai Mateus without a guide?
No. The lajedo is on private property and visits are conducted with the farm’s guide at fixed times. Visitors not staying overnight can also go, paying the visitation fee.
What is Pedra do Capacete?
It is the most well-known granite block on the lajedo, at the highest point of the slab. Erosion carved a cavity at the base that gives the stone the shape of a helmet.
How far is Cabaceiras from Lajedo de Pai Mateus?
The Geological Service of Brazil indicates about 18 km north of the town. Part of the route is dirt, passable by a normal car.
What time should I choose to go to Lajedo de Pai Mateus?
The late-afternoon departure is the most sought after, for the sunset light and the cooler temperatures. In the morning the slab is also cooler.