natural pool · Lençóis, BA
Ribeirão do Meio
A clear-water pool about 3.5 km from downtown, reached by an easy trail of roughly 45 minutes. The main attraction is a natural rock slide that goes straight into the water, called Rala Bunda ("butt scraper") by locals.
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 Ribeirão do Meio
Ribeirão do Meio is a group of natural pools in a valley near Lençóis, in Chapada Diamantina. It is one of the most popular outings for people staying in town, because you can get there on foot, on an easy trail, without a guide.
The main attraction is a natural slide: a smooth, sloping rock slab, polished by the water, down which the river flows into a large, deep pool. Swimmers climb up the side of the rock and slide down into the water. Around it there are shallower pools, good if you just want to cool off.
The area was once a mining site, like much of the region. The path crosses typical Chapada vegetation, with stretches of woodland, bromeliads and cacti.
The trail is easy and suits most people, but the pool at the slide is deep and has no lifeguard: only slide if you can swim. The rock gets smooth and slippery, and climbing it calls for care.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
Half a day is enough: about 40 minutes of walking each way and a few hours of swimming.
Best time
Any time of year. Going in the morning or on a weekday avoids the crowds on holidays, weekends and late afternoons.
How to get there
It is less than 4 km from downtown Lençóis. The trail leaves from the west side of town and takes about 40 minutes on foot; you don't need a guide.
Tip
Bring water and shoes that can handle wet rock, and watch the people already sliding for a bit before you try: the climb up the side is the most slippery part.
A look at the place
Ribeirão do Meio 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 Ribeirão do Meio
Do I need a guide to go to Ribeirão do Meio?
No. The trail leaves from Lençóis, is easy, and many people go on their own.
How long does the Ribeirão do Meio hike take?
About 40 minutes of walking each way, from town.
Is the Ribeirão do Meio rock slide dangerous?
The pool you land in is deep and there are no lifeguards. Only slide if you can swim, and climbing the wet rock calls for care.
Can I take kids to Ribeirão do Meio?
Yes, the trail is easy and there are shallow pools around. The slide and the deep pool call for adult supervision.
Does it get very crowded?
On holidays, weekends and in the late afternoon, yes. Mornings and weekdays are quieter.