cave · Nova Redenção, BA
Poço Azul
Inside a cave, sunlight comes through a crack and makes the water glow an almost unreal blue. Floating is done with a life vest and is only worth it at the right time of 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 Poço Azul
Poço Azul is a lake inside a limestone cave, in the countryside of Nova Redenção, in the southern Chapada Diamantina, in Bahia. The water is so clear that you can see the rocks at the bottom, many meters below.
The pool was found by diamond miners in the early 20th century and became a tourist attraction decades later. It is also an important scientific site: research divers have recovered fossils of prehistoric animals from the bottom, including skeletons of giant ground sloths.
The big moment is when the sun comes through an opening in the cave and hits the water directly, which glows a deep blue. This happens around midday and only during part of the year, so it is worth planning your visit for that time.
Unlike nearby Poço Encantado, here you are allowed in the water. Floating is done with a life jacket, mask and snorkel, in a marked area, and time in the water is limited. Before going in, everyone takes a mandatory shower to keep the water clean. The way down to the pool is by stairs, which takes some fitness on the way back up.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
Allow one to two hours on site, counting the wait for your turn, the shower and the float.
Best time
Around midday, in the months when the sun shines straight into the cave; check the period with the site before you go, because outside it the water is much less lit.
How to get there
It is in the countryside of Nova Redenção (BA), in the Andaraí and Mucugê region. Access is by the road to Nova Redenção, and the final stretch is dirt, with signs. The most practical way is to go by car or with an agency from Lençóis, Andaraí or Mucugê.
Tip
In high season, arrive early to secure your turn during the sunlight window, and wear your swimsuit under your clothes to speed up the shower and the float.
A look at the place
Poço Azul 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 Poço Azul
Can you get in the water at Poço Azul?
Yes. Floating is allowed with a life jacket, mask and snorkel, in a marked area and for a limited time. A shower beforehand is mandatory.
What is the best time of day to see Poço Azul?
Around midday, when the sun comes through the cave opening and lights up the water. This only happens during part of the year; check the period before you go.
Is there an entrance fee for Poço Azul?
Yes. There is an entrance fee, and floating gear is provided on site.
What is the difference between Poço Azul and Poço Encantado?
Both are cave lakes in Chapada Diamantina, but they are in different municipalities. At Poço Azul, in Nova Redenção, you can float in the water; at Poço Encantado, in Itaetê, you can only look.
Do I need a guide to go to Poço Azul?
It is not mandatory: you can drive there, and the visit is supervised by site staff. Many people go with an agency from Lençóis.