village · Palmeiras, BA
Vale do Capão
A valley of about 10 km in the district of Caeté-Açu, surrounded by the cliffs of Serra do Sincorá and by Morrão, a mesa that dominates the landscape. The village is the starting point for the trail to the top of Cachoeira da Fumaça and to other waterfalls in the valley.
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 Vale do Capão
Vale do Capão is a small village in the municipality of Palmeiras, in Chapada Diamantina, surrounded by mountains and waterfalls. The village's official name is Caeté-Açu, but almost everyone calls it Capão. It is one of the most popular bases in the Chapada for travelers looking for hiking and nature.
For a long time the village was an isolated rural community. Over time, people from many parts of Brazil and the world arrived, settled there and began living alongside the locals. That mix produced the alternative vibe the place is known for, with holistic therapies, yoga, vegetarian food, handicrafts and a cultural calendar that includes a jazz festival.
The little center is simple: a main street and a square, with agencies, restaurants, small shops and pousadas (guesthouses). Around it, the valley opens between cliffs and hills, with Morrão standing out in the landscape. Trails leave the village for the top of Cachoeira da Fumaça, Vale do Pati, Águas Claras, Purificação and other waterfalls.
Capão appeals to people who enjoy hiking and a slow pace. Some trails are short and easy, others are long and require fitness and a local guide. Cell phone signal is weak, and internet is usually limited to pousadas and shops.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
Set aside at least three or four days to see the village and the main trails; if you include the Vale do Pati trek, you need about a week.
Best time
From May to October, in the drier season, when the trails are firm and the sky is usually clear; the nights are cool, especially in winter.
How to get there
Capão is in the district of Caeté-Açu, in Palmeiras. By car, take the BR-242 to Palmeiras and continue on the state road that links the town to the village. If you go by bus, get off in Palmeiras and finish the trip by van, taxi or local hired car. If you are staying in Lençóis, you arrive the same way, via the BR-242.
Tip
Don't count on cell phone signal, since internet is usually limited to pousadas and shops, and hire a local guide for the long trails, such as the one to the top of Cachoeira da Fumaça.
A look at the place
Vale do Capão 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 Vale do Capão
What is the official name of Vale do Capão?
The village is officially called Caeté-Açu and belongs to the municipality of Palmeiras, in Chapada Diamantina (BA).
How many days should I spend in Vale do Capão?
Three to four days is enough to see the village and the main trails. If you want to do the Vale do Pati trek, set aside about a week.
Do I need a 4x4 to get to Vale do Capão?
No. The village is reached by road from Palmeiras, and you can get there in a regular car. Some trail access roads, such as the one to Morrão, are better with a higher-clearance vehicle.
Is there cell phone signal in Vale do Capão?
Signal is weak or nonexistent in much of the valley. Internet is usually limited to pousadas, restaurants and shops.
What outings start from Vale do Capão?
Trails leave the village for the top of Cachoeira da Fumaça, Vale do Pati, Águas Claras and Morrão, and for waterfalls such as Riachinho, Purificação and Angélica.