waterfall · Alto Paraíso de Goiás, GO
Cachoeira Almécegas I
A fall of about 50 meters on a private farm, with a viewpoint at the top and a wide pool at the base. The descent is steep, but the swim is worth it.
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 Cachoeira Almécegas I
The Cachoeira Almécegas I (waterfall) is on Fazenda São Bento, a private property on the highway linking Alto Paraíso de Goiás to the Vila de São Jorge, in Chapada dos Veadeiros. It's one of the tallest and most popular falls near town.
There are three ways to experience it. From the viewpoint, at the top of the trail, you look straight at the falls and the many veils of water streaming down the rock wall. Down below is a deep pool of very cold water, where you can swim near the falls. And at the top there are natural pools. After the main fall, the river continues forming small cascades and the start of a canyon.
The trail has rocks and steep stretches, with some support ropes and benches for resting. The descent is tough and the return, all uphill, is more tiring. It's not recommended for people with limited mobility; it takes moderate fitness.
Admission is paid at the farmhouse and usually also includes Almécegas II and the Cachoeira São Bento, on the same property.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
A morning is enough to go down to the Almécegas I pool, stop at the viewpoint and come back; with Almécegas II and São Bento, set aside the day.
Best time
In the dry season, between May and October, when the trail is safer and the water clearer. Arrive early, with fewer people and good sun on the falls.
How to get there
It's on Fazenda São Bento, on GO-239, about 8 km from the center of Alto Paraíso de Goiás, on the way to São Jorge. From the farmhouse you drive along an internal dirt road to the trailhead and then continue on foot. You don't need a 4x4 in the dry season.
Tip
Go down slowly and save energy for the return, which is all uphill; and be careful with the very cold water in the pool, which can cause cramps. Don't confuse it with Almécegas Mil, which is at the Catarata dos Couros.
A look at the place
Cachoeira Almécegas I 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 Cachoeira Almécegas I
Is there an entrance fee for Almécegas I?
Yes. The waterfall is on a private farm and admission is paid at the Fazenda São Bento farmhouse; the ticket usually also covers Almécegas II and the Cachoeira São Bento.
Do I need a guide for Almécegas I?
No. The trail is self-guided, starting from the farmhouse.
Is the Almécegas I trail hard?
It's moderate: short, but with rocks and a steep descent, and the return is all uphill. It's not recommended for people with limited mobility.
Can you swim at Almécegas I?
Yes. The pool at the base is deep and the water is very cold; there are also natural pools at the top of the falls.
What are the opening hours?
Visits are during the day; check hours with Fazenda São Bento before you go.