waterfall / waterfall complex · Alto Paraíso de Goiás, GO
Catarata dos Couros
A complex of several falls and natural pools in open rock, far from the center and reached by dirt road. It feels like you have the chapada all to yourself.
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 Catarata dos Couros
The Catarata dos Couros is a complex of waterfalls and natural pools formed by the Rio dos Couros, in Alto Paraíso de Goiás, in Chapada dos Veadeiros. The Goiás state government describes it as one of the most impressive sets of falls in the cerrado, and the area is protected by the Parque Estadual Águas do Paraíso.
The outing is a walk along the riverbank, from fall to fall. Along the way you'll see the Cachoeira da Muralha, with a large rock wall streaked by many threads of water, stretches of small beaches and swimming pools, the Cachoeira do Parafuso, where the riverbed narrows, and Almécegas Mil. At the end is the catarata itself, a series of three tall falls seen from above, which is not a place to swim.
The surroundings are open cerrado, with gallery forest following the river. The trail is considered easy to moderate for the most part, with rocks and some harder downhill stretches. It's not recommended for people with limited mobility.
The place is far from the center and access is almost entirely by dirt road, so the visit takes the whole day. It's worth it if you like hiking and alternating trail with river swims.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
Set aside the whole day: the round trip is long and the walk along the falls, with swimming stops, takes up much of the day.
Best time
In the dry season, between May and October, when the dirt road is easier and the pools safer; in the rainy season some pools form dangerous whirlpools. Leave early to make the most of the daylight.
How to get there
It's more than 40 km from the center of Alto Paraíso de Goiás: a paved stretch and then a long dirt road, with forks and few signs. You can only get there by car or on a guided tour; there's no public transportation. From the parking lot, continue on foot along the riverside trail.
Tip
Download the route map before you leave, because cell signal drops and the forks in the dirt road are confusing; if you don't know the region, go with a guide hired at the Alto Paraíso visitor center.
A look at the place
Catarata dos Couros 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 Catarata dos Couros
Is there an entrance fee for the Catarata dos Couros?
There's no official admission charge, but at the parking lot you'll usually be asked for a contribution for watching the cars.
Do I need a guide for the Catarata dos Couros?
It's not required, but it's recommended if you don't know the region: the dirt road has poorly marked forks and the trail crosses rocks and pools that call for care.
How long does the visit take?
It's a full-day outing, including the round-trip drive and the walk along the various falls.
Can I walk or take a bus from downtown Alto Paraíso?
No. The place is more than 40 km from the center, with a long stretch of dirt road; you need to go by car or on a guided tour.
Can you swim at the Catarata dos Couros?
Yes, in several pools and small beaches along the river. The final fall is only for viewing from above, and in the rainy season some pools have whirlpools, so the dry season is the safest.