waterfall · Mateiros, TO
Cachoeira da Formiga
A low waterfall that empties into a natural pool of an almost unreal emerald green. It is one of the most popular attractions in Jalapão.
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 da Formiga
Cachoeira da Formiga is a small waterfall on the river of the same name, in Mateiros, in Jalapão (TO). It is one of the most popular attractions in the region.
What stands out is the color of the water, between emerald green and blue. It is so clear that you can see the light sandy limestone bottom. The waterfall drops into a calm pool surrounded by native forest.
The thing to do here is swim. The water temperature is pleasant: it cools you off in the Jalapão heat without being as cold as other waterfalls. The waterfall is on private property, which charges admission and has a bar with food, restrooms and a camping area.
From the entrance to the water, access is easy along a short path, with no hard hiking. The hard part is getting to Jalapão: the roads are dirt and soft sand, and it is best to go by 4x4 or with a tour agency.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
A stop of a few hours, for a swim and a meal at the bar by the entrance.
Best time
In the dry season, from May to September, when Jalapão's roads are in better condition; choose weekdays and arrive early, because the waterfall gets crowded on holidays and in high season.
How to get there
It is in Mateiros, in Jalapão (TO), reached by the dirt road from Mateiros to São Félix do Tocantins, the same route as some of the fervedouros. Roads in the region are sand and dirt, poorly signposted and with no cell signal on many stretches: go by 4x4 with a driver who knows the area or with a tour agency.
Tip
Avoid long holiday weekends and arrive early: it is one of the most popular attractions in Jalapão and there may be a line to get in.
A look at the place
Cachoeira da Formiga 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 da Formiga
Is there an entrance fee at Cachoeira da Formiga?
Yes. The waterfall is on private property, which charges admission per person.
Is the water at Cachoeira da Formiga cold?
The temperature is pleasant: it cools you off in the Jalapão heat without being as cold as other waterfalls.
Do I need a 4x4 to get to Cachoeira da Formiga?
Yes, it is recommended. Jalapão's roads are dirt and soft sand, difficult for a regular car, and most visitors go with an agency.
Is it hard to get to the water?
No. The path from the entrance to the waterfall is short and easy, with no hard hiking.
Can you camp at Cachoeira da Formiga?
Yes. The property has a camping area, as well as a bar with food and restrooms.