river beach · Mateiros, TO
Prainha do Rio Novo
A stretch of white sand on the banks of the Rio Novo, with calm, shallow water perfect for swimming. It becomes a camping and resting spot between one attraction and the next.
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 Prainha do Rio Novo
Prainha do Rio Novo is a stretch of white sand on the bank of the Rio Novo, in Jalapão, in Mateiros. It is a few minutes' walk from Cachoeira da Velha, within the Parque Estadual do Jalapão, so it is part of almost every itinerary that visits the waterfall.
The Rio Novo is known for its clean, clear water, so clear that you can see small fish near the bank. The water is cold and very shallow next to the sand.
The plan is simple: swim, rest in the shade and have a snack after visiting the waterfall. Many groups stop there for lunch or to catch their breath on hot days, between one attraction and the next.
At the edge, the water is calm and suits even weak swimmers and children, always with an adult nearby. Toward the middle of the river the current gets stronger, so do not try to cross to the other bank.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
One to three hours, usually combined with a visit to Cachoeira da Velha.
Best time
In the dry season, from May to September, when the water is clearer and the dirt roads are in better condition; on hot days, early afternoon is the best time for a swim.
How to get there
It is in the countryside of Mateiros, next to Cachoeira da Velha, in the Parque Estadual do Jalapão, reached by the TO-255. Roads in the region are dirt and sand, so most visitors go with an agency and guide in a 4x4 vehicle. It is a short walk from the waterfall area to the beach.
Tip
Bring water, sunscreen and a snack, and take all your trash back with you. If you have a diving mask, bring it: you can see fish in the clear water.
A look at the place
Prainha do Rio Novo 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 Prainha do Rio Novo
Can you swim at Prainha do Rio Novo?
Yes. Next to the sand the water is shallow and calm. Toward the middle of the river there is a current, so do not try to cross to the other bank.
Is Prainha do Rio Novo good for kids?
Yes, in the shallow part by the edge, always with an adult nearby. Do not let children go toward the middle of the river.
Where is Prainha do Rio Novo?
In Mateiros, in Jalapão (TO), a few minutes' walk from Cachoeira da Velha, within the Parque Estadual do Jalapão.
Do I need a 4x4 to get to Prainha do Rio Novo?
Access is by dirt and sand roads, so most visitors go with an agency and guide in a 4x4 vehicle.
Is the water in the Rio Novo cold?
Yes, the water is cold and very clear, good for cooling off on hot days.