waterfall · Ponte Alta do Tocantins, TO
Cachoeira do Lajeado
Formed by the Rio Lajeado, it is about 36 km from town, in the area leading into Jalapão. The falls run down between rocks and form natural pools used for swimming, surrounded by cerrado vegetation.
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 do Lajeado
Cachoeira do Lajeado is in the countryside of Ponte Alta do Tocantins, the town that serves as a gateway to Jalapão. The water runs down rock steps, in a series of smaller falls and slabs, to a swimming pool at the bottom, surrounded by vegetation.
The visit has two parts. At the top, on the slabs and small falls, swimming is calmer and suits those who prefer not to take risks. To reach the lower pool, you have to climb down the waterfall itself, step by step.
The pool has clear water and shade, good for spending some time in the water after the climb down. The largest fall, which drops into the pool, is the highlight of the outing.
The way down is slippery and has no marked trail. It requires care and good mobility, and it is not recommended for small children or people with limited mobility.
The waterfall is often included on itineraries from Ponte Alta do Tocantins into the interior of Jalapão, often on the same day as Cânion Sussuapara.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
Allow about two hours to climb down to the pool and enjoy a swim.
Best time
In the dry season, from May to September, when the sand roads are easier and the river is calmer for swimming; go during the day, with good light for the climb down the rocks.
How to get there
It is in the countryside of Ponte Alta do Tocantins, off the paved road. Access is by a dirt road with stretches of soft sand, only by 4x4, and there are no signs: most people go with a local guide or on an agency tour.
Tip
Wear shoes that grip wet rock and go down slowly, using your hands on the rock slabs; the rocks are slippery.
A look at the place
Cachoeira do Lajeado 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 do Lajeado
Do I need a guide to go to Cachoeira do Lajeado?
It is recommended. The access has no signs and is off the paved road, so most people go with a local guide or on an agency tour.
Do I need a 4x4?
Yes. The road has stretches of soft sand that a regular car cannot handle.
Can you swim at Cachoeira do Lajeado?
Yes. You can swim on the slabs and small falls at the top and in the pool at the foot of the largest fall.
Is it hard to get to the pool?
You climb down the waterfall itself, step by step, over slippery rocks. It requires care and good mobility.
Is it suitable for children and older visitors?
The climb down to the pool is not recommended for small children or people with limited mobility. The upper part is easier.