rock formation · Ponte Alta do Tocantins, TO
Pedra Furada
A natural sandstone arch carved by wind and rain in the middle of open cerrado. A classic stop on the way to or from Mateiros.
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 Pedra Furada
Pedra Furada is a sandstone formation carved by wind and rain in Ponte Alta do Tocantins, in Jalapão. Erosion opened holes in the rock that work like doorways, through which you can see the cerrado on the other side.
It is on private property in the countryside, and the owners allow visits. It is one of the best-known stops in the region, especially in the late afternoon, when tours stop there to watch the sunset.
From the parking lot, a short sandy trail leads to the rock in a few minutes. If you like, you can walk a little farther and climb to higher points of the formation, with a wide view of the cerrado. At the end of the day, sunlight shines through the openings, and the scene draws plenty of people with cameras and phones.
The outing takes little physical effort, but the sand and loose rock call for care when climbing.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
30 minutes to 1 hour; for the sunset, arrive a little early to climb up and pick your spot.
Best time
In the late afternoon, to see the sunset and the light shining through the openings in the rock. If you prefer fewer people, go in the morning. In the dry season, from May to September, Jalapão's roads are usually better.
How to get there
It is in the countryside of Ponte Alta do Tocantins, on a farm by the Jalapão dirt road. You can drive close to the entrance, and from there a short sandy trail leads to the rock. Most visitors go with an agency, which fits the stop in at the end of the day.
Tip
Wear sneakers instead of flip-flops: the path has sand and loose rock, especially when climbing to the higher points.
A look at the place
Pedra Furada 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 Pedra Furada
Is there an entrance fee at Pedra Furada in Jalapão?
Sources differ: older guides say the farm owners allow free visits, while more recent reports mention a fee per person. Check with your agency or on arrival.
What is the best time to visit Pedra Furada?
Late afternoon, for the sunset. It is the most beautiful time and also the most crowded; in the morning there are usually fewer people.
Is the Pedra Furada trail difficult?
No. From the car to the rock it is a few minutes on a short sandy trail. Climbing to the higher points takes a little longer and calls for care with the loose rock.
Where is Pedra Furada in Jalapão?
In the countryside of Ponte Alta do Tocantins (TO), on a farm by the Jalapão dirt road. Do not confuse it with other Pedras Furadas in Brazil, such as the one in Serra da Capivara (PI).
Can you climb Pedra Furada?
Yes, there are paths to higher points of the formation, with views of the surrounding cerrado. Wear sneakers and be careful on the way down.