waterfall · Presidente Figueiredo, AM
Cachoeira da Porteira
A sandstone rock shelf about 250 meters long at the foot of a slope, cut by small falls and stretches of gentle current. It is at km 13 of the AM-240 highway and is one of the geosites of the Geoparque Cachoeiras do Amazonas.
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 Porteira
Cachoeira da Porteira is beside the Estrada de Balbina, the AM-240 highway, in Presidente Figueiredo, in the state of Amazonas. It is a wide area of rocks, small falls and natural pools, popular for swimming, picnics and, above all, camping.
The site is one of the geosites of the proposed Geoparque Cachoeiras do Amazonas, by the Geological Survey of Brazil. The rocks show tilted layers of sandstone that, according to the survey, are remains of large dunes from a storm-battered beach of the Paleozoic era. On the rocks you can see grooves running in a single direction, a sign that the water once flowed along a different path.
Getting to the water is easy, with no long trail. The water runs between the rocks, with stronger stretches and calmer ones, and there are pools to cool off in. The area has space for camping, tables, restrooms and trash bins.
It is a good stop to combine with Cachoeira do Santuário, which is very close, on the same road.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
From two hours to half a day for swimming and a picnic; campers stay overnight.
Best time
Early in the morning, especially on weekends, when it gets crowded. In the rainy season the falls carry more water.
How to get there
It is at km 13 of the AM-240 highway, the Estrada de Balbina, which links the town of Presidente Figueiredo to Vila de Balbina, just past Cachoeira do Santuário (km 12).
Tip
There is an entrance fee, with a different rate for campers; check before you go. On mossy rocks, walk in sturdy shoes.
A look at the place
Cachoeira da Porteira 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 Porteira
Where is Cachoeira da Porteira?
At km 13 of the AM-240 highway, the Estrada de Balbina, in Presidente Figueiredo (AM).
Is there an entrance fee for Cachoeira da Porteira?
Yes, there is an entrance fee, with a different rate for campers. Check before you go.
Can you camp at Cachoeira da Porteira?
Yes. The site has a camping area, tables, restrooms and trash bins.
Do I need to hike to get there?
No long hike is needed: getting to the water is easy.
Is Cachoeira da Porteira part of the geopark?
Yes, it is one of the geosites of the proposed Geoparque Cachoeiras do Amazonas, by the Geological Survey of Brazil, because of its sandstone layers from an ancient Paleozoic beach.