waterfall · Presidente Figueiredo, AM
Cachoeira do Santuário
A set of small falls at km 12 of the AM-240 highway, reached by a short trail over a wooden deck and rocks. Among the rocks beside one of the falls there is a small shrine, and the natural pool is used for swimming.
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 Santuário
Cachoeira do Santuário is in an ecological reserve beside the Estrada de Balbina, the AM-240 highway, in Presidente Figueiredo, the town known as the Land of Waterfalls, in the state of Amazonas. It is one of the most popular in the area and one of the best equipped for visitors.
The site has three waterfalls that tumble between rocks, roots and rapids in the middle of the forest. The name, meaning "sanctuary," comes from a small image of Saint Clare placed among the rocks next to the first fall, which many visitors look for when they arrive.
From the trailhead to the falls is a short walk of about ten minutes along a forest trail. Once there, the plan is to swim in the pools, sit on the rocks and spend the day. The reserve has a restaurant, chalets and swimming pools, which makes it a good option for families.
The area lies within the Geoparque Cachoeiras do Amazonas, proposed by the Geological Survey of Brazil, which cites the waterfall as an example of a landscape shaped by water erosion.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
Allow half a day or a full day if you want to have lunch there and enjoy the pools at a relaxed pace.
Best time
In the morning on a weekday, when there are fewer people; on weekends and holidays the reserve tends to be crowded. In the rainy season the falls carry more water.
How to get there
It is at km 12 of the AM-240 highway, the Estrada de Balbina, which runs from the town of Presidente Figueiredo toward Vila de Balbina. From the reserve entrance, a short trail leads on foot to the falls.
Tip
There is an entrance fee; check prices and hours directly with the reserve before you go. Wear shoes that grip well on wet rocks.
A look at the place
Cachoeira do Santuário 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 Santuário
Where is Cachoeira do Santuário?
At km 12 of the AM-240 highway, the Estrada de Balbina, in Presidente Figueiredo (AM).
Is there an entrance fee for Cachoeira do Santuário?
Yes, there is an entrance fee. Check prices and hours with the reserve before you go.
Do I need to hike to reach the waterfall?
Yes, but it is short: about a ten-minute walk through the forest.
Why is it called Cachoeira do Santuário?
Because of a small image of Saint Clare placed among the rocks next to the first fall ("santuário" means "shrine").
Does Cachoeira do Santuário have facilities?
Yes. The reserve has a restaurant, chalets and swimming pools, as well as the trail to the three falls.