waterfall · Alfredo Chaves, ES
Cachoeira de Matilde
A tall waterfall in the Atlantic Forest in the district of Matilde, with a pool and visitor facilities. The district also has a historic railroad viaduct and roadside cafés.
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 de Matilde
Cachoeira de Matilde (waterfall) is the signature sight of Alfredo Chaves, in southern Espírito Santo. It is in the district of Matilde, in the Atlantic Forest, and is said to be the highest free-falling waterfall in the state. Its official name is Cachoeira Engenheiro Reeve, but almost everyone knows it by the name of the district.
The water plunges off a rock wall surrounded by dense forest and forms a pool far below. The waterfall is for viewing, not swimming: swimming is not allowed.
Right at the entrance there is a viewpoint overlooking the valley and the fall. From there, a staircase leads to a path with railings that gets close to the waterfall. The area has a snack bar with restrooms and is also used for rappelling and climbing, with local operators.
The climb back up the stairs takes some effort, but the entrance viewpoint already gives a good view of the waterfall if you do not want to go down. Matilde also has the old railroad station and the Túnel Encantado (tunnel), which are usually part of the same outing.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
One to two hours for the viewpoint, the walk down to the waterfall and back.
Best time
In summer, the rainy season, the fall is fuller; choose a dry day and go in the morning, when the stairs are less slippery and the heat is still mild.
How to get there
It is in the district of Matilde, about 18 km from the town of Alfredo Chaves, beside the state highway that runs through the district. From Vitória, the most common route is the BR-101 to the Alfredo Chaves area, then on to Matilde by paved road.
Tip
Wear sneakers: the staircase down to the waterfall is long and can get wet from the spray. Bring cash or a card, because there is an entrance fee.
A look at the place
Cachoeira de Matilde 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 de Matilde
Is there an entrance fee for Cachoeira de Matilde?
Yes, there is an entrance fee, waived for registered residents. Check prices and hours with the site management before you go.
Can you swim at Cachoeira de Matilde?
No. Swimming is not allowed; the waterfall is for viewing from the viewpoint and from the path that leads close to the fall.
How far is Cachoeira de Matilde from downtown Alfredo Chaves?
About 18 km, in the district of Matilde, with access by paved road.
Is it hard to get to the waterfall?
There is no long trail, but the staircase between the viewpoint and the waterfall is long and tiring on the way up. If you do not want to go down, you can see the fall from the entrance viewpoint.
What is the official name of Cachoeira de Matilde?
Cachoeira Engenheiro Reeve. The name Matilde comes from the district where it is located.