river · Guapimirim, RJ
Poço da Ponte Velha
A calm-water pool beside the ruins of a bridge on an old royal road, at the headquarters of the Parque Nacional da Serra dos Órgãos. Access is easy, with parking a few meters away.
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 Poço da Ponte Velha
The Poço da Ponte Velha is a calm stretch of the Rio Soberbo at the Guapimirim headquarters of the Parque Nacional da Serra dos Órgãos, known as Parnaso. It lies beside the ruined stone pillars of an old bridge, which give the place its name.
The river runs wide and shallow between large rounded boulders, with dense forest on both sides. The water is clear, with a rocky bottom, and forms still pools good for sitting in or cooling off.
It is the easiest pool to reach at the headquarters: the walk from the parking lot is short and easy. That is why it tends to attract families with children, older visitors and anyone who does not want to hike.
On hot days, especially summer weekends, it gets crowded. If you prefer peace and quiet, you can continue to Poço Verde and Poço da Preguiça on the same park's trails.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
One to two hours is enough to swim, relax on the rocks and see the bridge ruins.
Best time
On hot days, from late morning to mid-afternoon, when the sun shines on the river; on weekdays the pool is quieter.
How to get there
It is at the Guapimirim headquarters of Parnaso, with its entrance on the BR-116 (Rodovia Santos Dumont), on the climb to Teresópolis. The parking lot is a few meters from the river.
Tip
Bring shoes that can get wet, because the rocks on the bottom are slippery, and get out of the water if heavy rain starts in the mountains.
A look at the place
Poço da Ponte Velha 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 Poço da Ponte Velha
Is there an entrance fee at the Poço da Ponte Velha?
Yes. The pool is inside the Parque Nacional da Serra dos Órgãos, at the Guapimirim headquarters, and there is a park admission fee. Check prices and hours on the park's official channels.
Do I need to hike to get to the Poço da Ponte Velha?
Hardly at all. The parking lot is a few meters from the river and the path is short and easy.
Is the Poço da Ponte Velha good for kids?
Yes, the water is calm and there are shallow parts. Even so, keep a close eye on children, because the rocks are slippery and there are no lifeguards.
Why is it called Poço da Ponte Velha?
Because of the ruined stone pillars of an old bridge (ponte velha) at the edge of the pool.
What is the difference between the Poço da Ponte Velha and Poço Verde?
The Poço da Ponte Velha is almost immediately accessible and has calmer water. Poço Verde requires a walk along the trail and has a waterfall and deeper stretches.