waterfall · Sumidouro, RJ
Cascata Conde d'Eu
Formed by the Rio Paquequer, it is considered the tallest free-falling waterfall in the state, with an estimated height of 127 to 160 meters. Access is by a dirt road and an easy trail of less than 2 kilometers.
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 Cascata Conde d'Eu
The Cascata Conde d'Eu is a large waterfall on the Rio Paquequer, in the countryside of Sumidouro, in the Rio de Janeiro mountain region. It is considered the tallest free-falling waterfall in the state: the water plunges from a tall, almost vertical rock wall into a pool surrounded by rocks.
The name honors the Conde d'Eu (Count of Eu), husband of Princess Isabel. According to local accounts, the waterfall was named in 1877, during a visit by the imperial entourage to the region.
From the top of the valley you can see the entire fall, a white ribbon in the middle of the forest. Below, near the pool, the roar and the mist take over, and on sunny days rainbows often appear. Downriver, the water runs between large rocks and forms shallower stretches.
The outing is easy and suits almost everyone: you can drive very close and the walk to the base is short, over rock and dirt. There is no bar or restaurant on site, so bring water and a snack and take your trash back with you.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
Allow one to two hours to see the waterfall from above and below and rest near the pool.
Best time
In the rainy months, in summer, the falls carry more water; in winter, when it is drier, the dirt road is usually in better condition. Avoid going right after storms, when the water is muddy and strong.
How to get there
It is in the countryside of Sumidouro, on the Rio Paquequer, toward the district of Dona Mariana. From downtown, take the RJ-148 and then a rough dirt road to the area used for parking; from there a short trail leads to the base of the falls.
Tip
There is no cell signal in the area: download the map before you leave and choose a higher-clearance car. Swim only in the pool and with great care, away from the falls.
A look at the place
Cascata Conde d'Eu 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 Cascata Conde d'Eu
How tall is the Cascata Conde d'Eu?
Sources vary widely on the measurement. What everyone agrees on is that it is considered the tallest free-falling waterfall in the state of Rio de Janeiro.
Do I need to hike a long trail to get there?
No. You can drive close to the waterfall, and the walk to the base is short and easy.
Can you swim at the Cascata Conde d'Eu?
There is a pool at the base, but the force of the water is strong. If you go in, stay away from the falls and avoid the days after heavy rain.
Is the road to the waterfall paved?
Not all of it. The final stretch is dirt and usually rough; a higher-clearance car helps.
Are there facilities on site?
There is no bar or restaurant. Bring water and a snack and take your trash back with you.