canyon · Painel, SC
Garganta do Caveiras
A narrow gorge carved by the Rio Caveiras on Fazenda Morro Chato, on the border with Lages, with a waterfall between rock walls. Access is only on foot or on horseback, on a tour guided by a local ecotourism agency.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Garganta do Caveiras
Garganta do Caveiras (gorge) is a stretch where the Rio Caveiras squeezes between rock walls, forming a narrow canyon with a waterfall. It is on Fazenda Morro Chato, in the countryside of Painel, on the border with Lages, in the Serra Catarinense.
It is one of the best-known natural attractions in the town. The site has few facilities and keeps the region's countryside feel: pasture, araucaria forest and the river set into the rock.
Access is only on foot or on horseback. Visits are organized with a local ecotourism agency, which leads the group across the property to the edge of the gorge and the waterfall.
The outing calls for a willingness to walk on uneven ground, with climbs, rocks and damp stretches. It is not recommended for people with limited mobility.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
Allow half a day for the outing, counting the trip across the farm.
Best time
From spring to fall, on dry days and in the morning, when the trail is firmer and the light reaches better between the rock walls; after heavy rain the trail gets slippery and the river runs higher.
How to get there
It is on Fazenda Morro Chato, in the countryside of Painel, on the border with Lages. There is no open access: the outing is booked with a local ecotourism agency, which tells you the meeting point.
Tip
Book in advance and wear hiking shoes with good grip, layered clothing and a rain jacket: the weather changes quickly in the mountains.
A look at the place
Garganta do Caveiras 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 Garganta do Caveiras
Where is Garganta do Caveiras?
On Fazenda Morro Chato, in the countryside of Painel (SC), on the border with Lages, in the Serra Catarinense.
Can I visit Garganta do Caveiras on my own?
No. The outing is booked with a local ecotourism agency, which leads the group across the property.
How do you get to Garganta do Caveiras?
Only on foot or on horseback, over uneven ground, with climbs, rocks and damp stretches.
What can you see at Garganta do Caveiras?
The Rio Caveiras squeezing between rock walls, forming a narrow canyon with a waterfall.
When is the best time to visit Garganta do Caveiras?
From spring to fall, on dry days. After heavy rain the trail gets slippery and the river rises.