waterfall · Rio Rufino, SC
Cachoeira da Fábrica
The falls are about 3 km from downtown and reached by an easy walk of about 30 minutes. The name recalls a pulp mill that operated in the 1940s, whose ruins can still be seen.
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 da Fábrica
Cachoeira da Fábrica (waterfall) is a tall waterfall in Rio Rufino, in the Serra Catarinense, surrounded by rock walls and forest. It is in the São Judas Tadeu area, in the town's countryside.
The name comes from the site's history. In the 1940s, river water was diverted here to power a pulp mill. The mill no longer exists, but ruins of the old building can still be seen.
You get there on a dirt road and then a short trail, about 30 minutes, that follows the river. Along the way there are a few crossings with water at shin or knee height.
It is an easy outing for people used to walking, good for families with older children. It is not accessible for people with reduced mobility.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
Allow an hour and a half to two hours, including the round-trip walk and the stop at the waterfall.
Best time
In the morning, on dry days, from spring to fall; after rain the falls look great, but the river crossings get harder.
How to get there
The waterfall is in the São Judas Tadeu area, near downtown Rio Rufino. You get there on a dirt road from town and then on a hiking trail along the river.
Tip
Before you go, check with the Rio Rufino tourism office whether you need a guide. Wear shoes that can get wet.
A look at the place
Cachoeira da Fábrica 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 da Fábrica
Why is it called Cachoeira da Fábrica?
Because water was diverted here to power a pulp mill (fábrica) in the 1940s. Ruins of the old building can still be seen.
Where is Cachoeira da Fábrica?
In the São Judas Tadeu area, in the countryside of Rio Rufino, in the Serra Catarinense, reached by a dirt road from town.
Is the Cachoeira da Fábrica trail difficult?
It is short, about a 30-minute walk along the river, but it has a few crossings with water up to your knees.
Do I need a guide to visit Cachoeira da Fábrica?
Check with the Rio Rufino tourism office before you go to find out whether the visit must be guided.