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Waterfall · Aiuruoca, MG
Garcias Waterfall
A roughly 30-meter drop in Vale dos Garcias, about 15 km from Aiuruoca's center, with a transparent pool up to 5 meters deep at the foot of Serra do Papagaio.
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 Garcias Waterfall
Cachoeira dos Garcias is in Vale dos Garcias, about 15 km from Aiuruoca's center, at the foot of Serra do Papagaio. It is formed by the meeting of two mountain streams and falls in a free drop of about 30 meters into a transparent pool that reaches around 5 meters in depth.
Access is via a staircase that combines wood, stones and natural steps, with a handrail, from the parking area above. Around the pool there are rocks to rest and sunbathe.
Vale dos Garcias is also one of the starting points of the trail to Pico do Papagaio, and many finish the traverse of the range with a swim in the waterfall. From the top of the peak, on clear days, you can see the drop far below.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
2 to 3 hours, including a swim in the pool.
Best time
On hot days, from October to March, when the fall usually has more water and the swim is more pleasant. From April to September the road is firmer and the water colder.
How to get there
From Aiuruoca, follow about 15 km on a dirt road to Vale dos Garcias, following the signs. From the parking area, descend the staircase to the waterfall.
Tip
The descent down the stairway is short, but the return is all uphill: bring water. Wear shoes with good grip on the rocks and check whether the access area charges an entrance fee.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Garcias Waterfall
What is the height of Cachoeira dos Garcias?
About 30 meters of free fall, over a pool up to roughly 5 meters deep.
How far is Cachoeira dos Garcias from Aiuruoca?
About 15 km from the town centre, by dirt road, in Vale dos Garcias.
Can you swim at Cachoeira dos Garcias?
Yes. The pool at the base of the falls is wide and has clear water; it is deep in much of it, so enter with caution.