waterfall · São Francisco de Paula, RS
Parque das Oito Cachoeiras
A preserved private area about 5 kilometers from the center, it has eight waterfalls spread along four trails of varying difficulty. The tallest, the Cascata da Ronda, is about 100 meters high.
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 Parque das Oito Cachoeiras
The Parque das Oito Cachoeiras is a private area of native forest a few kilometers from the center of São Francisco de Paula, in the Campos de Cima da Serra highlands, near Lago São Bernardo. The name (Eight Waterfalls Park) comes from the eight falls hidden in the park's valleys.
The waterfalls are reached by four signposted trails, each leading to two falls. The tallest is the Cascata da Ronda, about 100 meters high. Among the others are the Gêmeas Gigantes, Remanso, Escondida, Neblina, Pilões, Ravina and Quatrilho.
The trails vary widely in difficulty. Some falls are a short walk from the main building; others take hours of hiking, steep climbs, river crossings and slippery stretches. Doing them all in one day is tough.
It's an outing for those who enjoy hiking in the woods and don't mind getting wet. In the calmer pools you can cool off in summer. The park has a pousada, a campground and a snack bar, so you can spend the night and do the trails at a relaxed pace.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
From two hours, for the nearest falls, to a full day if you want to do the longer trails.
Best time
In summer, in the morning, so you have time to get back in daylight and enjoy the pools; avoid rainy days, when the trails get slippery and the rivers rise.
How to get there
It's a few kilometers from the center of São Francisco de Paula, on the way to Lago São Bernardo; access is by car, up a steep road to the entrance.
Tip
Wear shoes with good grip that can get wet, bring water and a snack, and ask at the entrance which trail suits your fitness and the time you have.
A look at the place
Parque das Oito Cachoeiras 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 Parque das Oito Cachoeiras
Is there an entrance fee for the Parque das Oito Cachoeiras?
Yes. It's a private area and there's an entrance fee; check rates and hours directly with the park.
What's the tallest waterfall in the park?
The Cascata da Ronda, about 100 meters high. The trail to it is narrow and has steep climbs.
Can I see all eight waterfalls in one day?
It's possible if you're fit, but it's tiring: there are four trails, some long and difficult. If you want to see everything at a relaxed pace, you can stay overnight at the park's pousada or campground.
Can you swim in the waterfalls?
In some pools, yes, with care. The Cascata da Ronda is not suitable for swimming. Stay out of the water on rainy days.
How long does the visit take?
The falls closest to the main building take a few hours; the longer trails take the whole day.