
Cachoeira Grande Serra do Cipó
A stunning waterfall with an easy trail, perfect for swimming and enjoying nature's beauty in Serra do Cipó.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Perfect for swimming!

Cachoeira Grande Serra do Cipó
Best Time
Perfect for swimming!

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning waterfall with an easy trail, perfect for swimming and enjoying nature's beauty in Serra do Cipó.
"The waterfall is beautiful and has enough place to swim."

🥾 Wear grippy shoes
Rocks near the waterfall can be slippery; good footwear is essential for safety while swimming .
🧺 Pack a picnic
Bring your own food as it's a great place to spend the whole day. No BBQs or alcohol allowed .

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cachoeira Grande
Main waterfall area
Swim in the refreshing waters of this sizable waterfall, a perfect spot for a warm day.

Rio Cipó
River adjacent to the main waterfall
Find tranquility on the other side of the waterfall, where the calm Cipó River offers peaceful relaxation.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Entrance Fee & Value
Trail Accessibility & Conditions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear grippy shoes
Rocks near the waterfall can be slippery; good footwear is essential for safety while swimming.
🧺 Pack a picnic
Bring your own food as it's a great place to spend the whole day. No BBQs or alcohol allowed.
💰 Consider the fee
Entrance fee is around R$30-R$50. Weigh the cost against a full day of enjoyment.
🧘♀️ Explore the river
Don't miss the calmer Cipó River for a more peaceful experience away from the main falls.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear grippy shoes
Rocks near the waterfall can be slippery; good footwear is essential for safety while swimming.
🧺 Pack a picnic
Bring your own food as it's a great place to spend the whole day. No BBQs or alcohol allowed.
💰 Consider the fee
Entrance fee is around R$30-R$50. Weigh the cost against a full day of enjoyment.
🧘♀️ Explore the river
Don't miss the calmer Cipó River for a more peaceful experience away from the main falls.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Cachoeira Grande is praised for its beautiful waterfall and refreshing swimming opportunities, with an easy trail suitable for most visitors. While many enjoy the natural beauty and the option to relax by the calmer Rio Cipó, some find the entrance fee to be quite expensive. Concerns have also been raised about the consistency of on-site amenities like lifeguards.
"A lovely place. Swimming at the big waterfall was a lot of fun. Rocks we're a bit slippery but it was great on a warm day. Expensive but well maintained. That being said, we were told the price was because there was a lifeguard there to watch over us. We never saw him. I don't think there actually was one."
Ike Ichael
"This place is simply amazing!
The waterfall is beautiful and has enough place to swim. Personally I liked a lot the other side of the waterfall, the Cipó river. So calm and peaceful! You can enjoy the river literally by yourself.
To reach the big waterfall, you need to walk around 1km and the trail is very easy. Small kids and eldery people can do it easily. The entrance fee is 30 real but it is well deserved!"
Bo-sung Kim
"Great place to come to relax and have a day out with friends or family. The price is quite expensive R$30 each, so plan to spend the whole day. Bring your swimming gear as it's a good place to swim. Also bring a picnic but no BBQ's or alcohol."
T J
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cachoeira Grande is located within a private park in Serra do Cipó. You'll typically need a car to reach the entrance. From Belo Horizonte, it's about a 2-hour drive. Public transport options are limited, so driving or arranging a private transfer is recommended.
Yes, there is usually parking available at the entrance to the private park where Cachoeira Grande is located. It's advisable to arrive earlier in the day, especially on weekends or holidays, to secure a spot.
Absolutely! Cachoeira Grande is a popular day trip destination from Belo Horizonte. The drive is manageable, allowing you to spend several hours enjoying the waterfall and its surroundings before returning.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee can vary, but it's generally reported to be around R$30 to R$50 per person. Some visitors have noted it can feel expensive, while others find it justified for the maintained facilities.
Advance booking is usually not required for Cachoeira Grande, but it's always a good idea to check their official website or social media for any updates, especially during peak seasons or holidays.
Visitors are generally allowed to bring food for a picnic, but BBQs and alcohol are typically prohibited. Bags may be checked upon entry.
No, Cachoeira Grande is located on private property and requires a separate entrance fee, unlike the free access to some areas of the Serra do Cipó National Park.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The trail to Cachoeira Grande is approximately 1km long and is considered very easy, making it accessible for small children and elderly individuals.
Swimming is a popular activity, but the rocks around the waterfall can be slippery. It's recommended to wear appropriate footwear and exercise caution. Some reviews mention a lifeguard, but this has not always been observed.
While Cachoeira Grande is the main attraction, the area also offers access to the calmer waters of the Cipó River, which many visitors enjoy for a more peaceful experience.
The park is generally well-maintained. Facilities typically include parking and access to the waterfall and river areas. It's advisable to bring your own supplies as amenities might be limited.
Yes, Cachoeira Grande offers picturesque scenery perfect for photography. The waterfall and surrounding nature provide beautiful backdrops for memorable shots.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While some visitors suggest bringing a picnic, there might be limited food options available on-site. It's best to confirm current offerings or pack your own food and drinks.
No, BBQs are generally not permitted at Cachoeira Grande. Visitors are encouraged to bring pre-prepared food for their picnic.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a more relaxed family experience, consider spending time by the calmer waters of the Rio Cipó. It offers a safer and more peaceful environment for younger children to play or for the family to enjoy a picnic. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as on-site food options might be limited.
💰 Budget Travelers
To maximize value if you do choose to visit Cachoeira Grande, plan to spend the entire day there. Pack a substantial picnic to avoid purchasing food on-site, and make the most of the natural swimming and relaxation opportunities. This approach can help offset the entrance fee by providing a full day's worth of entertainment and enjoyment.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Entrance Fee
It's worth noting that the justification for the fee has sometimes been linked to the presence of a lifeguard. However, some visitors have reported not seeing a lifeguard during their visit, leading to questions about the value proposition. If you're on a tight budget, exploring the free areas of the Serra do Cipó National Park might be a more suitable option, as many visitors report these areas are also well-maintained and offer stunning natural beauty.
Experiencing the Waterfall Safely
While the main trail to the waterfall is described as easy and accessible for most, including children and the elderly, caution is advised once you reach the water's edge. The refreshing water is a major draw, especially on warm days, but always prioritize safety. If you're unsure about the conditions or have concerns, it's best to observe the area carefully before entering the water. Some reviews mention the presence of a lifeguard, but this isn't always consistent, so self-reliance for safety is important.
Beyond the Main Falls: The Tranquil Rio Cipó
Travelers who've ventured to the Cipó River side often describe it as a place where you can truly relax and feel like you have the area to yourself. It's perfect for a quiet picnic, gentle wading, or simply soaking in the tranquil atmosphere. If you're visiting Cachoeira Grande, make sure to allocate some time to discover the serene beauty of the Rio Cipó – it's a hidden gem that many find just as rewarding as the main waterfall.


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