Waterfalls in Brazil: Iguaçu, Chapada Diamantina, hot springs

The Iguaçu Waterfalls form an interconnected system of 275 individual falls extending nearly 2 miles (3 kilometers) along the Iguaçu River. These cascades constitute one of the world's largest waterfall systems and represent one of Brazil's most significant natural water features. The river divides into numerous separate drops that collectively carry an average flow of approximately 62,000 cubic feet per second (1,750 cubic meters per second).

This waterfall lies at the end of a 1.2-mile (2-kilometer) canyon where visitors swim between stone corridors.

The Cachoeira da Fumaça stands at 380 meters (1,250 feet) tall, making it one of the tallest waterfalls in Brazil. This waterfall is located in Chapada Diamantina National Park and plunges over a cliff face, with the water often turning to mist in strong winds before reaching the ground below. Access is available via two different hiking trails that lead to either the top or bottom of the falls, depending on the route chosen. This formation contributes to the diverse landscape of Chapada Diamantina, a region known for its numerous waterfalls and geological features.

This 100-foot (30-meter) waterfall in Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park forms a natural pool with blue water. Cachoeira Santa Bárbara sits in a region with numerous waterfalls and thermal springs that are part of Brazil's varied landscapes. The pool invites swimming, while surrounding vegetation frames the waterfall. Access follows trails through the park's Cerrado landscape, where several other waterfalls are located. The consistent water flow feeds the pool at the base of the cascade throughout the year.

The Catarata dos Couros extends across several tiers and features a marked trail leading directly to the waterfalls. This multi-tiered cascade is located in the Chapada dos Veadeiros region and is among the many waterfalls that characterize Brazil's diverse landscapes. The path provides visitors with access to the different levels of the falls.

Cachoeira Casca d'Anta is a 610-foot (186-meter) waterfall in Serra da Canastra National Park that marks the source of the São Francisco River. The water drops from the highlands of Serra da Canastra into the depths below, forming the starting point of one of Brazil's major river systems. The waterfall is located in the western section of the park and can be reached by hiking trails. Water volume varies by season, with the rainy period from October to March bringing the greatest flow.

The Boca da Onça drops 156 meters (512 feet) into a canyon, forming one of the tallest waterfalls in the Bonito region. Access follows a marked trail with ropes installed at steep sections for support. The hike passes through gallery forest with rock formations along the route. Water collects in a natural pool at the base of the canyon that can be used for swimming. The waterfall is located within a private nature reserve that includes several smaller cascades and bathing areas.

Poço Azul is a natural pool in a limestone cave with 15 feet (5 meters) of depth and mineral-rich water. This formation in Chapada das Mesas complements the collection of Brazilian waterfalls and thermal springs with an underground water system. The pool allows observations of geological structures beneath the surface.

This waterfall cascade in Parque Nacional de Itatiaia falls 40 meters (130 feet) over dark granite rocks. The water forms a white curtain against the surrounding Atlantic rainforest. Cachoeira Véu da Noiva is among the waterfalls in Brazilian mountain regions characterized by their drop height and volcanic rock formations. The park is located in the southeastern highlands and contains several waterways flowing down from the peaks of Serra da Mantiqueira.

The Cachoeira Santo Izidro falls 164 feet (50 meters) over multiple rock ledges in Serra da Bocaina National Park. This multi-tiered waterfall integrates into the park's mountainous terrain, which contains numerous other waterfalls and springs. The water forms natural pools between the rock formations as it descends.

This natural freshwater basin contains mineral-rich water with a constant temperature of 82 degrees Fahrenheit (28 degrees Celsius). Lagoa Azul offers year-round swimming in a geological formation fed by underground springs, forming part of Brazil's varied waterscape that includes thermal springs and natural pools.

This cascade drops 273 meters (896 feet) over three levels and forms a natural pool at its base among granite rocks. Cachoeira do Tabuleiro is located in the Serra do Espinhaço and ranks among the highest waterfalls in Brazil. Water flows year-round over the rock face, with volume increasing notably during the rainy season from November to March. Access is via a hiking trail through the mountain landscape of the region.

This waterfall drops 246 feet (75 meters) and sits in São Paulo state, surrounded by dense vegetation. Cachoeira do Saltão is among the many Brazilian waterfalls that feature varying heights and natural settings. The water falls into a natural pool framed by rocks and tropical plant life. The waterfall is located in the Brotas region, known for its waterfalls and outdoor activities. The drop of 246 feet (75 meters) makes it one of the taller waterfalls in the area.

The Poço Encantado is a natural water basin formed in limestone rock within the Chapada das Mesas region. The water displays blue tones and is surrounded by Brazilian forest vegetation. This site adds to the variety of natural water features found across Brazil, which include waterfalls such as the 1,247-foot (380-meter) Cachoeira da Fumaça and thermal springs.

This 131-foot (40-meter) cascade in Rio Grande do Sul state plunges over granite cliffs and collects in a pool at its base. Cachoeira Caracol sits in a forested region of southern Brazil, where waters from the Rio Caracol drop nearly vertically down a precipice. The formation is surrounded by subtropical vegetation and displays the volcanic and sedimentary rock layers of the region. A viewpoint provides direct views of the falls, while a trail with approximately 730 steps descends to the pool at the base of the cascade.

The Cachoeira do Formiga in the Jalapão region is a waterfall with green water flowing through a landscape of sandstone and tropical vegetation. The water cascades over rock formations into a natural pool. The surrounding area consists of sandstone layers shaped by erosion. The green color of the water results from minerals and algae in the rock.

These thermal springs in Ibirá offer natural mineral water from underground sources reaching a constant temperature of 97°F (36°C). The facility features multiple thermal pools along with medical installations for therapeutic treatment. The mineral-rich water has been used for its healing properties for decades and attracts visitors seeking treatment for various ailments. The complex is located in the São Paulo region and forms part of Brazil's landscape of natural water resources and geothermal formations.

The Salto São Francisco is a vertical waterfall that drops 643 feet (196 meters) over granite cliffs within the Atlantic rainforest. This waterfall is located in the Guarapuava region and forms part of Brazil's network of waterfalls and natural water features. The fall height equals approximately half the height of the Empire State Building. Water flows year-round over the cliffs, with flow rates varying by season. The surrounding Atlantic rainforest vegetation frames the waterfall with dense greenery.

This 35-foot (11-meter) waterfall in Tijuca National Park flows over granite rocks surrounded by Atlantic rainforest. Cascatinha Taunay sits within one of the world's largest urban forest areas and can be reached via hiking trails from the park's main entrance. The water forms a natural pool at the base of the falls. The waterfall was named after French painter Nicolas-Antoine Taunay, who worked in Brazil during the 19th century.