Cascatinha Taunay
Cascatinha Taunay is a waterfall set in the forested hills above Rio de Janeiro, with water cascading over rock formations into a natural pool. Dense vegetation surrounds the site, creating a green setting within the city's mountainous areas.
The waterfall was named after a naturalist who mapped and documented the mountain regions of Rio de Janeiro in the 19th century. The area later became a popular destination for those seeking nature close to the city.
The name honors a 19th-century German naturalist who explored the region. Today, the waterfall serves as a place where visitors come to experience nature and take photographs near Rio de Janeiro.
The site sits on a forested slope and is reached by hiking trails from various starting points. Good footwear and water are essential, as the paths can be steep and the forest area remains shaded and damp.
Despite being close to a major city, this waterfall remains relatively unknown and less crowded than other tourist spots in Rio. Its location makes it a hidden gem for visitors seeking quiet nature without long travel times.
Location: Rio de Janeiro
Location: Região Metropolitana do Rio de Janeiro
Address: Cascatinha Taunay - Alto da Boa Vista, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 20531, Brazil
GPS coordinates: -22.95854,-43.27748
Latest update: December 6, 2025 19:02
Brazil has numerous waterfalls and hot springs across its varied landscapes. At Iguaçu, water flows over 275 individual falls. The Chapada Diamantina region contains several waterfalls, including the 1,247-foot (380-meter) Cachoeira da Fumaça. Serra da Canastra is home to the 610-foot (186-meter) Casca d'Anta waterfall. Natural pools with clear water are found at Poço Azul and Lagoa Azul. The thermal springs at Ibirá provide mineral water at constant temperature. These locations are distributed across different regions of Brazil, from the southern Serra Gaúcha with Caracol cascade to the tablelands of Jalapão in the north. The waterfalls vary in height and volume. Some plunge over steep rock faces, while others flow through narrow canyons. Several of these sites are located in national parks or protected areas.
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