Caracol Falls, Natural waterfall in Canela, Brazil

Caracol Falls is a 130-metre waterfall on the Caracol River, about 7 km from Canela in Caracol State Park. It drops over basalt cliffs of the Serra Geral range into the Vale da Lageana. The photograph shows two parallel white columns of water falling freely from a flat, horizontal lip into a dark pool, with a sheer tan and ochre cliff face behind.

Caracol Falls formed on the basalt rocks of the Serra Geral formation, where the Caracol River cuts through the cliffs. The falls consist of two cascades: the upper one drops about 100 metres before the second, which falls over an overhanging ledge. The surrounding area lies between the araucaria pine forest of the Brazilian Highlands and the Atlantic Forest.

The falls represent a meeting point between two distinct ecosystems: the Brazilian Plateau pine forests and the Atlantic Forest of the southern coast.

There are multiple ways to view the waterfall: from above via an observation tower with an elevator or by aerial cable car. You can also descend a long series of steps to reach the base, so sturdy footwear is important.

The falls are fed by the Caracol River and consist of two cascades: an upper drop about 100 m before the second, which pours over an overhanging basalt ledge of the Serra Geral formation. The 927-step trail to the base is maintained by Projeto Lobo-Guará.