Cachoeiras de Macacu

Cachoeiras de Macacu is a municipality in Rio de Janeiro surrounded by hills, forests, and several waterfalls scattered throughout the region. The landscape features natural rock formations and dense vegetation, with multiple cascades distributed across the terrain that offer different views and water environments.

The municipality grew around its abundant water resources that drew early settlers to the area. Forest protection became official in the early 2000s when major state parks were created to safeguard these lands.

The name comes from the waterfalls and monkeys found here in the forest. Locals celebrate their connection to the natural world through festivals and gatherings that mark the seasons and the rhythm of life in this region.

You can walk or hike to reach different waterfalls, with trails starting from the town center and spreading through the forest. It helps to ask locals for directions or find a guide, as the paths vary in difficulty and some areas are easier to access than others.

The region is home to two major protected nature areas that together safeguard a large portion of the Atlantic rainforest. These reserves serve as sanctuaries for rare wildlife and plant species found nowhere else.

Location: Rio de Janeiro

Elevation above the sea: 42 m

Shares border with: Nova Friburgo, Guapimirim, Rio Bonito, Teresópolis, Itaboraí, Silva Jardim, Tanguá

Website: http://cachoeirasdemacacu.rj.gov.br

GPS coordinates: -22.46278,-42.65278

Latest update: December 17, 2025 09:38