Santa Bárbara Waterfall
Santa Bárbara Waterfall: Brazil’s Most Stunning Blue Waterfall in the Heart of Chapada dos Veadeiros
The Santa Bárbara Waterfall, located in Cavalcante (GO), is one of the most stunning ecotourism destinations in Brazil. Its turquoise-blue pool with crystal-clear water, surrounded by native Cerrado vegetation, makes this natural gem inside the Kalunga Quilombola Community a must-see for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
In this complete guide, you'll find out how to get there, trail details, tips to make the most of your visit, nearby attractions, local history, and fun facts — everything you need to plan your trip to this breathtaking spot in the Brazilian wilderness.
Image credit: Rafael Defavari, resized to 1600x1067 by Brazil Eco Trails, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.
Where Is the Santa Bárbara Waterfall?
The waterfall is located in the Kalunga Community of Engenho II, about 30 km from the town of Cavalcante, in the northern region of Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park, in Goiás State.
Distances from major cities:
- Brasília: 340 km
- Goiânia: 545 km
- Palmas: 610 km
If you’re staying in Alto Paraíso de Goiás or the Vila de São Jorge — both popular bases in the Chapada — be prepared to drive over 120 km to reach Cavalcante. The best plan is to stay at least one night in Cavalcante to enjoy your visit without rushing.
How to Get to the Santa Bárbara Waterfall
✈️ By Plane
The nearest airport is Brasília International Airport (BSB). From there, you can:
- Rent a car and drive to Cavalcante (the most flexible option)
- Book a private transfer or tour
- Take a bus to Alto Paraíso, then arrange transport to Cavalcante (less practical)
🚗 By Car
Most common route:
Brasília → BR-010 → Teresina de Goiás → GO-241 → Cavalcante
The road is paved up to Cavalcante. From there, a dirt road leads to the Kalunga Community — usually in good condition during the dry season.
Image credit: Joel Alencar resized to 1600x1067 by Brazil Eco Trails
How to Visit Santa Bárbara Waterfall
✅ Local Guide Is Required
Hiring a local guide from the Kalunga Community is mandatory and costs about R$ 200 per group (up to 6 people). Guides can be booked at the Tourist Center (CAT) in Cavalcante.
Entrance Ticket
- Price: R$ 55 per person
- Booking: Online only, with scheduled time slots
- Opening hours: 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM
- Stay limit: 1 hour per group at the waterfall
- Capacity: 40 people per time slot
Getting to the Trail
After arriving at the Kalunga Community, you can:
- Walk about 3 km to the trailhead
- Or take a "pau de arara" (shared 4x4 truck) for R$ 10 each way
How Is the Hike to Santa Bárbara?
The hike is easy and suitable for all ages, with flat terrain and beautiful scenery.
- Trail distance: 1.5 km (one way)
- Hiking time: around 30 minutes
- Terrain: mostly flat, some sandy or rocky parts
- Difficulty level: low, perfect for beginners
What to Pack for the Trail
Essentials for a smooth and safe hike:
- Sturdy shoes or sandals with grip (no flip-flops)
- Sunscreen and insect repellent
- Hat or cap
- Plenty of water (at least 1 liter per person)
- Snacks or light food
- Camera or phone with waterproof protection
- Rain jacket (especially during the rainy season)
- Trash bag — leave no trace!
- Your online booking confirmation
Where to Stay Near Santa Bárbara Waterfall
The best place to stay is Cavalcante, the closest town to the waterfall. It offers cozy guesthouses, hostels, and vacation rentals with local hospitality.
Other options:
- Alto Paraíso de Goiás – more tourist infrastructure
- Vila de São Jorge – mystical vibe and close to Chapada’s park trails
Tip: Stay 2 nights in Cavalcante to enjoy Santa Bárbara stress-free, then head to São Jorge or Alto Paraíso for the rest of your Chapada adventure.
Essential Tips for Your Visit
- Bring cash, as not all places accept cards
- Keep your gas tank full – no gas stations between Cavalcante and the Kalunga community
- Share a guide and transport with other travelers to save money
- Book lunch at the Kalunga Community – delicious homemade food cooked on a wood stove
- Use repellent, especially in the rainy season
- Avoid visiting on cloudy or rainy days – the water appears less vibrant
- Download offline maps – cell signal is limited in remote areas
Attractions Near Santa Bárbara Waterfall
3 Waterfalls Circuit
Combine Santa Bárbara with two other amazing falls on the same day:
- Capivara Waterfall – great swimming spot
- Candaru Waterfall – ideal for longer hikes and adventure seekers
Rio da Prata Complex
For a more off-the-beaten-path experience, explore this complex of eight natural attractions:
- Pratinha
- 3 Marias
- Cortina
- Escondida
- Passador
- Rei do Prata
- Rainha do Prata
- Esmeralda
Perfect for those with extra time and a spirit for hidden gems!
Maquiné Farm
A cultural and tasty stop: visit this local farm to see the traditional making of rapadura (sugarcane candy), cachaça (sugarcane liquor), and cheeses.
Historical Insight: Kalunga Resistance
Santa Bárbara Waterfall lies within the territory of the Kalunga Quilombola Community, one of the largest quilombola communities in Brazil. Descendants of enslaved Africans who escaped and settled in the region in the 18th century, the Kalunga people preserved their cultural identity, traditions, and way of life over generations.
Visiting the waterfall is also a way to honor the history and resilience of a community that continues to fight for recognition and protection of their ancestral lands.
Fun Fact: Why Is the Water So Blue?
The surreal turquoise hue of Santa Bárbara's water comes from a mix of mineral-rich rocks, a light-colored rocky bottom, and direct sunlight. The reflection of light during peak hours creates a magical, almost unreal effect — best seen between 11 AM and 2 PM.
Is It Worth Visiting Santa Bárbara Waterfall?
Absolutely! Santa Bárbara Waterfall is not just a beautiful spot — it's a magical experience. From the easy hike and the stunning natural colors to the cultural depth of the Kalunga community, this is a place that stays in your memory forever.
If you’re looking for a refreshing, unforgettable destination with breathtaking nature and rich heritage, Santa Bárbara is a must on your Chapada dos Veadeiros itinerary.
Image credit: Joel Alencar resized to 1600x1067 by Brazil Eco Trails
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