Tourism in Chapada Diamantina: Towns, Waterfalls and Trails

Chapada Diamantina Travel Guide

The Chapada Diamantina, in central Bahia, features mountain ranges, high waterfalls, dark rivers, caves, stone villages and footpaths that wind through the Chapada Diamantina National Park.

Pontos Turísticos da Chapada Diamantina na Bahia — Tourist Attractions in the Chapada Diamantina, Bahia

This guide to tourism in Chapada Diamantina organises destinations by theme, from base towns to natural attractions, so you can choose your itinerary according to the time you have available and the nature of your trip. For an overview, start with the complete guide to Chapada Diamantina.

Towns and villages in the Chapada Diamantina

Each town serves as a base for a range of attractions. Lençóis is the main gateway and the town with the widest choice of guesthouses, guides and tours.

From Palmeiras you can reach Vale do Capão, a peaceful village that is very popular with hikers.

Mucugê and Andaraí preserve the heritage of the diamond cycle, and it is near Andaraí that Igatu, a village of stone ruins, is situated.

Further south lie Rio de Contas, Piatã and Ibicoara, and to the north Iraquara and Morro do Chapéu. See also the list of the region’s main towns and villages.

Waterfalls and wells

The waterfalls are the symbol of the region. Among the best known are the Cachoeira da Fumaça and the Cachoeira do Buracão, and there are guides featuring the tallest and most beautiful waterfalls and the must-see waterfalls of the Chapada.

To swim in clear blue waters, visit the Poço Azul and the Poço Encantado, and for those who enjoy diving, the diving spots in the Chapada Diamantina.

Cachoeira da Fumaça na Chapada Diamantina — Fumaça Waterfall in the Chapada Diamantina

Trekking and hiking trails

The Chapada Diamantina is one of Brazil’s top trekking destinations. The guide to the most popular trails helps you choose your route, and trekking in the Pati Valley is the most famous trek.

Those with more time to spare can follow the 7-day route through the Chapada. For higher altitudes, there is the guide to the Picos das Almas, Itobira and Barbado.

Caves and caverns

The region also boasts one of the largest cave systems in the country. In Iraquara, known as the ‘city of caves’, it is well worth visiting the main caves in the municipality, such as the Gruta do Lapão.

The Torrinha Cave is notable for its variety of speleothems.

Gruta do Lapão na Chapada Diamantina — Lapão Cave in the Chapada Diamantina

Nature, fauna and flora

The topography, fauna and flora of the Chapada Diamantina vary considerably across the plateaus, valleys and rocky plains.

Typical species include orchids, evergreen plants, candombá and the birds of the region. For ecotourism in wetlands, see the Pantanal dos Marimbus.

History and culture

The settlement of the Chapada is linked to gold mining. To understand the context, read about the settlement of the Chapada Diamantina, the history of gold mining, the history of Lençóis and the history of Rio de Contas. The architectural style of the region and Vila do Ventura reflect the legacy of this period.

Garimpo na Chapada Diamantina — Gold panning in the Chapada Diamantina

How to plan your trip

The attractions are spread out, so the most practical approach is to choose one or two base towns and explore the area from there. Allow at least five days to see the main sights, and more time if your plans include trekking. To explore the Chapada within the state, consult the map of Bahia’s tourist regions and the tourist areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Chapada Diamantina and how do you get there?

The Chapada Diamantina is situated in the centre of Bahia, more than 400 km from Salvador.

The most common way to get there is by car or bus to Lençóis, the main base town, and then on to the other towns and attractions. See the guide to Lençóis.

When is the best time to visit the Chapada Diamantina?

Generally speaking, the driest period, from May to September, is best for hiking and for those who want to minimise the risk of rain. During the rainy season, rivers and waterfalls are fuller, but some trails and crossings may become more difficult. Check the weather forecast before setting off.

How many days does it take to explore the Chapada Diamantina?

In five days, you can visit the main attractions starting from Lençóis. If you want to include the Vale do Capão or a trek such as the one through the Vale do Pati, plan for seven to ten days. See the 7-day route through the Chapada.

What are the main attractions of the Chapada Diamantina?

Among the most popular attractions are the Fumaça Waterfall, the Poço Azul, the Poço Encantado, the Pati Valley, the Iraquara caves and the village of Igatu. Be sure to check out the must-see waterfalls in the Chapada as well.

Which town is the best place to stay in Chapada Diamantina?

It depends on your itinerary. Lençóis has more facilities and things to do; Vale do Capão is quieter and better suited to hiking; and Mucugê and Andaraí are close to historical attractions and Igatu. See the list of main towns and villages.

Do you need to hire a guide in Chapada Diamantina?

On many trails and in many caves, yes, and it is recommended for all long treks. The guides know the routes and the river conditions. Check the current rules for each attraction with your accommodation, the local guides’ association or the park’s management body.

What is the Pati Valley?

The Pati Valley is a valley within the Chapada Diamantina National Park, known for its multi-day trek on foot, with accommodation in local residents’ homes. See the guide to trekking in the Pati Valley.

Why is the region called Chapada Diamantina?

The name derives from the ‘chapadas’, which are flat-topped plateaus, and from the diamond mining that attracted settlers to the region from the 19th century onwards. Find out more in the history of diamond mining in the Chapada Diamantina.