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The dive sites of Chapada Diamantina are true natural treasures, combining crystal clear waters, scenic beauty and unique biodiversity to offer divers and nature lovers an unrivalled experience.

Among the most popular sites are Poço Azul and Poço Encantado, known for their stunningly transparent waters where the light creates spectacular visual effects, especially at certain times of the year.

Other sites such as Rio Pratinha and Gruta da Pratinha offer dives surrounded by limestone formations, aquatic fauna and exuberant nature, allowing both swimming and snorkelling.

These dive sites are made even more special by their ecological richness and the feeling of a deep connection with the unspoilt nature of the Chapada.

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Gruta da Pratinha na Chapada Diamantina

Fazenda da Pratinha na Chapada Diamantina

Poço Azul na Chapada Diamantina

Mergulho na Gruta da Pratinha01:27

Mergulho no Poço Azul na chapada diamantina

Dive sites in Chapada Diamantina

1. Pratinha Cave
2. Pratinha River
3. Blue Fountain
4. Enchanted Well

1. Pratinha Cave

The Cave of Pratinha is one of the most enchanting attractions of the Chapada Diamantina, located at Fazenda Pratinha, near the municipality of Iraquara, Bahia.

With its crystal clear turquoise waters, the cave offers a unique diving and swimming experience, where you can observe rock formations, small fish and aquatic flora in a protected and fascinating environment.

As you enter the cave, the natural light creates a visual spectacle, highlighting the colour of the water and giving the environment a magical feel. Although it is possible to snorkel inside the cave, scuba diving is not allowed in order to protect the fauna and natural structure of the site.

The Pratinha Cave is part of the experience at Fazenda Pratinha, where visitors can also enjoy the Pratinha River and other activities such as zip-lining, kayaking and swimming areas, making this one of the most complete and sought-after destinations in the Chapada Diamantina.

2. Pratinha River

The River Pratinha is one of the most paradisiacal places in the Chapada Diamantina, located at Fazenda Pratinha, near the municipality of Iraquara, Bahia. Its crystal-clear, turquoise waters are ideal for swimming and snorkelling, where visitors can observe underwater flora and fauna in stunning surroundings.

One of the main attractions of the Pratinha River is the Pratinha Cave, where you can snorkel in a setting of unique limestone formations. There are also activities such as zip-lining, kayaking and relaxing swimming areas along the river.

Fazenda Pratinha also has infrastructure for visitors, including a restaurant and rest areas, making it the ideal place for a day of leisure and direct contact with nature.

3. Blue Fountain

One of the most famous sites, the Blue Well enchants with its crystal clear waters where you can see the submerged rock formation and immerse yourself in a unique floating experience. At certain times of the day, the sunlight creates a spectacle of blue colours.

Several passages form a kind of labyrinth leading to the underground lake. Several holes have been carved into the rock. Just below the wooden platform is a hole leading to another chamber. There are skeletons, including that of a giant sloth.

On the opposite shore, which is a larger area, you can find rock formations and small crustaceans.

4. Enchanted Well

Similar to Poço Azul, but deeper and with a striking blue colour, Poço Encantado has crystal clear waters that reveal submerged details in up to 60 metres of visibility.

The Poço Encantado (Enchanted Well) is one of the most breathtaking attractions of Chapada Diamantina, located in the municipality of Itaetê, Bahia.

Known for its incredibly clear, deep blue waters, the site offers underwater visibility of up to 60 metres. The water’s enchanting effect is enhanced between the months of April and September when the sun’s rays penetrate the cave, creating a band of light that illuminates the well and reveals impressive underwater details.

Although diving is forbidden to protect the local ecosystem, the Poço Encantado is a unique visual experience and a must see for anyone visiting the Chapada Diamantina. To reach it, you have to go down a short path with stairs.

Bahia.ws is the biggest tourist guide of Bahia and Salvador.

Written by Willy Sievert

Editor of Bahia.ws since its founding in 2009. Based in Salvador, he travels frequently across the Northeast and all of Brazil to keep the guides up to date. Learn more about Willy Sievert →

Published on 15/06/2013 · Updated on 02/07/2025

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