Hiking to Sossego Waterfall

Chapada Diamantina National Park

Hidden deep within the Chapada Diamantina National Park, the Sossego Waterfall is one of the region’s most rewarding hikes. With natural pools, shaded forest paths, and sweeping valley views, this trail is a must for adventurers seeking both challenge and beauty.

How to Get There

The hike begins in Lençóis, the main gateway to Chapada Diamantina and the hub for local tourism services.

• From Salvador: Lençóis lies 420 km from the Bahian capital.

• By car: Take the BR-242 highway.

• By bus: Rápido Federal operates the most frequent routes into Lençóis. EMTRAM also runs occasional buses.

• From the airport: The Tanquinho/Lençóis Airport is 24 km away.

Finding the trailhead:

From Lençóis town center, walk up the main street and turn left at the bandstand square. Continue straight, and you’ll reach the well-known starting point (the same as the Ribeirão do Meio trail).

The Trail

• Distance: ~8 km round trip

• Difficulty: Moderate for experienced hikers; Moderate to Difficult for beginners

• Duration: 3–4 hours each way

• Best time to visit: Dry season (May–October)

At the trailhead, you’ll find a small parking lot and a couple of local vendors. Parking on the street is also an option if space is available.

First Stretch

Follow the dirt road to the right until its end, where the trail begins beside a gate. The path climbs gently through shaded forest before leveling out into a clearing with panoramic views of the São José River Valley and the Ribeirão Valley.

Key Fork (1.8 km)

• Right: Trail to Sossego Waterfall

• Left: Descent to Ribeirão do Meio (a popular swimming spot).

  If you plan to visit both waterfalls in one day, use the Ribeirão path on your way back — it’s just 10 minutes from the fork.

Midway Section

After the fork, the trail descends slightly, crossing a clear-water stream with small pools before approaching the Ribeirão River. Remnants of old mining paths appear here, with stretches of stone paving. The path then climbs again, shaded by forest.

At two points, the trail meets the riverbed. Instead of hopping rocks too soon, follow the subtle side trails to the right.

Final Approach (4 km)

The trail now follows the riverbed. You’ll pass a small pool, which is usually crossable without getting wet by keeping to the right wall. During high water, you may need to wade in — not recommended after heavy rain.

Soon, a giant boulder blocks the way. Adventurous hikers can crawl through a gap beneath it, cutting a corner of the trail, or take the marked detour around. From here, continue along the left bank until the riverbed reappears.

The last stretch winds through the river itself, crossing sides only once, before curving into the forest. Stay close to the left cliff wall, and you’ll quickly reach the Sossego waterfall pool.

Sossego Waterfall

A spectacular waterfall with a wide, refreshing pool perfect for swimming. Depths vary from shallow areas to deep sections where you can safely jump. The pool is sunlit until early afternoon (around 2–3 PM).

Traveler Tips

• Park Access: Free entry; part of Chapada Diamantina National Park.

• Leave No Trace: Take your trash back with you and never light fires.

• Trail Difficulty: Expect uneven ground, river crossings, moderate climbs, and some rock-hopping.

• Weather Caution: Avoid the hike during or after heavy rain — slippery rocks and high river levels can make the final section dangerous.

• Sun Protection: Even with shaded stretches, bring a hat and sunscreen for exposed areas.

• Water Supply: Streams are available along the way; one bottle per person is usually enough.

• Cell Signal: Available at the beginning of the trail, but not beyond.

• Guides: Recommended if you’re not confident in trail navigation — some sections can be confusing even with GPS.

⚠️ Quick Safety Note: This trail is considered moderate but can feel difficult for beginners. Be prepared for uneven ground and river crossings, and don’t attempt after recent heavy rain.