Cataratas dos Couros

The Cataratas dos Couros bring together waterfalls, rapids, rock walls and pools in a large-scale landscape. Names in use include Muralha, São Vicente (also called Almécegas Mil) and Buracão. The name of each waterfall can vary among residents, operators and maps, so it is best to agree on the circuit by route and stopping points, as well as by name.

Park management's directions start from the Alto Paraíso entrance portal: about 18 km on GO-118 toward Brasília, then another 20 km on GO-575 to the park entrance. Ask your guide where the parking lot is and about conditions on the final stretch; the distance to each waterfall depends on the circuit. Between November and April the water tends to gain strength; more volume also means a greater need to restrict swimming and to watch for changes in the river.

In the reported tradition, the name Couros is associated with washing the hides of deer taken in hunting. A visit today combines watching the waterfalls and walking across different levels of terrain. For lunch, try the food of Dona Luzia and Dona Eleuza, booking before the hike. Meal and parking information is local and should be reconfirmed.

Águas do Paraíso State Park was created on September 14, 2020, and covers 5,682 hectares. Entry is free, a guide is mandatory and groups are limited to six people. Visiting hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with last entry at 3 p.m. Camping (including in the parking lot), alcoholic drinks, fires, pets and jumping into the water are prohibited; drones are subject to authorization. The official circuit distinguishes Muralha, São Vicente, Parafuso and the final sequence of falls.