Within a few kilometers of the Serra da Canastra, the São Francisco River lives out its entire childhood: it is born as a trickle of icy water on the high plateau and, just ahead, leaps 186 meters down the wall of Casca d’Anta — the first great waterfall of the river that crosses half of Brazil. Visiting both on the same route is witnessing a geographic baptism.
The historic source
In the upper section (São Roque de Minas gate), a short boardwalk leads to the marker of the source of the Velho Chico: transparent water welling up between rocks and grass, cold enough to numb your fingers. Drinking a sip there is tradition — and realizing this little stream becomes the river of national integration, with 2,800 km ahead of it, changes the size of the moment. Minimum effort, maximum symbolism.
Casca d’Anta from above
Still in the upper section, the road leads to the top of the falls: viewpoints over the abyss where the São Francisco throws itself off the plateau, the valley opening to the horizon. In late afternoon, the light gilds the entire rock wall — take the time the photo deserves (and mind the edges).
Casca d’Anta from below
Through the lower section (São José do Barreiro/Vargem Bonita), a forest trail of ~40-60 minutes climbs to the pool at the base: the 186-meter curtain thundering in front of you, rainbows in the mist and an icy swim for the brave. It is the most powerful sight in the Canastra — the kind of place that silences the whole group.
Logistics of the epic day
- The upper and lower sections have different gates, with ~2h of dirt road between them — many split it into two days.
- Full tank and water on board: there are no services inside the park.
- Entrance fee: charging is momentarily suspended (ICMBio Operational Protocol No. 01/2026, in force since 04 June 2026), except at the Paraíso Complex in Delfinópolis — confirm the current rules before you go.
- Best light: source and top in the morning; waterfall base in the afternoon (or the other way around — you can’t get it wrong).
🥾 Who is it for?
Effort: light at the source and the upper viewpoints; moderate on the base trail (a climb over rocks and roots). Children: the source suits all ages; the base of Casca d’Anta from age 6-7 with stamina. Seniors and reduced mobility: the source and upper viewpoints are accessible with minimal walking — they alone make the epic day; the base trail asks for good knees (trekking poles help a lot on the way down).
