Paraty: Melancia Waterfall Trekking and Hiking Tour
A challenging trail through protected Atlantic Forest leads to two stunning waterfalls inside Serra da Bocaina National Park.
The Melancia Waterfall trail takes hikers deep into one of Brazil's most biodiverse protected reserves, Serra da Bocaina National Park, located approximately 25km from the entrance to Paraty. The reward at the end is a sequence of two spectacular waterfalls with crystal-clear natural pools perfect for swimming and relaxation.
The trail itself is roughly 3km long and technically demanding, requiring careful footing through dense Atlantic Forest. Despite the challenge, the pace is kept comfortable, with guides allowing time to observe the surrounding flora and birdlife along the way.
Visitors reach the first waterfall after about two hours of walking, where the full scale of the falls becomes immediately apparent. A short additional walk of 15 minutes brings the group to the second waterfall, a quieter spot reserved for swimming, lunch, and rest before the return journey.
Tour Highlights
Swim in the natural pools at two distinct waterfalls, each offering a different perspective of the Serra da Bocaina landscape.
Trek through a protected stretch of Atlantic Forest, one of the most threatened and biodiverse biomes on the planet.
Observe native bird species and lush tropical flora along a 3km trail that winds through the national park.
Explore within the boundaries of Serra da Bocaina National Park, a federally protected area with remarkable natural integrity.
Enjoy a relaxed lunch at the second waterfall, surrounded by forest and the sound of moving water.
Follow a guided route through technical terrain, supported by local expertise that ensures both safety and discovery.
Itinerary
The group departs from Paraty and travels approximately 25km to the entrance of Serra da Bocaina National Park, where the trail begins.
Hikers enter the protected forest and begin the 3km trail at a comfortable pace. The route is technically demanding and requires attentive footing throughout.
After approximately two hours of walking, the group reaches the first waterfall. This viewpoint offers a sweeping look at the full height and force of the falls, and is the site of the first swim.
A 15-minute walk beyond the first fall leads to the second waterfall. Hikers swim in clear pools, enjoy lunch here, and rest before the return.
The group retraces the trail back through the forest, returning to the trailhead for the journey back to Paraty.
What Is Included
Included
- Professional local guide
- Guided trekking through Serra da Bocaina National Park
- Access to both waterfalls along the trail
- Lunch at the second waterfall
Not Included
- Transportation to and from the trailhead (confirm with operator)
- Personal travel insurance
- Gratuities for the guide
- Personal items and extra snacks
Important Information
Ready to Trek to Melancia Waterfall?
Secure your place on this guided hike through Serra da Bocaina National Park and experience two of Paraty's most rewarding natural sites.
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