Malacara Canyon Trail: River Crossings & Natural Pool Swim
The Malacara Trail Ends in a Canyon Pool You Can Actually Swim In
You walk a guided trail through South Brazil's Malacara Canyon, crossing the river twice and moving through native forest while your guide explains the local fauna, flora and geology. The trail ends at natural pools where you swim and rest before returning. Shin guards and walking sticks are provided, and an air-conditioned vehicle handles transport to and from the trailhead.
Step-by-step itinerary
Guided walk on Malacara Trail
- Orientation on walking techniques
- View Canyon walls and take photos
- Cross Malacara River
- Enter native forest and learn about fauna and flora
- Second river crossing with geology explanation
- Pass natural springs and refill water
- Bath in natural pools of Canyon Malacara
- Take pictures and have a snack
- Return to trail starting point
What’s included
Air-conditioned vehicle transport to and from the trailhead, shin guards and walking sticks for the walk, a guide who explains the local fauna, flora and geology, stops for photos and videos at key points, access to natural springs for refilling water, and a snack after swimming in the natural pools.
Times
- Every day No fixed time
Before you book
Operated by Malacara Turismo
Prices and times updated 8 days ago
Traveler reviews
The experience
The trail starts at the canyon entrance, where the walls rise up around you and your guide runs through the basics: how to cross water safely, where not to step, why the forest here matters. Then you're moving. The Malacara River appears first, and you cross it, shin guards already on, walking sticks in hand. The native forest closes in after that, dense and layered, and the guide points out what lives here: birds you didn't know existed, plants that grow nowhere else, the geology written into the rock face. It's not a lecture. It's more like someone showing you how to read what's in front of you.
A second river crossing comes up, and this time there's a longer stop. The guide explains how the canyon formed, what the water does over time, why the stones are shaped the way they are. You take photos. The light filters through the canopy in a way that makes sense only when you're standing in it. After that, the trail opens onto natural springs. The kind where you can refill water bottles and actually feel your energy shift. The walking sticks help on the uneven ground, and the shin guards matter when you're stepping over roots and rocks.
The natural pools at the end of the Malacara Trail are the reason you came. You swim. You sit on the rocks. You take the kind of photos that don't need filters because the water is that clear and the canyon walls are that tall. The guide stays nearby but gives you space. This part is yours. After you've had enough, you eat a small snack, change back into dry clothes, and walk the trail in reverse to the starting point. An air-conditioned vehicle is waiting to take you back.
Is this one for you?Right for travelers who want to move through a canyon landscape with someone who knows it, without having to navigate the route alone or figure out which crossings are safe: the guide and equipment handle the logistics so you can focus on the walk and the swim.
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Top questions
What languages is the tour guided in?
Live guide in Spanish and Portuguese.
Can children come?
Yes. Ticket types: Youth (12 to 17 years); Child (5 to 11 years). Children under 5 can't be included in the booking.
What happens if it rains?
It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.
What's included in the tour?
Air-conditioned vehicle transport, shin guards, walking sticks, and a guide who explains fauna, flora and geology along the route. A snack is provided after swimming.
Can I swim in the natural pools?
Yes. The trail ends at the natural pools of Canyon Malacara, where you can bathe and swim before returning.
Is this trail difficult?
The tour requires at least moderate physical fitness. It involves river crossings, walking through forest and uneven terrain. It's not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.
What should I bring?
Bring a change of clothes and a towel for swimming. Shin guards and walking sticks are provided. Water bottles can be refilled at natural springs along the route.
Is there parking or transport to the trailhead?
Yes. An air-conditioned vehicle is included. Public transportation options are also available nearby.
Can infants come on this trail?
Infants are allowed but must sit on an adult's lap during vehicle transport. The trail itself involves river crossings and uneven terrain, so suitability depends on the child's age and ability.
What will the guide explain?
The guide covers local fauna, flora, geology of the region and canyon formation. There are stops for photos and video along the way.
Malacara Canyon Trail: River Crossings & Natural Pool Swim
3h 30m · ES · PT
from US$ 29 per person
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