Malacara Canyon guided trail hike with natural pool swim
River crossings and a natural pool at the end of the canyon floor
A guided trail through Malacara Canyon in South Brazil follows the river bed for approximately 4 kilometers, crossing water eight times before reaching a natural pool for swimming. Your guide shares details about the local fauna, flora, geology and regional culture while you walk through the transition from Atlantic Forest to Araucaria Forest, with views of the canyon walls throughout. The trail is classified as easy and takes about three and a half hours.
Step-by-step itinerary
Guided trail and natural pool bath
- Check in at the park
- Start 4.2 km trail along Malacara River
- Cross river up to eight times
- Learn about local fauna, flora, and geology
- Observe canyon walls and forest transition
- Enjoy bath in natural pools
- Have a snack (not provided)
- Return to starting point along same trail
What’s included
- All fees and taxes.
- adventure insurance.
- snake protection leggings.
Times
- Every day 08:30 13:30
Before you book
Operated by Eliton Guia dos Canyons
Prices and times updated 3 days ago
Traveler reviews
The experience
The trail starts after checking in at the park and follows the Malacara River bed for its entire length. You'll cross the river eight times along the route, getting your feet wet and possibly more of your clothes as you wade through. The guide speaks Portuguese and shares information about the local wildlife, plants, rock formations and the history of the Serra Geral National Park canyons as you walk. You'll see the canyon walls and watch the forest change from Atlantic Forest to Araucaria Forest as the elevation shifts.
At the end of the trail, you reach natural pools where you can swim and cool off after the hike. The route covers approximately 4 kilometers and takes about three and a half hours total. Bring at least two 500ml bottles of water with you. You can refill from a natural source along the way, though the water is not provided. After your swim, you return along the same trail back to the starting point.
Is this one for you?Pick this if you want a guided walk with river crossings rather than a self-guided hike: the guide navigates while you focus on the terrain.
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Top questions
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 does the Malacara Canyon trail actually look like as you walk it?
The trail follows the river bed itself, so you're walking through water crossings rather than around them. You'll see canyon walls on both sides and watch the forest type change as you go, moving from Atlantic Forest to Araucaria Forest. The guide points out the geology and local wildlife as you walk.
How many times do you cross the river on this trail?
The Malacara Canyon trail includes eight river crossings. Each one means wading through water, so wear clothes and shoes you don't mind getting wet.
Is there time to actually swim in the natural pool, or is it just a quick dip?
You have time to bathe in the natural pools at the end of the trail before returning. After your swim, you walk back along the same route to the starting point.
What should I bring for this hike besides water?
Bring at least two 500ml bottles of water to refill along the way. Wear clothes and shoes that can get wet from the river crossings. Snake protection leggings are included with your booking.
Malacara Canyon guided trail hike with natural pool swim
3h 30m · PT
from US$ 22 per person
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