Morro de São Paulo & Gamboa: Hike, Waterfall & Mud Bath Tour

Summary

Hiking Morro to Gamboa for waterfalls, sea air and fishing life

You’ll hike from Morro de São Paulo through quiet neighborhoods and forest trails with a local guide, pausing to cool off at Fonte do Céu waterfall before reaching Gamboa’s laid-back fishing village. Expect salty breezes, muddy feet, and glimpses of island life you’d never see from a hammock.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered what Morro de São Paulo looks like beyond the beaches? I did, so I signed up for this hike to Gamboa with a local guide — honestly not sure what I was getting into. We met at Aureliano Lima Square (it’s the main one, you can’t miss it) and right away our guide, João, greeted us with that easy Bahia smile. There were a few other travelers in the group, swapping sunscreen and stories about last night’s caipirinhas. The morning felt sticky-warm but not too hot — just enough that the shade from Morro’s tangled trees was a relief every time we ducked under.

We started winding through Morro’s back neighborhoods — laundry flapping from balconies, kids chasing a soccer ball barefoot down a dusty lane. João pointed out Fonte Grande (he said it’s where locals still fill their water jugs) before leading us up toward the “Fonte do Céu” waterfall. The path turned quieter as we left behind the last houses; suddenly it was just birdsong and that earthy smell after rain. I’m not usually one for poetry but there was something about that patch of sunlight hitting wet leaves — made me stop for a second just to breathe it in.

The waterfall itself isn’t huge but it’s cold and clear, perfect after sweating uphill. Someone dared me to stand under it — I did, shrieked (it’s really cold), everyone laughed. Afterward we kept going until we reached these wide views of the continent across calm water — you could see little boats bobbing near Gamboa’s shore, fishermen waving as they hauled in nets. João told us about growing up here and how his uncle still fishes every morning at sunrise. We ended muddy but happy on Gamboa beach; some folks tried the famous clay mud bath (I passed this time — maybe next trip). Anyway, I still think about that quiet moment by the waterfall more than anything else.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Hike from Morro to Fonte do Ceu Waterfall

• Meet at Aureliano Lima Square
• Walk past Fuente Grande
• Explore Morro's neighborhoods
• Reach road to Fonte do Céu waterfall
• Enjoy views of the continent
• Visit Fonte do Céu waterfall

Top questions

How difficult is the Morro de São Paulo & Gamboa hike?

The hike requires moderate fitness; some uphill sections and uneven paths are involved.

Where does the tour start?

The group meets at Aureliano Lima Square in Morro de São Paulo.

Is there swimming at Fonte do Céu waterfall?

Yes, you can swim or cool off in the waterfall during the tour.

Is lunch included on this day trip?

No lunch is included; bring snacks or plan to eat after arriving in Gamboa.

Are guides bilingual?

Bilingual guides are available with selected booking options.

Does this tour include hotel pickup?

No hotel pickup is included; you meet at the main square instead.

Can pregnant travelers join this hike?

This tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers due to terrain difficulty.

What’s included

Your day includes guidance from a local native guide (with bilingual option if selected), all walking routes from Morro de São Paulo through forest trails to Fonte do Céu waterfall and onward to Gamboa beach—plus plenty of chances to chat with locals or try that famous mud bath if you’re feeling brave.