Cachoeira do Tobogã & Tarzan Waterfall Guide

After a few days in the ocean, cooling off beneath a freshwater waterfall can feel just as refreshing, and Tobogã and Tarzan are the two most popular options around Paraty, sitting just a short walk apart from each other. This guide covers what each one is actually like, so you know what you're getting into before you go. For more waterfalls and beaches in the area, see our Best Beaches Around Paraty guide.

Cachoeira do Tobogã, the natural rock slide

Tobogã is exactly what its name suggests: a natural rock slide where you can slide several meters into the refreshing pool below. It looks considerably scarier from the top than it actually is, and after watching a few locals fly down the rocks, most visitors can't resist giving it a try themselves.

The slide itself is smooth, worn down by decades of water flow, and the landing pool is deep enough to make the drop feel exciting without feeling risky. It's the kind of experience that photos never quite do justice to.

Our Tip: Don't overthink the Tobogã slide. It might look intimidating at first, but it's one of the most fun experiences around Paraty, and chances are you'll want to do it more than once.

Tarzan Waterfall, jump or relax, your choice

Just a short walk from Tobogã, Tarzan Waterfall offers a different kind of thrill. Adventurous visitors jump from the surrounding rocks into the natural pool below, while others are happy to simply relax beside the river and enjoy the sound of moving water.

The setting feels a little wilder than Tobogã, with taller rock faces and denser forest crowding in around the pool, which is part of what makes it worth the short extra walk.

Our Tip: If you're not comfortable jumping, that's completely fine. Tarzan is just as enjoyable for swimming and relaxing by the water as it is for the jumps.

Getting there

Both waterfalls are reached by a short drive from Paraty followed by an easy walk through the forest from the parking area, making them accessible to most fitness levels. Because they sit close together, most visitors combine both into a single trip rather than choosing one over the other.

What to bring

Water shoes are always a good idea when visiting waterfalls, the rocks can be slippery, especially after rain. Bring a change of clothes, a towel, and something waterproof for your phone or camera if you plan on capturing the Tobogã slide.

Our Tip: Visit earlier in the day if you can. Both waterfalls get busier as the day goes on, especially on weekends, and the light filtering through the forest canopy is at its best in the morning.

Make it a full day

Many visitors combine a stop at Tobogã and Tarzan with a visit to one of the region's cachaça distilleries, since several sit along the same route through the rainforest. It's a natural pairing, cooling off in the waterfalls, then learning how the region's most famous spirit is made. See our Food Lover's Guide to Paraty for more on the cachaça side of the trip, or join our Waterfalls & Cachaça Tour to combine both in a single, guided day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tobogã slide safe?

Yes, it's a popular and well-established natural slide with a deep landing pool. It looks more intimidating from the top than it actually is.

Do I have to jump at Tarzan Waterfall?

Not at all. Many visitors simply swim and relax by the river without jumping from the rocks.

How do I get to Tobogã and Tarzan Waterfalls?

Both are reached by a short drive from Paraty followed by an easy walk through the forest from the parking area.

Can I visit both waterfalls in one trip?

Yes, since they're just a short walk apart, most visitors combine both into a single visit.

What should I wear or bring?

Water shoes, a swimsuit, a towel, and a change of clothes. The rocks can be slippery, especially after rain, so proper footwear makes a real difference.