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Vale do Capão is located in the heart of Chapada Diamantina, Bahia, surrounded by breathtaking mountains, waterfalls, and natural beauty.

The village is part of the municipality of Palmeiras and is highly sought after by ecotourists, adventurers, and those looking to disconnect in a peaceful and rustic environment.

If you’re seeking an adventure immersed in nature, Vale do Capão is the perfect destination. In this complete guide, we’ll take you on a journey through this Bahian paradise, uncovering the best places to stay, the most amazing trails, and the delights of the local cuisine.

Discover how to get there, what to do, and how to plan your trip for unforgettable moments!

Note: The currency exchange rates used in this article are based on the rates from December 5, 2024, with 1 USD = 5,99 BRL and 1 EUR = 6,33 BRL. Please be aware that these rates are for reference only, and updated values should be checked closer to your travel dates.

Where is Vale do Capão and how to get there?

Vale do Capão is located in the municipality of Palmeiras, Bahia, approximately 450 km from Salvador, the state capital.

The Vale do Capão is located within the Chapada Diamantina. Chapada Diamantina is a stunning national park located in the heart of Bahia, Brazil. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, it features dramatic mountain ranges, lush valleys, crystal-clear rivers, and countless waterfalls.

The region is rich in biodiversity and offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, cave exploration, and swimming in natural pools. Chapada Diamantina also holds historical significance as it was a center for diamond mining during Brazil’s colonial period, which inspired its name (“Diamond Plateau”).

Today, it’s a haven for ecotourism and adventure seekers, attracting visitors from around the world who come to explore its unique natural beauty and tranquil environment.

The nearest airport to Vale do Capão is in Lençóis, about 72 km away. If you arrive in Salvador, you can travel to Lençóis by bus or rent a car. The drive from Salvador takes about 6 to 7 hours via BR-324, BA-052, and BA-245.

Alternatively, you can travel to Palmeiras, the closest municipality. From there, it’s about 20 km to Vale do Capão, which can be covered by taxi or transfer — services available through local agencies. Keep in mind that the route includes dirt roads, so a more robust vehicle might make the journey easier, and it’s important to check road conditions, especially during the rainy season.

There are also bus lines connecting Salvador to Palmeiras. Once in Palmeiras, you can take local transport or a taxi to reach Vale do Capão.

How far Is Palmeiras from Vale do Capão?

The distance between Palmeiras and Vale do Capão is approximately 23 km. It’s a dirt road with stunning landscapes but requires careful driving. Make sure to refuel your vehicle beforehand, as there are no gas stations along the way.

Although the distance is relatively short, the travel time can vary depending on weather conditions and your vehicle. It’s recommended to allow around 40 minutes for this journey.

You can make this trip by car or taxi, and some travelers opt for transfers offered by local tourism agencies for a more comfortable and secure journey.

How to get from Lençóis to Vale do Capão?

The journey from Lençóis to Vale do Capão is one of the most popular routes in Chapada Diamantina. The two towns are approximately 70 km apart, which translates to about a 2-hour drive with breathtaking scenery along the way.

To travel from Lençóis to Vale do Capão, you can rent a car, take a bus to Palmeiras, and from there, hire a transfer or taxi. The route includes dirt road sections, particularly near Capão, so if possible, consider using a vehicle suited for this type of terrain.

When is the Best Time to Visit Vale do Capão?

The best time to visit Vale do Capão depends on what you’re looking for in your trip. The weather in Chapada Diamantina varies throughout the year, offering unique experiences in each season.

Dry Season (May to September):

Advantages: Mild weather, ideal for hiking and trekking. The landscapes take on earthy tones with clear blue skies. Less rainfall ensures more sunny days.

Disadvantages: Rivers and waterfalls tend to have less water, which may limit some aquatic activities.

Rainy Season (October to April):

Advantages: The scenery is lush, with greener vegetation and fuller waterfalls. Accommodation prices are usually lower.

Disadvantages: Trails can become slippery, and some roads may be affected by heavy rain.

Where to stay in Vale do Capão?

One of the highlights of staying in Vale do Capão is the opportunity to connect with nature, enjoy peace and quiet, and experience the area’s rustic and relaxed vibe. The village offers a wide range of accommodation options for every taste and budget, from charming and comfortable inns to campsites and hostels.

For a cozy and family-friendly environment, options like Pousada do Capão and Pousada Pé no Mato are excellent choices. For those seeking a touch of luxury, Chalés Savi offers mountain views, perfect for couples.

If you enjoy camping but still want some comforts of a guesthouse, consider Pousada e Camping Lakshmi, which also offers shared dormitories.

Most inns offer Wi-Fi, though cell phone reception is limited, allowing for a fully immersive local experience. Be sure to book in advance, as accommodations tend to fill up, especially during holidays and vacation periods.

What to do in Vale do Capão in 3 days?

In three days, you can experience the essentials of Vale do Capão.

Day 1: Start by exploring Rio Preto e Rodas, located near the village center. This area features natural pools and trails, perfect for a refreshing dip.

Day 2: Take on the adventure of hiking to Cachoeira da Fumaça, one of the most famous waterfalls in the region. The trail requires preparation, but the breathtaking view is worth the effort!

Day 3: Visit Riachinho, a waterfall ideal for relaxing, or Lagoa dos Patos, a less crowded and free alternative.

If you’re up for more, consider stopping by Gruta da Lapa Doce and Morro do Pai Inácio on your way back to Salvador. These are must-see attractions near Chapada Diamantina. Plan your visit to catch the sunset at Morro do Pai Inácio, one of the region’s most iconic views.

What to do in Vale do Capão without a guide?

In Vale do Capão, there are several attractions that can be visited without a guide, such as Rio Preto e Rodas and Riachinho. Both spots are accessible and feature simple trails. However, it’s important to exercise caution and wear appropriate clothing for hiking.

If you prefer to explore on your own, consider getting local maps and talking to residents, who are usually welcoming and happy to share tips on the best routes and points of interest. Note that for more complex trails and waterfalls, such as Cachoeira da Fumaça, hiring a guide is mandatory to ensure safety.

Other activities to enjoy without a guide include:

• Yoga and meditation: Many inns and holistic centers offer yoga and meditation classes surrounded by nature.
• Birdwatching: The area is rich in biodiversity, making it ideal for spotting various bird species.
• Visiting craft shops: Discover local artisans’ work and purchase unique souvenirs.
• Tasting local cuisine: Try typical dishes like jackfruit heart pastries and chicken with okra.

Where to eat in Vale do Capão?

We all know that gastronomy plays a big role during a trip, and Vale do Capão does not disappoint! There’s something for everyone, and to help you out, I’ve gathered some recommendations for places in the village to grab lunch, dinner, or a snack during your stay.

• For breakfast: Visit Nutrir Café, open all day, or Galpão.
• For a traditional experience: Try Comida Caseira da Dona Beli (Homemade Food by Mrs. Beli), an excellent daytime option and considered the first restaurant in the village!
• For snacks: Check out Empada das Princesas, Churroots do Capão, Bicho de Serra Café e Bar.
• For pizza lovers: Pizzaria Alcapãone, Especiarias da Casa, Pizzaria Capão Grande, and Pizzaria Maria Bunita offer delicious options, perfect for the evening.
• For more elaborate dishes: Alma Bistrô (run by Chef Ecatharine, a participant in Masterchef 2019), Ôxe Restô, and Gatto Sete are great choices for a more sophisticated dinner. Love Italia is also fantastic, serving a variety of pasta dishes.
• Don’t miss Licoteria do Palito, where you can enjoy local artisan beverages and liqueurs.

Whatever your choice, the cuisine in Vale do Capão has options for all tastes and schedules, from quick meals to refined dinners.

My Itinerary in Vale do Capão During São João

I visited Vale do Capão in June 2022 during São João with the Ellefantrip agency. Here’s our itinerary:

June 22nd, 10 PM: Departure from Salvador

June 23rd, 5 AM: Arrival in Vale do Capão – Rio Preto and Rodas

I took some time to drop off my bags, have breakfast, and explore the village center.

We then headed to visit Rio Preto and Rodas (free entry). Rio Preto is one of the largest rivers in the area, and close to the village, you’ll find two easily accessible waterfalls.

The Rio Preto waterfall is on an easy trail, about a 3-hour round trip. It has a 4-meter drop and a natural pool with dark, reddish water. There’s also a calmer, shallower pool above the waterfall.

The São João days were quite chilly, so taking a dip was a bit of a challenge, but I promise it was worth it!

On the way back, you can pass by the Rodas rapids, where waterwheels were once used for processing flour and coffee.

The village has a unique vibe, and experiencing Chapada Diamantina during São João made it even more special. At night, there was traditional forró at the bandstand, right in the heart of the village, with performances, food and drink stalls, handicrafts, and more. The energy was incredible, and we danced until dawn.

June 24th: Visit to Boa Vista Waterfall in Conceição dos Gatos

This small village is close to Capão, and from what I’ve heard, it has several waterfalls. The one we visited was easily accessible via a small slope and had a R$10 fee (US$ 1,67/ € 1,58). The upper part of the river is calm but quite chilly. Below the drop, there’s a pool that felt even colder.

Since it was São João Day, the Ellefantrip team prepared a “arraiá” at the inn! It was amazing, with lots of food, drinks, and of course, more forró. Later, we headed back to the bandstand for another night of dancing.

June 25th: Cachoeira da Fumaça (Fumaça Waterfall)

We woke up early for the trail to the famous Cachoeira da Fumaça. Ellefantrip offers two options:

Cachoeira da Fumaça (more challenging, R$50 [US$ 8,35/ € 7,90])

Lagoa dos Patos (free) and Riachinho (easier, R$12 [US$ 2,00/ € 1,90]).

I chose Cachoeira da Fumaça, one of the tallest waterfalls in Brazil, and I don’t regret it.

Those who know me know I’m afraid of heights, so I was worried about getting close to the edge to see the fall up close.

I enjoyed it! I didn’t go far enough to see the pool at the bottom, but a rainbow appeared just as I was looking at the waterfall, and that was enough for me.

The trail is 12 km long. The beginning is a steep climb, but it flattens out beautifully and calmly toward the waterfall. The return is a bit harder as the descent takes a toll on your knees and feet, but it’s all worth it.

The night ended just like the others: lots of forró until late, as I began to bid farewell to this incredible village.

June 26th: Return to Salvador via Gruta da Lapa Doce and Sunset at Morro do Pai Inácio

Our last day in Capão was bittersweet. We left the inn for the second-largest cave in Brazil: Gruta da Lapa Doce (R$40 [US$ 6,68/ € 6,32]).

It spans over 40 km with enormous chambers, stalactites, and stalagmites. We took the shorter trail, and it felt like being in Tomb Raider.

From there, we headed to watch the sunset at Morro do Pai Inácio (R$12 [US$ 2,00/ € 1,90]). The climb is easy, and taking pictures on the famous rock is simpler than it seems. The panoramic view of Chapada Diamantina is breathtaking!

I left Capão knowing for sure that I’ll be back!

Important information for your trip to Capão

To make the most of your trip to Vale do Capão, it’s essential to plan ahead and be prepared for the local infrastructure, which still preserves a rustic atmosphere and connection with nature.

Being a peaceful village far from major centers, some particularities of Capão may surprise those used to city conveniences, but I must say this is exactly the charm of the place. Here are some tips:

The voltage in Vale do Capão is 220V, so check if your electronics are compatible to avoid damage.

Cell phone signal in the region is very weak or non-existent. Many establishments and inns offer Wi-Fi, allowing for basic connection if necessary. It’s good for disconnecting!

There are no ATMs in the village, and many places, including tourist attractions, accept only cash. Therefore, bring an amount of cash to cover your expenses, especially on trails and places that don’t support cards or Pix (an instant payment system). If needed, there are markets and pharmacies with credit card machines, but it’s not guaranteed that all accept debit or are always operational.

The inns in the region offer basic and welcoming accommodations, usually with Wi-Fi, towels, and bed linen. However, they ask guests not to use the room towels on trails or waterfalls. So, bring an extra towel to use on outings like Rio Preto and Rodas, which are unmissable.

To ensure a smooth and well-prepared stay, bring some essential items that may be useful, such as personal medications and suitable clothing for the varied climate. During the day, the heat predominates, so light and sun-protective clothing are ideal.

At night, it can get cold, especially during São João and winter, so include a raincoat and some warm pieces in your luggage. I felt quite cold at night, with temperatures reaching 15ºC when I was there in June, so don’t overlook this tip if you’re visiting in winter.

As for luggage, avoid overpacking. Carrying only the necessary items makes mobility easier and trails more manageable. For walks, a small and comfortable backpack or bag is ideal for carrying necessary items: light clothes, hiking shoes or boots, a cap or visor, sunglasses, a water bottle, sunscreen, and insect repellent.

Since the tours are long, also bring light and practical snacks to keep your energy up throughout the day.

Among practical and durable options, bring cereal bars, sandwiches with non-perishable fillings, whole-grain cookies, dried fruits (like apricots, apples, and bananas), and even easily transportable fresh fruits, like apples, guavas, and bananas. To complement, also take nuts, such as walnuts, cashews, and peanuts, which provide energy and are easy to store.

Following these tips and organizing in advance will make all the difference in your experience at Vale do Capão, ensuring a safer, more comfortable, and enjoyable trip.

Vale do Capão is an irresistible invitation for those looking to reconnect with nature and live unique experiences. Whether as an adventurer on challenging trails, relaxed by crystal-clear waterfalls, or contemplative under a starry sky, Chapada Diamantina awaits you.

Unveil the natural beauty, savor the local cuisine, and experience the vibrant culture of this paradise. And remember: by visiting Vale do Capão, you contribute to preserving this natural treasure. Plan your trip and discover why this is one of Brazil’s most sought-after destinations.