Backpacking Cachoeira do Mixila (Brazil)

The Cachoeira do Mixila hike in Chapada Diamantina National Park, Brazil, is an unforgettable adventure. In addition to visiting 3 towering waterfalls and numerous smaller cascades, you’ll also experience an exhilarating adrenaline rush as you navigate through a canyon. During this trek you’ll swim up a river and scramble over small waterfalls. At the end of the canyon, you’re rewarded with a breathtaking sight; the imposing Mixila waterfall cascading down the canyon wall.

In this guide to hiking Cachoeira do Mixila independently, I’ll share how you can discover this beautiful place for yourself. Mixila remains a hidden gem in Chapada Diamantina, so you’ll be able to enjoy it without the crowds that flock to more popular attractions.

If you need a refresher, check out my guide to day hiking and beginner’s guide to backpacking. For more places to explore in Brazil, browse my Brazil destination guides.

Related Articles:
Vale do Pati
Vale do Capão

Is Cachoeira do Mixila in Chapada Diamantina Safe to Visit?

While most people join a guided tour group to Mixila, I did this trek unguided as a solo woman, and felt completely safe. Cachoeira do Mixila and Chapada Diamantina National Park are remote and far from any urban centers with crime.

However, if you don’t have much hiking or backpacking experience, I recommend doing this trek with a guide. Parts of the trail are poorly marked, so bring a reliable hiking GPS device if you’re going unguided. Also, the final stretch of the trek (navigating the canyon) gets sketchy at times. Make sure you’re a confident swimmer and be careful of your footing on the slippery surfaces in the canyon.

Also, watch out for local wildlife. I encountered snakes in the canyon leading up to Mixila waterfall!

Lastly, for peace of mind when traveling, make sure you have travel insurance.

How Long to Visit

The Cachoeira do Mixila trek can be completed in 2 full days. A third day wouldn’t hurt if you prefer a more leisurely pace. Tour groups usually take 2 days, but they cut out a significant amount of walking by driving the initial portion of the trek.

Cachoeira do Mixila Map and Trail Information

Cachoeira do Mixila Map

The trail map above shows the route that I took, covering approximately 20 miles (32 km) with 3,435 feet (1,047 m) elevation gain. Aside from the final portion of the trek (which somewhat resembles canyoning), the terrain is not particularly physically strenuous or difficult.

The first ~4.5 mi (7.2 km) of the hike is flat and along a dirt road. Tour groups usually drive this portion, but if you’re hiking to Cachoeira do Mixila independently, you’ll walk along this road from its starting point in Lençóis.

Cachoeira do Mixila Backpacking Trail Report

Day 1 of Cachoeira do Mixila Trek

Starting from Lençóis

My journey to Cachoeira do Mixila began from Lençóis. The initial leg of the hike spans 4.5 mi (7.2 km), following a flat dirt road that passes by some rural homes. This road is popular with cyclists, and I also saw an ATV tour group. About 1.6 mi (2.6 km) in, I crossed the river just downstream of a popular swimming hole, Ribeirão do Baixo. The river here was quite wide, though not too deep, and I had to take off my shoes to cross. I saw some campsites on the riverbank here, although I wouldn’t recommend them due to accumulated trash and lack of seclusion. 

Not far after passing Ribeirão do Baixo, I had to remove my shoes again to cross a second small river. From there I continued until I walked past a swampy area around mile 4. The trail forked to the right here, passing by a rural home. Tour groups visiting Cachoeira do Mixila drive up the dirt road and park their vehicles here.

Ascending

Finally, the dirt road ended and I continued along a trail into the wilderness. I passed by the remains of an old mining camp, bearing testament to the region’s diamond-rich past. 

The next ~2 mi (3.2 km) consisted of an ascent, much of which was exposed. This open, rocky area was a little difficult to navigate; make sure you hike with a downloaded trail map! Although the ascent was challenging in the sweltering heat, the panoramic view gave me a unique perspective of the area. From the trail, you’ll see Chapada Diamantina’s rugged peaks juxtaposed against sprawling plains, emphasizing the diversity of this region.

Capivari Waterfall

After the climb, I took a side trail to visit the towering Capivari waterfall. The trail leads to the top of the waterfall and offers a breathtaking glimpse into the heart of Chapada Diamantina’s mountains and valleys. To fully appreciate the waterfall, you’ll need to descend the steep and slippery trail to its base. I recommend leaving your pack at the top of the falls before descending.

Cachoeira do Mixila Camping

Continuing from Cachoeira do Capivari, it’s a short walk to the campsite. As I approached the camping area, it was early afternoon and I passed a large tour group heading out. Typically, these groups hike to the campsite on their first day and venture to Cachoeira do Mixila the following morning. Opting to visit Cachoeira do Mixila in the afternoon often guarantees a secluded experience, which may or may not be preferable for safety reasons. However, unless your visit coincides with a large tour group, concerns about overcrowding are minimal. This waterfall in Chapada Diamantina sees fewer visitors compared to other park attractions.

The campsite is located about 8 miles (13 km) into the trek and is situated next to the river. The campsites are obvious; they are right next to the trail. I really enjoyed my experience camping here, especially relaxing on the expansive riverbank after a long day of hiking. During my stay, I was alone at the campsite. There was a small tour group visiting, but they set up camp on the rocky bank across the river.

Cachoeira do Mixila Canyoning

Since it was still early in the afternoon, I decided to explore Mixila waterfall. The trail continued along the river from the campsite, gradually transforming into a canyoning-like adventure during the last 0.5 mi (0.8 km). As the canyon narrowed, steep walls replaced the trail beside the river. Initially, I attempted to navigate by hopping between rocks in the river and clinging to the canyon ledges. However, I soon realized that wading was both quicker and safer.

What makes this river experience unique is the dark brown color of the water. The water appears pitch black in deeper sections, obscuring the riverbed. This made it challenging to gauge depth. On several occasions, I confidently stepped into what I believed to be shallow water, only to find myself unexpectedly submerged and treading.

Swimming in the Canyon

I was doing well making my way upstream until I reached a vast, ominous pool whose depths and endpoint remained concealed. At that moment I discovered a new fear of mine: swimming through pitch black water in the Brazilian jungle. I couldn’t help but imagine all of the creatures lurking in the water. I almost turned around, but I told myself it would be a shame if I had come all this way only to miss the Mixila waterfall. Physically I knew I was capable, and I was determined to not let mental obstacles stop me. 

Unfortunately, I was not well prepared. My waterproofing strategy for my phone consisted of two plastic bags clenched between my teeth as I swam. As my teeth began to chatter uncontrollably from the icy waters, I became terrified at the prospect of losing my phone to the murky depths below.

As I swam around the corner, I was relieved to see the end of the pool. I hoisted myself onto some rocks in the middle of the river to dry off, only to stumble upon another unexpected sight. I was sharing the rocks with several intertwined, teal colored snakes, who were basking in the sun. The realization that they had likely swum through the water to reach the rock intensified my fear of the river’s murky water. I tried not to think about the additional swimming I would need to do to eventually return to the campsite.

Waterfalls

Apart from the lengthy swim, the canyon presents two other significant obstacles: small waterfalls that you have to climb over. One appears earlier in the trail, and the other is just in front of Cachoeira do Mixila. Exercise extreme caution here; the water flow is very strong, and a single misstep could lead to serious injury or being swept underwater by the current. I’ll be honest, I nearly reconsidered my journey at each of these waterfalls. Knowing I was alone and with no tour groups expected until the following morning, I reminded myself to proceed cautiously.

Cachoeira do Mixila

After climbing over the second small waterfall, you’ll reach the terminus of the canyon, where Cachoeira do Mixila awaits. Arriving here, I felt accomplished for having overcome my fears and having reached this hidden gem in Chapada Diamantina National Park. The imposing waterfall combined with the dramatic canyon walls made for a breathtaking sight. Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to linger there for long. The shaded canyon and frigid swim to reach the waterfall left me shivering. Retracing my steps out of the canyon proved more demanding, compounded by fatigue, bone-chilling cold, and the newfound awareness of snakes lurking in the water.

Tips for Navigating the Canyon to Cachoeira do Mixila

For this part of the hike, you’ll need to leave your pack and hiking clothes on the trail so you can swim through the river. Wear a swimsuit under your hiking gear, and bring a waterproof case or dry bag for your phone. I opted to keep my lightweight trail runners on, and I’m uncertain whether barefoot would have provided better grip on the slippery canyon surfaces. I highly recommend wading and swimming through this stretch of the trek rather than attempting to stay dry by scaling the rocky ledges along the canyon sides. These ledges are exceptionally slick. It’s crucial to avoid accidents, especially given the scarcity of fellow hikers who could offer assistance. Despite my familiarity with outdoor adventures, I found this experience particularly intense, often wishing for the added safety measures of a helmet and rope.

Day 1 Camping

Upon returning to camp, I ventured to the nearby Cachoeira Poção. Unlike the other waterfalls on the trail, this one features delicate streams that cascade over a broad rock ledge. Catching the sunset here was a perfect way to wrap up the day.

Since my visit was during Brazil’s winter, sunset arrived early and I went to sleep early. The tour group across the river was enjoying a peaceful bonfire at the time I went to bed.

Day 2 of Cachoeira do Mixila Trek

I managed to explore all of the sights on this trail on my first day, so on day 2, I packed up and headed back to Lençóis. I returned to town by mid-morning, leaving plenty of time for a nap and to enjoy São João festivities later in the day.

Cachoeira do Mixila Camping Locations

The main camping area is next to a river, ~8.5 mi (13.7 km ) into the trail and just after Poção (the second major waterfall on this hike). There are several established campsites right next to the trail. I also saw a tour group cross the river and set up camp on the rocky riverbank.

Water Sources

There are plenty of places to refill water on this trek. Make sure you have enough to get you through the exposed ~3 mi (4.8 km) climb from the end of the dirt road to Capivari Waterfall.

Just a heads up: expect the water to be brown, and in some places, foamy due to organic material. As long as you use a filter, it’s safe to drink.

Useful Tips for Hiking Cachoeira do Mixila

• Limited phone service. Expect no phone service on the trail. Download hiking trail GPS information in advance.
• Beat the heat. Start hiking early. The main climb of the Cachoeira do Mixila trek is not shaded and can get hot.
• Leave no trace. Let’s do our part to keep this place beautiful.
• Beware of wildlife. Snakes live in this area, and I encountered a few. Stay on trail whenever possible and be extra cautious navigating overgrown sections of the trail.
• Be prepared for rough conditions. Be prepared for poorly marked trails, slippery surfaces, and sections of the canyon that require wading and swimming. Make sure you have the trail map downloaded ahead of time for help navigating.
• Be self sufficient. While you’ll likely see tour groups at the campsite, depending on when you visit, you may be alone at the Mixila waterfall. Make sure you have everything you need and be extra cautious to avoid accidents.

Cachoeira do Mixila Weather and When to Go

Chapada Diamantina and the Cachoeira do Mixila hike can be visited year-round. Weather variations between seasons are less drastic compared to other regions of Brazil. Temperatures are generally warm all year.

May to September is the dry season, which also coincides with slightly cooler temperatures. During my visit in June, I experienced one full day of rain, while the rest of the days alternated between sun and clouds. Daytime temperatures were warm, with cooler nights.

From October to April, the rainy season brings higher temperatures. This period showcases the waterfalls in their full splendor, although during my June visit, the waterfalls along the Mixila trek were still flowing heavily!

Chapada Diamantina is a popular holiday destination for Brazilians, so avoid visiting during Brazilian holidays if you don’t like crowds! I visited during São João and enjoyed the local festivities, but I timed my trek to finish just before the official holiday period began.

Chapada Diamantina Information

There is no entrance fee or permit required to visit Cachoeira do Mixila in Chapada Diamantina National Park.

How to Get to Cachoeira do Mixila

The Cachoeira do Mixila trek starts from Lençóis in Chapada Diamantina National Park, Brazil. Check out my guide to Lençóis for information on how to get there by bus and for recommendations on where to stay before trekking to Mixila.

What to Bring to Hike Cachoeira do Mixila

For a full list of what to bring, refer to my complete day hiking and backpacking checklists. For this hike I would stress the following:

• Trail Map. Download the map for offline navigation. 
• Waterproof Phone Pouch.
• Backpacking Pack (Women’s, Men’s). Invest in a high-quality and durable pack that will last for years!
• Trail Runners. Women’s, Men’s. Sections of this hike require wading and will get your feet wet; considering the heat, quick-drying trail runners will be most comfortable.
• Hiking Socks. Women’s, Men’s. Quick-drying wool will keep your feet dry and blister-free.
• Hiking Pants (Women’s, Men’s) and Lightweight Long-Sleeve Shirt (Women’s, Men’s). Bring long pants and a shirt with long sleeves to protect your skin from cuts from overgrown trails.
• Hiking T-Shirt. Women’s, Men’s. Quick-drying T-Shirts are ideal. Tank tops will cause your skin to rub uncomfortably against your backpack straps.
• Rain Jacket. Women’s, Men’s. Even in dry season, you may experience occasional showers.
• Swimsuit and Microfiber Towel. You’ll need to swim to get to Cachoeira do Mixila!
• Hat. Parts of this hike hike are exposed, so protect yourself from the sun.
• Sunscreen.
• Lip Balm with SPF.
• Mosquito spray.
• Water Filter. 
• Electrolytes. These help prevent dehydration and fatigue, especially on strenuous hikes in hot weather.
• Portable Charger and Cable. 
• Headlamp and Spare Batteries. 
• First-Aid Kit
• Tent
• Sleeping Pad
• Sleeping Bag and Compression Sack
• Stove

Where to Buy Hiking Supplies

If you’re in Salvador, check out Planet Outdoor Store for camping gear. The store is well stocked, and the owner is incredibly knowledgeable about Chapada Diamantina hikes! If you’re already in Chapada Diamantina, you may be able to find camping supplies in Lençóis.

As far as food, the small grocery stores in Lençóis surprisingly carry all the essentials you’ll need. For a wider selection, consider stocking up on food in Salvador beforehand.

Nearby Things to Do

Before or after completing the Cachoeira do Mixila hike, spend some time in Lençóis. The town itself is charming and a good place to sample delicious local cuisine or check out a local day hike. For more recommendations, check out my guide to Lençóis. 

If you have the time, my top recommendation for Chapada Diamantina treks is the Vale do Pati trek, which takes at least 3 days and starts from Vale do Capão. If you don’t have that much time, still consider checking out Vale do Capão, which is a quiet, authentic town with plenty of day hiking opportunities.

Thanks for reading, and I hope this guide to hiking Cachoeira do Mixila independently was helpful! Have you swam in a canyon as part of a hike before? Let me know your thoughts and questions in the comments. Happy trails!

For more places to explore, check out my Brazil destination guides and Brazil hikes page.

Confirm all logistical and safety information before your trip. Also If you buy through links on this site, I may earn an affiliate commission. Thanks for supporting me in creating free content for you to enjoy!

Save this post for later and share on Pinterest!

Comments