How to get to Usina Waterfall in Itacare: Trail map to Usina Waterfall and Jeribucacu
- Rachel
- Jul 20
- 3 min read
Updated: Sep 4
Usina Waterfall (Cachoeira da Usina) is a small freshwater cascade located in the Atlantic Forest near Jeribucaçu Beach in Itacare, Bahia. Unlike many natural waterfalls in the region, Usina Waterfall is formed by a small hydroelectric dam that was once part of a local power generation system. The word "usina" in Portuguese means "plant" or "power station", referring to its former function. Though no longer in operation, the remains of the dam structure are still visible, and the site now serves as a natural swimming and resting area for hikers exploring the surrounding forest.
The waterfall flows year-round and creates a shallow pool at its base, fed by a freshwater river that passes through mangroves and forested areas before emptying into the ocean at Jeribucaçu Beach. The area is surrounded by dense native vegetation and is part of the Mata Atlântica biome, one of the most biodiverse ecosystems in Brazil.
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Everything you need to know about visiting Usina Waterfall in Itacare
Accessible by: Drive 15 minutes + 15 minute trail
How to get there: Drive 15 minutes or take the bus from Itacare to the Usina Waterfall carpark (map).
To find the entrance to the Usina Waterfall, walk back across the bridge by the carpark. The entrance to the trail is not marked, but it is relatively easy to find if you know where to go. The trail starts just back across the bridge that you crossed to reach the carpark, and on the same side of the road (map).
About the trail: The trail from the carpark to the waterfall is just over 1km (0.7 miles) and takes just 15 minutes. The trail is well-used and can be completed without a guide. The trail is relatively easy, aside from a steep decline at the end of the trail to reach the base of the waterfall. However, note that the trail can become muddy and slippery after rain.
Things to know: After heavy rains, the strong water flow makes the waterfall too dangerous to swim. It's best to visit on a sunny day.
Optional: Continue the Hike to Jeribucacu Beach
If you are looking for a bigger adventure, continue the trail past Usina Waterfall, to reach Jeribucacu Beach (around 1.5 hours). The trail continues through the Atlantic Forest before passing through an impressive mangrove river system.
Jeribucaçu is one of Itacare's larger beaches where a freshwater river meets the sea, forming a natural estuary. The beach is surrounded by cliffs and dense forest. Nearby there is a freshwater river and a small lake, perfect for swimming. There are also natural pools nearby.
For full details on the trail from Usina Waterfall to Jeribucacu Beach, follow this trail map:
Do you need a guide to visit Usina Waterfall and Jeribucacu Beach?
The hike to Usina Waterfall is very straightforward and does not require a guide.
However, if you want to continue the hike to Jeribucacu, it's better to take a guide for this longer hike. You will hike through mangroves and the correct trail is not always clear. Tours to Usina Waterfall and Jeribucacu Beach also include transport between Itacare and Jeribucacu.
More resources for planning your trip
Find cheap bus, ferry, and private transfer tickets on Bookaway, where you can make reservations ahead of time from abroad. For more information on traveling by bus, read my full guide to taking long-distance busses in Brazil.
Book your accommodation on Booking.com, with thousands of options ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly backpacker hostels, there's something for everyone
Don't forget to read my packing check-list for Brazil
Finally, read this post to find out 10 things you should do before you travel to Brazil!
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