Pedro David Waterfall: Visit This Natural Treasure

Image

Hidden among beautiful mountains, the district of São Francisco Xavier is part of the municipality of São José dos Campos, located just over an hour's drive away. Many visitors to São Francisco Xavier are drawn to its relaxing activities, one of the highlights being the Pedro David Waterfall.

After being closed for two years due to the pandemic, this waterfall has recently reopened to welcome both tourists and locals. Visiting this natural attraction is a joyful experience—after all, who doesn’t love the energy and well-being that nature provides? Below, find useful information and travel tips about this natural gem:

How to Get to Pedro David Waterfall

Located on Pedro David Municipal Road (toward Joanópolis) and just 3 km from the center of São Francisco Xavier, the Pedro David Waterfall is a great destination for families and groups of friends. It is a true tourist attraction in the region, maintained by state authorities.

If you are coming from São José dos Campos, take the Monteiro Lobato Highway and follow the signs leading to São Francisco Xavier. The drive from São José to São Francisco takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes.

From the center of São Francisco Xavier, reaching the waterfall is easy, as the route is well-marked, and you can arrive in just 7 minutes by car.

For those coming from São Paulo, you will need to take the BR-116 or the Presidente Dutra Highway, passing through São José before reaching São Francisco. This journey is longer, taking up to 3 hours to reach the center of São Francisco, but it’s well worth the effort!

Is the Pedro David Waterfall Worth Visiting?

Absolutely! This beautiful spot is popular due to its easy accessibility, well-marked paths for seniors and children, and small waterfalls perfect for swimming. One of its best features is that no long hikes are required to reach it. This safe and refreshing spot makes it one of the best attractions in São Francisco Xavier.

Pets are allowed, as long as owners clean up after them. Visitors should be mindful that this is an environmental preservation area that must be kept clean and well-maintained by everyone. The best time to visit is from Monday to Friday for a quieter experience and better photo opportunities, as weekends tend to be crowded.

As with any natural area, caution is advised—some parts of the waterfall are deeper, and the rocks can be slippery. Many visitors come simply to admire the scenery and listen to the soothing sound of cascading water, which is a great idea!

The waterfall is open daily from 7 AM to 6 PM. Note that food and beverages may only be consumed in the designated picnic area. Environmental awareness is key to preserving this beautiful natural retreat.

Rules and Safety Guidelines at Pedro David Waterfall

When visiting Pedro David Waterfall, it’s important to follow certain rules to help preserve the environment and ensure the safety of all visitors. Bringing food, beverages, cans, bottles, plastic packaging, coolers, barbecues, camping tents, sharp objects, or sound equipment to the waterfall area is not allowed. Food and drink consumption is restricted to the picnic area, and alcoholic beverages are prohibited throughout the entire waterfall site, including the picnic area. Additionally, sports activities and religious gatherings are not permitted.

As this is a public and environmentally protected area, it is crucial to be mindful of waste disposal and avoid polluting the site. Pets are welcome, but owners must clean up after them. These measures help keep the waterfall clean and safe for all visitors.

Beyond Pedro David Waterfall, other nature-based activities in the area are worth exploring, such as hiking to Pedra da Onça Peak and Pico Queixo d’Anta, which offer breathtaking panoramic views of the region—perfect for those with extra time to explore.

What to Do in São Francisco Xavier

São Francisco Xavier, affectionately known as "São Chico," is a charming destination filled with mountains and stunning landscapes. It can easily be visited as a day trip from the B&B Hotel São José dos Campos, offering a peaceful escape into nature and a much-needed break from the routine.

Once in São Chico, take time to admire the beautiful country houses and explore the local shops. The town strikes a perfect balance between urbanism and sustainability, with a strong environmental commitment.

For leisure activities, São Chico offers numerous mountain trails, providing a spectacular natural display. The local craftsmanship is also worth checking out—visit cozy shops like Dona Xica Café, where you can find beautifully hand-decorated glasses, a perfect souvenir to take home!