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The Chapada Diamantina ‘s dive sites are true natural treasures that combine crystal-clear waters, scenic beauty and unique biodiversity, providing unrivalled experiences for divers and nature lovers.
Among the most popular spots are Poço Azul and Poço Encantado, known for their stunningly transparent waters, where the light creates spectacular visual effects, especially at certain times of the year.
Other sites such as Rio Pratinha and Gruta da Pratinha offer dives surrounded by limestone formations, aquatic fauna and exuberant nature, allowing for both floating and snorkelling.
These dive sites are made even more special by their ecological richness and the feeling of a deep connection with the preserved nature of the Chapada.
See the Chapada Diamantina map
Diving spots of Chapada Diamantina
- Pratinha Cave
- Pratinha River
- Blue Well
- Enchanted Well
1. Pratinha Cave
The Pratinha Cave is one of the most enchanting attractions in the Chapada Diamantina, located on the Pratinha Farm, near the municipality of Iraquara, Bahia.
With its crystal-clear turquoise waters, the cave offers a unique diving and floating experience, where you can observe rock formations, small fish and aquatic flora in a protected and fascinating environment.
As you enter the cave, the natural light creates a visual spectacle, highlighting the colour of the water and giving the environment a magical feel. Although it is possible to snorkel inside the cave, respecting the rules of preservation, scuba diving is not allowed in order to protect the fauna and the natural structure of the site.
The Pratinha Cave is part of the experience at Fazenda Pratinha, where visitors can also enjoy the Pratinha River and other activities such as zip-lining, kayaking and swimming areas, making this one of the most complete and sought-after destinations in the Chapada Diamantina.
2. Pratinha River
The Pratinha River is one of the most paradisiacal places in the Chapada Diamantina, located at Fazenda Pratinha, near the municipality of Iraquara, Bahia. Its crystal-clear, turquoise waters are ideal for floating and snorkelling, where visitors can observe underwater fauna and flora in stunning surroundings.
One of the main attractions of the Pratinha River is the Pratinha Cave, where you can snorkel in a setting of unique limestone formations. In addition, there are activities such as zip-lining, kayaking and relaxing bathing areas along the river.
Fazenda Pratinha also offers infrastructure for visitors, including a restaurant and rest areas, making it the ideal place for a day of leisure and direct contact with nature.
3. Blue Well
One of the most famous sites, Poço Azul enchants with its crystal-clear waters, where you can see the submerged rock formation and immerse yourself in a unique floating experience. At certain times, the sunlight creates a spectacle of blue colours.
Several passages form a kind of labyrinth connecting to the underground lake. Several holes have been carved into the rock. Just below the wooden platform is a hole to another chamber. There are skeletons, including that of a giant sloth.
On the opposite shore, which is a larger area, you can find rock formations and small crustaceans.
4. Enchanted Well
Similar to the Blue Well, but with a greater depth and an impressive blue colour, the Enchanted Well has crystal-clear waters that reveal submerged details in up to 60 metres of visibility.
The Poço Encantado is one of the Chapada Diamantina‘s most breathtaking attractions, located in the municipality of Itaetê, Bahia.
Known for its incredibly clear, deep blue waters, the well offers underwater visibility of up to 60 metres.
The enchanting effect of the waters intensifies between the months of April and September, when the sun’s rays penetrate the cave, creating a band of light that illuminates the well and reveals impressive submerged details.
Although diving is forbidden in order to preserve the local ecosystem, the Poço Encantado is a unique visual experience and a must for anyone visiting the Chapada Diamantina. To access it, you have to go down a short trail equipped with stairs.
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