the cachoeira do mendanha (mendanha waterfall) is located along the rio guandu sapê (guandu sapê river), which flows through the vast campo grande neighborhood in the zona oeste (west zone) of rio de janeiro.

the river's powerful water has formed some beautiful natural formations over the years and there are a number of fine waterfalls, slides, and crystal-clear plunge pools accessible to those who are willing to trek the two or so hours to reach them.

in addition, there is an easier way to reach the falls -if traveling by car visitors can reduce the walk to around 40 minutes but the full hike is significantly more rewarding because the area is one of outstanding natural beauty. the full trial passes through five different waterfalls, all of which are great for swimming, snorkelling, and sunbathing.