known as the paraíso das águas cristalinas (heaven of the crsystal wayers), cachoeiras de macacu is one of the largest municipalities in the state of rio de janeiro, yet it remains largely outside the main touristic routes - cachoeras has many rivers, rapids, and waterfalls, and large areas of atlantic forest, home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including wild orchids and tucans.

the 80 waterfalls of macacu range from 3 to 80 meters in height and are scattered amongst the lush green peaks of the city - the adventurous traveler will want to partake in some of the more extreme activities cachoeiras de macacu has to offer.

rappelling, hang gliding, mountain biking, hiking and mountain climbing are amongst some of the fun attractions available in the area - the area isn't exclusive to daredevils, in fact the crystal clear waterfalls that define the region are a freshwater break from the beaches characteristic of the rio de janeiro area.