Nego Waterfall | Canastra Roots

The trip to Serra da Canastra took place over six days, divided into two distinct moments: three days on the northern side of the mountain, based in São Roque de Minas, and three days on the southern side, in the Olhos d’Água region, near Delfinópolis. The goal was to experience Canastra authentically, valuing nature, people, and local culture — what is known as Canastra roots.

I was accompanied throughout the journey by my girlfriend Joyce, my travel and discovery partner. To tackle the dirt roads, trails, and more rustic accesses, we relied on my 'tank car', as some jokingly refer to it: a Suzuki Jimny, essential for reaching less explored and uniquely charming places.

In the first few days, we stayed in a chalet booked through Airbnb, where we were warmly welcomed by the owner, Denis, an extremely attentive person who shared various tips about waterfalls, trails, and dining spots in the area. Among the suggestions was the well-known restaurant Velho Chico, an experience that deserves to be shared another time.

An important detail is that the Nego Waterfall was about 4 km from the chalet, which greatly facilitated our movement and allowed us to enjoy the outing at a leisurely pace.

The first waterfall visited during the trip was the Nego Waterfall, located within a private property. With the Jimny, we were able to reach the property's main house before continuing on foot along the trail. We were warmly received by the owners, simple, humble, and welcoming people who carefully guided us along the way to the waterfall. A fee of R$ 25.00 per person was charged for access to the area, a fair price to enjoy a true natural paradise.

The owners make a living from dairy cattle, which is the basis for producing the traditional Canastra cheese, keeping a tradition alive that has been passed down through generations.

The walk to the Nego Waterfall was a show in itself. The trail passes through the mountain cuts, in a typical cerrado landscape, with open fields and resilient vegetation. Along the way, we encountered a few loose cows, a simple presence that added even more charm and authenticity to the experience.

As we approached the waterfall, we were enchanted by the beauty of that waterfall. The scene impressed with its harmony, as if every element — the rocks, the flow of water, and the waterfall itself — had been carefully chosen and positioned. The water flowed down with strength and elegance, carving its way between the stones, while the constant sound of the fall filled the entire environment.

Staying there for a few moments brought a rare sensation of pause and contemplation. Time seemed to move at a different pace. The contact with the cold water, contrasting with the dry weather of the cerrado, was invigorating. The rocks shaped by the water's action, the vegetation that emerged between the crevices, and the small natural pools formed different scenes within a few meters, revealing the patient work of nature over time.

Upon returning from the waterfall, we were invited to taste the Canastra cheese produced on-site. While we chatted, the owners suggested a new adventure: follow a difficult access trail that cut through the interior of the land and led to the highest part of the property. From there, it would be possible to reach other waterfall cascades and also observe the main fall from above.

We immediately accepted the offer. The route began with crossing a muddy pasture until we reached a rustic road, allowed only for 4x4 vehicles. From there, the landscape opened up into a splendid view, with a stream accompanying part of the path, making the journey even more special.

Along this route, new waterfalls and natural pools emerged, perfect for cooling off. This second part of the outing perfectly complemented the experience. I was able to capture striking photographs, both from the lower part of the waterfall, near the main fall, and from the upper part, observing the flow of water before it cascaded down the mountain.

All of this experience was made possible thanks to the hospitality and generosity of the hosts, especially Nivaldo, one of the owners, who guided us during this stage of the journey.

The Nego Waterfall marked the beginning of our journey through the waterfalls of Serra da Canastra. This account marks the first of many waterfalls known throughout the trip, each with its unique characteristics, landscapes, and experiences.

An outing that will forever linger in the memory of both my girlfriend Joyce and me, marked by natural beauty, unexpected adventure, simplicity, and the hospitality that faithfully translates the essence of Canastra roots.