Açude São Gonçalo is a large reservoir located in the district of São Gonçalo, approximately 15 km from the urban center of Sousa, in the sertão of Paraíba, Brazil — about 449 km from João Pessoa, the state capital. The reservoir is fed by the Rio Peixe and was constructed by the Departamento Nacional de Obras Contra as Secas (DNOCS), with construction beginning in 1921 and the official inauguration taking place in 1936. It stands as one of the older and more significant water infrastructure projects in the northeastern interior of Brazil.

Beyond its historical role in addressing water scarcity in the greater Sousa region, the reservoir now serves a strategic function as part of the Eixo Norte of the Projeto de Integração do Rio São Francisco (PISF), releasing water through dispersal valves into the Rio Piranhas-Açu system toward reservoirs in Rio Grande do Norte. This active role in regional water management means that water levels and flow conditions can be subject to operational decisions by water authorities, a factor worth considering when planning a visit.

The reservoir is widely regarded as one of the more visually striking bodies of water in the Paraíba sertão, and it draws visitors as a recognized tourist attraction in the region. The surrounding landscape reflects the semi-arid character of the northeastern interior, with the water body providing a notable contrast to the dry terrain, particularly following periods of rainfall.

Paddlers should contact local authorities or DNOCS directly before planning a paddling trip to confirm current access conditions, available facilities, and any applicable regulations governing recreational use on the water.