Family Adventure in Chapada Diamantina National Park

Whispers of the Valley

Today, Francisca, Nilton, and I ventured deep into the heart of Chapada Diamantina, a journey that felt like stepping back in time. The landscapes spoke of ancient stories, and the rhythm of our footsteps echoed the resilience of the land. It was a day filled with challenges and rewards, a true test of our family's spirit, and an immersion into the raw beauty of Brazil.

Our day began, as many do on this trip, with a simple yet sustaining breakfast amidst the wilderness of Chapada Diamantina National Park. The rising sun painted the sky with hues of orange and pink, a gentle promise of the adventures that lay ahead. Vale do Pati was our destination, a place I had read so much about, a trek considered by many to be one of the most beautiful in Brazil. As a tour guide who relishes history, I was eager to experience this place where nature and time seemed to dance together. I knew this wouldn't be a stroll in Lisbon; Vale do Pati demands respect and preparation.


Discover Vale do Pati, Brazil: Hike through breathtaking landscapes, immerse in local culture, and disconnect in this natural paradise.

The trek through Vale do Pati was nothing short of breathtaking. The scale of the valley is immense, dwarfing us as we navigated the trails. Nilton, ever the curious one, peppered me with questions about the rock formations and the unique vegetation. Francisca, with her keen eye for detail, spotted several bird species, adding to our growing list of Chapada's avian inhabitants. The air was thick with the scent of damp earth and wildflowers, a symphony of natural aromas that invigorated our senses. The trails wind through verdant hills, and at times, they became slick and muddy, testing our resolve.

The deeper we ventured into Vale do Pati, the more I felt a connection to the land, a sense of belonging that transcended time and place.

We paused for lunch at Restaurante Sabor da Serra, a welcome respite after hours of trekking. The hearty, home-cooked meal was a delicious taste of local cuisine, fueling us for the afternoon's adventures. Sharing stories with fellow hikers, we learned of hidden trails and secret viewpoints, each tale adding to the allure of Chapada Diamantina. I made a mental note to explore some of these lesser-known paths, perhaps on a solo excursion, allowing me to fully absorb the tranquility of the landscape.


Experience authentic Bahian cuisine at Restaurante Sabor da Serra in Lençóis - where every dish tells a story.

Our ultimate destination for the day was Cachoeira do Sossego, a waterfall that promised both beauty and a well-deserved rest. The trail to the waterfall was challenging, requiring us to traverse rocky paths and navigate the riverbed. At some points, we had to clamber over boulders, testing our agility and teamwork. Nilton, surprisingly, proved to be quite the agile climber, his small frame allowing him to navigate the obstacles with ease. Francisca, ever cautious, took her time, ensuring each step was secure. I couldn't help but feel a surge of pride as I watched my family conquer the challenges of the trail.


Discover the hidden paradise of Cachoeira do Sossego in Chapada Diamantina: a challenging hike to a rewarding waterfall oasis.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, we arrived at Cachoeira do Sossego. The sight of the cascading water was truly rewarding. The waterfall, with its 85 meters of falling water, plunges into a deep pool, surrounded by towering canyon walls. The canyon walls themselves reach up to 90 meters. The water was cool and refreshing, washing away the sweat and fatigue of the trek. We spent a blissful hour swimming in the pool, letting the cascading water massage our tired muscles. Nilton, of course, was in his element, splashing and playing with unbridled joy. Francisca, initially hesitant, eventually succumbed to the allure of the water, her laughter echoing through the canyon. I savored the moment, grateful for the opportunity to share this natural wonder with my family.

As the sun began to dip below the horizon, we reluctantly began our trek back. The return journey was just as challenging, but the memory of Cachoeira do Sossego spurred us on. We arrived back at our campsite as darkness descended, exhausted but exhilarated. After a simple dinner, we gathered around the campfire, sharing stories and reliving the day's adventures. Nilton, still buzzing with energy, regaled us with tales of his daring climbs and daring dives. Francisca, with a contented smile, spoke of the beauty of the waterfall and the joy of swimming in its cool waters. I listened, my heart full of gratitude for the experiences we were sharing as a family.

Before heading back to camp for dinner, we stopped by Quinca's Botequim. The bar was alive with music and laughter, a welcome contrast to the solitude of the trail. We ordered a round of local cocktails, savoring the unique flavors of Bahia. Nilton, of course, opted for a non-alcoholic concoction, his eyes wide with curiosity as he watched the bartender mix the ingredients. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and we soon found ourselves chatting with fellow travelers, sharing stories and tips. It was a perfect end to a day of adventure, a reminder that travel is not just about seeing new places but also about connecting with new people.


Discover the lively spirit of Quinca's Botequim, a vibrant bar in Lençóis serving exquisite drinks and local bites in a warm atmosphere.

As I lay in my tent, listening to the sounds of the Chapada night, I reflected on the day's journey. Vale do Pati had challenged us, both physically and mentally, but it had also rewarded us with unforgettable experiences. We had witnessed breathtaking landscapes, conquered demanding trails, and connected with the raw beauty of nature. More importantly, we had strengthened our bond as a family, sharing moments of joy, laughter, and perseverance. As I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation for the adventures that awaited us tomorrow. Tomorrow we visit Poço Encantado and Poço Azul, and I am excited to experience their beauty.

Chapada Diamantina continues to surprise and inspire me. I am reminded of the simple pleasures in life: the beauty of nature, the love of family, and the joy of discovery. These are the treasures I seek on my travels, the experiences that enrich my life and shape my perspective. And as I continue this journey, I am grateful for the opportunity to share these moments with you, my readers, in the hope that you too will be inspired to seek out your own adventures and discover the wonders that await you in this beautiful world.

Tomorrow, we set our sights on Poço Encantado and Poço Azul, two more of Chapada Diamantina's natural wonders. I've heard tales of their crystal-clear waters and enchanting beauty, and I can't wait to experience them firsthand. Nilton is already buzzing with excitement, eager to dive into the turquoise depths. Francisca, ever the pragmatist, is more concerned about the logistics of getting there, but I know that once she sees the beauty of these natural pools, she will be just as captivated as we are. And perhaps we'll stop by MUNDO NATURAL, a shop I've heard has some interesting local crafts. I'm always on the lookout for unique souvenirs to bring back to Lisbon, mementos that will remind us of our adventures in Brazil.