Exploring the Natural Wonders of Chapada dos Veadeiros

A Day of Crystal Waters and Moon Rocks

Today was nothing short of magical. Chapada dos Veadeiros continues to surprise and enchant me with its otherworldly beauty. From cascading waterfalls to landscapes that resemble the moon, it felt like stepping into another world. The experiences of today will forever be etched in my memory, and I can't wait to share every detail with you.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Restaurante Buritis in São Jorge. The buffet was amazing, and I loved that you could select your ingredients and have a fresh pasta dish made right in front of you. Fuelled up and ready for adventure, we set off to explore the famed Cachoeira dos Cristais. The drive there was beautiful, offering glimpses of the vast landscapes that define this region.

The Cachoeira dos Cristais, just a short drive from Alto Paraíso, was a refreshing escape. The name doesn't lie; the waters were indeed crystal clear, cascading down a series of small falls and forming inviting natural pools. The hike to get to the waterfalls was easy, about 800 meters, making it accessible for everyone in our group. I even managed to convince Jan to come for a dip, and he loved it. As someone who enjoys cycling through Amsterdam's canals, he found the natural pools to be a refreshing change of pace. The sun was warm, the water cool, and the company perfect. I couldn't have asked for a better start to the day. We spent hours exploring each little waterfall, each one offering a unique perspective and a tranquil spot to soak in the beauty of nature.


Discover the crystal-clear waters and tranquil trails of Cachoeira dos Cristais, a refreshing natural escape in Chapada dos Veadeiros, Brazil.

The beauty of Chapada dos Veadeiros lies not just in its landscapes, but in the profound sense of connection it fosters with nature.

After a morning of chasing waterfalls, our appetites were calling, and we headed back towards Alto Paraíso de Goiás for lunch. We decided on Zu's Bistro, known for its Italian cuisine. The restaurant was cozy, and the aroma of homemade pasta filled the air. I opted for a risotto with local pequi fruit, while Jan, ever the traditionalist, chose a classic lasagna. Both dishes were delicious, and it was the perfect spot to refuel after our morning adventure.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we ventured towards our next destination: Vale da Lua, or Moon Valley. As we approached, the landscape began to transform, and it felt as if we were entering another world. The rock formations were unlike anything I had ever seen, sculpted over millennia by the São Miguel River. The smooth, undulating surfaces and the deep, dark potholes gave the area an otherworldly appearance, justifying its lunar moniker.

Walking through Vale da Lua felt surreal. The rocks were cool to the touch, and the silence was broken only by the gentle sound of the river flowing through the formations. We spent hours exploring the area, taking photos, and marveling at the unique geological formations. It was easy to see why this place is considered one of the main attractions of Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park. The short trail was manageable, and I felt a sense of awe with every step. I even spotted a few small fish swimming in the deeper pools, a testament to the resilience of life in this seemingly barren landscape.


Explore Brazil's Vale da Lua: Hike through otherworldly rock formations, swim in natural pools, and discover a lunar-like landscape.

As the sun began to set, we made our way back to Alto Paraíso, but not before making a quick stop at Jacarandá bar e Petiscaria. We enjoyed some local snacks and drinks, reflecting on the incredible day we had experienced. The atmosphere was lively, and it was a great way to unwind and soak in the local vibe.


Discover the vibrant flavors and friendly atmosphere of Jacarandá Bar e Petiscaria in Alto Paraíso de Goiás, a must-visit for every traveler.

For dinner, we chose La Parrilla, an Argentinian and Uruguayan restaurant known for its grilled meats. The aroma of the grill was enticing, and we were excited to try some authentic South American cuisine. Jan and I shared a parrillada platter, a selection of grilled meats that were cooked to perfection. The flavors were rich and savory, and it was the perfect way to end our day of exploration. The staff were attentive, adding a personal touch to the dining experience.


Discover La Parrilla in Alto Paraíso de Goiás for an authentic Uruguayan dining experience filled with flavor and warmth.

As I sit here writing this, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences of today. Chapada dos Veadeiros has a way of captivating your senses and reminding you of the beauty and power of nature. I am also immensely grateful for the company of my friends; sharing these moments with them has made the experience even more special.

Tomorrow, we plan to hike the Trilha Morro da Baleia and visit Poço das Esmeraldas, two more gems in this natural paradise. I'm also hoping to find some unique souvenirs at Loja de trilha - On The Rocks Aventuras Chapada dos Veadeiros. I am particularly excited about the hike, as I have heard the views from Morro da Baleia are breathtaking.

Before I sign off, I must mention something that tickled me pink today. As I was taking photos at Vale da Lua, I realized I had forgotten my sun hat! It's quite unlike me to forget something so essential, especially considering how much I harp on about sun protection. I guess even a seasoned traveler like me has her moments. Thankfully, one of my friends had an extra, and I was saved from the harsh Brazilian sun.

Chapada dos Veadeiros continues to surprise and inspire me. I am so grateful for this opportunity to explore its wonders and share them with you. Stay tuned for more adventures tomorrow! I have a feeling this trip will be one for the books.