Exploring the Natural Wonders of Chapada dos Veadeiros

A Day of Waterfalls and Wonders

Today was a symphony of nature's finest offerings. From the rejuvenating embrace of cascading waterfalls to the mesmerizing dance of the sunset, Chapada dos Veadeiros continued to unveil its magic. It was a day filled with laughter, shared moments with friends, and a profound connection with the raw beauty of Brazil.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Restaurante Buritis in São Jorge. The buffet of made-to-order pasta was exactly what we needed to fuel up for a day of hiking and waterfall chasing. It reminded me of the fresh markets back in Kenya, where you can pick your ingredients and have them cooked right in front of you. After filling our bellies with delicious pasta, we set off to explore the natural wonders that Chapada dos Veadeiros is so famous for.


Experience authentic Brazilian cuisine at Restaurante Buritis in Alto Paraíso de Goiás - a culinary gem celebrating local flavors.

Our first stop was Cachoeira do Encontro. The drive there was an adventure in itself, the landscape transforming into a canvas of vibrant greens and earthy reds. The closer we got, the more the air filled with the sounds of nature – birds chirping, leaves rustling, and the distant roar of the waterfall. Reaching the trailhead, we laced up our hiking boots, double-checking our essentials, and started our trek. I was glad I had my hiking boots, even though I forgot my sunhat!

The trail to Cachoeira do Encontro was relatively easy, winding through lush vegetation and offering glimpses of the breathtaking scenery that awaited us. As we hiked, I couldn't help but reflect on how different this landscape was from the bustling streets of Amsterdam. Here, nature reigned supreme, and we were merely visitors in its grand domain. The anticipation grew with each step, and soon enough, we could see it: Cachoeira do Encontro. The waterfall was a sight to behold, its waters cascading down with a thunderous roar into a refreshing pool below. We wasted no time in diving in, the cool water washing away the sweat and fatigue from our hike. Swimming under the falls felt like receiving nature's blessing, an invigorating experience that left us feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.


Discover the serene beauty of Cachoeira do Encontro in Alto Paraíso de Goiás, where pristine waters converge in a stunning natural landscape.

After thoroughly enjoying Cachoeira do Encontro, we packed up and headed towards our next destination: Cachoeira dos Anjos e Arcanjos. This was a location that my friends had been particularly excited about, having seen numerous pictures of its beauty online. The trail to Cachoeira dos Anjos e Arcanjos was a bit more challenging than the previous one, with some steep descents that required careful footing. However, the challenge only added to the sense of adventure, and we took our time, helping each other navigate the trickier parts of the trail. The effort was more than worth it. Cachoeira dos Anjos e Arcanjos is actually two waterfalls. Cachoeira dos Anjos, the first waterfall we encountered, was a vision of ethereal beauty, its waters cascading down smooth rocks into a crystal-clear pool. The sunlight filtering through the trees created a magical ambiance, casting a soft glow on everything it touched.


Discover the hidden gems of Chapada dos Veadeiros at Cachoeira dos Anjos e Arcanjos, where tranquil waterfalls and natural beauty await.

Cachoeira dos Arcanjos, located a bit further down the trail, was equally stunning. Its waters plunged into a spacious pool, perfect for swimming and relaxing. We spent hours swimming in the cool waters, marveling at the natural beauty that surrounded us. The falls were powerful, and the water was so clear. It felt like we were swimming in liquid diamonds.

The beauty of Chapada dos Veadeiros lies not only in its stunning landscapes but also in the sense of peace and connection it fosters within us.

For lunch, we decided to try Zu's Bistro, an Italian restaurant in Alto Paraíso de Goiás. After a day of hiking and swimming, we were all craving something hearty and comforting, and Zu's Bistro did not disappoint. The aroma of freshly baked bread and simmering sauces filled the air as we stepped inside, instantly transporting me back to the cozy trattorias of Italy. I opted for a risotto with chicken and pequi, a local fruit. The combination of flavors was exquisite, a testament to the chef's skill and creativity. My friends tried different pasta dishes, and everyone raved about their meals. Zu's Bistro was the perfect place to refuel and recharge before our final adventure of the day.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Zu's Bistro in Alto Paraíso de Goiás - where every meal feels like a trip to Italy.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Bar do Mirante, a spot known for its stunning sunset views. Located in São Jorge, the bar offered a panoramic vista of the surrounding landscape, a perfect setting to witness the sun bid farewell to another day. We arrived early to secure a good spot, and as we waited for the sun to set, we sipped on refreshing cocktails and enjoyed the lively atmosphere. The crowd was a mix of locals and tourists, all drawn by the allure of the breathtaking view. As the sun began its descent, the sky transformed into a canvas of vibrant colors – oranges, pinks, purples, and reds blending seamlessly together. It was a sight that took our breath away, a moment of pure magic that we shared with everyone around us. The sunset at Bar do Mirante was the perfect ending to a perfect day.


Discover the enchanting sunset views and vibrant cocktail creations at Bar do Mirante in Alto Paraíso de Goiás, a must-visit destination for tourists.

For dinner, we headed to La Parrilla, an Argentinian/Uruguayan restaurant in Alto Paraíso de Goiás. I decided to try the parrillada platter, a selection of grilled meats that offered a true taste of Uruguay. Each cut of meat was cooked to perfection, tender and flavorful. The chimichurri sauce added a zesty kick, complementing the richness of the meat. My friends ordered other dishes, and everyone was equally impressed with the quality and taste of the food. La Parrilla was a delightful culinary experience, a fitting end to a day filled with adventure and natural beauty.


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

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences I had today. Chapada dos Veadeiros has a way of captivating your senses and nourishing your soul. It's a place where you can disconnect from the stresses of modern life and reconnect with the beauty of nature.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Couros Waterfalls and Jardim de Maytrea. I've heard so many wonderful things about these places, and I can't wait to see them for myself. I'm also looking forward to visiting Arte Nossa - a loja da Nêga, a local shop that showcases the work of talented artisans. I'm always on the lookout for unique souvenirs that reflect the culture and spirit of the places I visit.

Until then, good night from Chapada dos Veadeiros. I can't wait to share more of my adventures with you all.

P.S. I'm still kicking myself for forgetting the insect repellent. The mosquitoes here are quite persistent, and I've already accumulated a few bites. Note to self: always double-check the essentials list!

The time here in Alto Paraíso de Goiás is 5:53 AM , and it’s time for me to get some sleep.