Exploring the Natural Wonders of Chapada dos Veadeiros

Arrival in Alto Paraíso: Chapada, Here We Come!

After a long journey from Amsterdam, with a layover in Brasília, I've finally arrived in Alto Paraíso de Goiás, the gateway to Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park. The air is warm and dry, a welcome change from the Dutch summer I left behind. The landscape is already captivating, with its vast plateaus and the promise of hidden waterfalls. I’m here with my friends, and we're all excited to immerse ourselves in the natural beauty and vibrant culture of this region. The adventure begins!

The journey itself was quite something. Flying from Amsterdam to Brasília was smooth enough, but the bus ride to Alto Paraíso was an experience in itself. The roads weren't exactly smooth , but the scenery more than made up for it. As we drove, I couldn't help but think of Kenya, my homeland, with its own stunning landscapes and vibrant culture. This trip feels like a beautiful collision of worlds, a chance to explore new horizons while still feeling connected to my roots.

Our first stop was Restaurante Buritis for breakfast, and it was a delightful introduction to Brazilian cuisine. The buffet of massas (pastas) was a hit, especially the option to customize my plate with various ingredients and sauces. It reminded me of the communal meals back home, where everyone gathers around a table filled with flavors and laughter. I chose a mix of vegetables and a creamy pesto sauce, and it was the perfect fuel for our first day of exploration. It was simple, tasty and very welcome after our travels. I was also reminded of the Spoleto chain of restaurants by the experience.


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

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the simplest moments.

After breakfast, we headed straight for the park entrance. The entrance to the Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park is near São Jorge, a small village with a unique charm. The park itself is a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized for its exceptional natural beauty and biodiversity. The landscape is dominated by the Cerrado, a unique savanna-like ecosystem with low, gnarled trees and diverse flora. The park is home to many threatened animal species, such as the giant armadillo, pampa deer and the jaguar. August falls within the dry season, so the weather is hot and mostly sunny. The average temperature ranges from a high of 33°C to a low of 17°C. Sunscreen and a hat, which I unfortunately forgot, are essential.


Discover breathtaking waterfalls, ancient canyons, and unique Cerrado landscapes at the entrance to Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park near São Jorge, Brazil.

Before hitting the trails, we had a quick briefing at the visitor center. It's mandatory to watch a short video about the park's ecosystem and guidelines. It was informative and instilled a sense of responsibility to protect this natural wonder. There are several trails in the park, each offering a unique experience. We decided to take a shorter, introductory trail to get a feel for the landscape and acclimatize to the altitude.

Lunch at Zu's Bistro was another culinary highlight. This Italian restaurant in Alto Paraíso is known for its homemade pasta and cozy atmosphere. After a morning of walking, we were all ravenous. I opted for a risotto, and it was simply divine. Jan would have loved this place, I thought, as Italian is his favourite type of food. The pasta was perfectly cooked, and the sauce was rich and flavorful. It was the perfect comfort food after a morning of exploring.


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

For dinner, we chose La Parrilla, an Argentinian/Uruguayan restaurant. The restaurant is known for its grilled meats and cozy ambiance. I decided to try one of the steaks, and it was cooked to perfection. The meat was tender and juicy, and the chimichurri sauce added a burst of flavor. It was a satisfying end to a long day.


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

As the day drew to a close, we headed to Na Varanda Sunset for a drink. This bar is located at Fazenda Conceicao and is known for its stunning sunset views and relaxed atmosphere. Sipping on a caipirinha while watching the sun dip below the horizon was the perfect way to end our first day in Chapada. The sky was painted with vibrant colors, and the air was filled with the sound of music. I felt a sense of peace and gratitude for this incredible experience.


Discover the breathtaking sunsets and vibrant atmosphere at Na Varanda, the ultimate bar experience in Alto Paraíso de Goiás.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Cachoeira Almácegas I and II, two waterfalls known for their beauty [If tomorrow is the last day of the trip, merge in “Trip end”]. I'm excited to see more of Chapada's natural wonders and continue this journey of discovery. I’m also hoping I can find a shop where I can buy a sunhat, as I’m sure I’ll need it tomorrow!

Chapada dos Veadeiros has already captured my heart with its stunning landscapes, delicious food, and warm people. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. This is more than just a trip; it's an immersion into a different way of life, a chance to connect with nature and create lasting memories with friends. I'm so grateful for this opportunity, and I can't wait to share more of my adventures with you all. Kwaheri for now!