Exploring the Wonders of Chapada dos Guimarães with Friends

Day 3: Waterfalls and Wonders
Today was a day of exploration and natural beauty here in Chapada dos Guimarães. From chasing waterfalls to standing at the geodesic center of South America, every moment was filled with awe and wonder. It's days like these that remind me why I love to travel, to experience new places and share them with you all.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Restaurante Trapiche Regionalissimo. This place is a local gem, serving up a buffet of regional specialties that truly set the tone for the day. I indulged in *ventrecha de pacu* (pacu belly) and *Maria Isabel* (a flavorful rice and beef dish), fueling up for the adventures that lay ahead. The vibrant flavors and cozy atmosphere made it the perfect start to our Friday. I made sure to grab a coffee, thinking about Olivia and Thando back home in Kelowna. I miss our weekend breakfasts together, but I know they're cheering me on from afar.

With our bellies full, we set off to Cachoeira 7 de Setembro. The drive itself was scenic, with the characteristic red soil and lush vegetation of the Chapada region surrounding us. As we neared the falls, the sound of rushing water grew louder, building anticipation for the sight that awaited us. I was traveling with friends, and we were all excited to see the waterfalls.

The trail to Cachoeira 7 de Setembro was relatively easy, a welcome change after some of the more challenging hikes we've done in the past few days. The path wound through the cerrado, offering glimpses of the surrounding landscape. The anticipation grew with each step, and soon enough, we arrived at the waterfall. The waterfall requires a medium physical preparation.

Cachoeira 7 de Setembro is a sight to behold. The water cascades down with force and grace, creating a refreshing mist that kisses your skin. We spent a good amount of time simply admiring the view, taking photos, and soaking in the natural beauty. It’s easy to see why this spot is so popular among locals and tourists alike. I remember thinking about Thando and how much he would have loved splashing around in the cool water. Maybe one day I'll bring him here to experience this firsthand.


Discover the tranquil beauty of Cachoeira 7 de Setembro, a highlight of Chapada dos Guimarães' stunning waterfall circuit.

Nature is not a place to visit. It is home.

After our fill of the falls, it was time for lunch. We headed to Estilo Bacalhau & Vinho, a Portuguese restaurant that, surprisingly, fits perfectly into the Chapada scene. I opted for the *bacalhau à brás*, a classic codfish dish with eggs and potatoes. My friends chose other *bacalhau* variations. It was a delightful meal that transported me back to my travels in Portugal a few years ago. The restaurant had a warm and inviting ambiance.

Our final stop for the day was Mirante Geodésico, the geodesic center of South America. The drive up to the *mirante* (viewpoint) was steep, but the panoramic views at the top were well worth the effort. From this vantage point, you can see the vast plains stretching out before you, a truly breathtaking sight. Unfortunately, the *Mirante* is currently closed due to erosion, but that didn't stop us from appreciating the area around it.

The *Mirante Geodésico* is considered the natural monument of the geodesic center of South America. It’s a point equidistant between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. The views from the top are panoramic.

Even though the *Mirante* was closed, we were still able to appreciate the significance of the location. Standing there, at the heart of a continent, I felt a sense of connection to something larger than myself. It was a humbling experience, and one that I'll not soon forget. I took a moment to reflect on my journey, my roots in South Africa, and my current life in Canada. Travel has a way of putting things into perspective, and this was one of those moments.

Before heading back to our accommodation, we made a pit stop at Dona Alice Cerveja Artesanal. This local brewpub is known for its artisanal beers and laid-back atmosphere. After a day of hiking and sightseeing, a cold beer was exactly what we needed. I sampled a couple of their brews, each one unique and flavorful. The brewpub has a welcoming atmosphere. The staff was knowledgeable and passionate about their craft, adding to the overall experience.

For dinner, we decided to try O LUGAR, a restaurant recommended by a local we met earlier in the day. This cozy spot is known for its traditional Brazilian cuisine and warm hospitality. I ordered the *moqueca capixaba*, a seafood stew that was bursting with flavor. It was the perfect way to end our day of exploration and adventure.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences I had today. Chapada dos Guimarães continues to surprise and delight me with its natural beauty and rich culture. I am excited about tomorrow, when we plan to visit Cachoeira do Éden and Rastro da Minhoca. I am looking forward to exploring more of what this region has to offer. I'm also excited to try breakfast at Atmã Restaurante & Pousada and dinner at Pomodori Trattoria.

Until tomorrow, keep exploring and stay curious.