Exploring the Wonders of Chapada dos Guimarães with Friends

A Day of Cascading Beauty

Today was nothing short of magical as we ventured deep into Chapada dos Guimarães National Park. The promise of stunning waterfalls and invigorating hikes had us all buzzing with excitement, and the reality far exceeded our expectations. It was a day filled with laughter, breathtaking views, and the kind of natural beauty that etches itself into your memory.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Bistrô da Mata. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and local delicacies filled the air, setting the perfect tone for our adventure. The bistro itself is a charming spot, with rustic decor that blends seamlessly with the natural surroundings. After fueling up, we packed our essentials – water, sunscreen, and of course, my camera – and set off towards the Circuito das Cachoeiras.


Hike through a series of stunning waterfalls in Chapada dos Guimarães National Park, offering refreshing swims and breathtaking views.

The Circuito das Cachoeiras, or Waterfall Circuit, is a series of seven stunning waterfalls, each with its unique charm. The trail is about 6 kilometers round trip and is considered a moderate hike, perfect for immersing ourselves in the heart of the Cerrado. As we started our trek, the landscape unfolded before us, revealing the raw, untamed beauty of the Brazilian savanna. The towering red rock formations, typical of Chapada, framed the horizon, creating a dramatic backdrop for our adventure. I couldn't resist snapping photos at every turn, trying to capture the grandeur of the scenery.

The first stop on our circuit was the Véu de Noiva waterfall. Even though it is only viewed from afar, the Bridal Veil Falls lived up to its reputation as one of the park's most iconic sights. The water cascaded down with such force and grace, it was mesmerizing. Thando would have loved to see this. I made a mental note to bring Olivia and him back here someday.

As we continued along the trail, the anticipation for our first swim grew. The September heat was already building, with temperatures averaging around 34°C. Thankfully, the promise of a refreshing dip in the cool waters kept us motivated. Our next stop was Cachoeira do Pulo. This waterfall is smaller, but it has a delightful natural pool at its base. Legend has it that the waterfall got its name from the locals jumping off the top of the falls into the pool. I decided to admire it from afar, because my software developer bones aren't as strong as they used to be, and enjoyed the refreshing water.


Discover the stunning Cachoeira do Pulo waterfall in Chapada dos Guimarães, a natural paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

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

The trail wound through the cerrado, offering glimpses of diverse flora and fauna. We spotted vibrant birds flitting through the trees and colorful wildflowers dotting the landscape. The air was filled with the sounds of nature – the rustling of leaves, the chirping of insects, and the constant rush of water. It was a sensory overload in the best possible way.

Next up was Cachoeira da Prainha, a smaller cascade with a sandy area that resembles a beach. It was the perfect spot to relax and soak up the sun after our swim in Cachoeira do Pulo. We laid out our towels, closed our eyes, and let the warmth envelop us. For a moment, I felt completely at peace, disconnected from the stresses of everyday life.

As we continued our journey, we reached Cachoeira do Degrau, named for the stepped rock formations that create a natural staircase for the water to flow down. The unique structure of this waterfall made it particularly picturesque, and I spent a good amount of time trying to capture the perfect shot.

The last waterfall on the circuit was Cachoeira das Andorinhas. This was probably the most beautiful of them all. The waterfall is named after the swallows that nest in the rocks behind the falls. It was a truly magical sight, and we lingered there for a while, simply taking in the beauty of our surroundings.

After completing the Circuito das Cachoeiras, we were famished. We made our way to Restaurante Popular for a late lunch. This self-service restaurant is a local favorite, known for its hearty and affordable meals. I opted for the arroz com frango (rice with chicken), a classic Brazilian dish that hit the spot after our long hike. The food was simple but delicious, and the portions were generous.


Experience authentic Brazilian cuisine at Restaurante Popular in Chapada dos Guimarães - where flavor meets affordability.

With our bellies full, we decided to explore another nearby attraction: Cachoeira do Pulo. Unlike the one on the Waterfall Circuit, this is a separate waterfall, and we were eager to see what it had to offer. A short drive and a brief walk later, we arrived at the falls. This Cachoeira do Pulo was equally stunning, with a powerful cascade and a large, inviting pool at its base. I couldn't resist taking another dip, the cool water providing welcome relief from the afternoon heat.

As the day drew to a close, we made a final stop at Art'inPedra, a local shop known for its unique collection of natural stones and handcrafted jewelry. I'm not usually one for souvenirs, but I was drawn to the beautiful stones on display. I ended up purchasing a small, polished stone as a memento of our incredible day. I'll be sure to tell Thando all about this trip when I get back to Canada.


Explore Art'inPedra, a unique rock shop in Chapada dos Guimarães, offering stunning geological treasures and artistic creations from the heart of Brazil.

For dinner, we chose Restaurante Samambaia, known for its regional cuisine. I decided to try another local favorite. The restaurant had a cozy, unpretentious ambiance, and the staff were friendly and welcoming. It was the perfect way to end our day of adventure.


Experience the essence of Brazilian flavors at Restaurante Samambaia in Chapada dos Guimarães - a culinary delight awaits you.

Tomorrow, we're planning to visit Cachoeira 7 de Setembro and Mirante Geodésico. I've heard great things about both, and I'm excited to see what they have in store for us. And maybe we'll grab a beer at Dona Alice Cerveja Artesanal.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the day, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude. Chapada dos Guimarães has a way of captivating you with its natural beauty and raw energy. It's a place where you can disconnect from the world and reconnect with yourself. And I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.