Exploring the Wonders of Chapada dos Guimarães with Friends

Day 6: Emerald Pools and Windy Heights

Today was another incredible day in Chapada dos Guimarães National Park, filled with the kind of natural beauty that makes you feel truly alive. The vibrant landscapes and serene spots we visited today were a feast for the senses, reminding me why I love exploring this beautiful planet. It’s days like these that make me appreciate the simple joys of travel and the profound connections we can make with nature.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Bistrô da Mata. The restaurant is near Morro da Mata, offering a beautiful view of the central area. The exotic names on the menu made it hard to choose, but I finally settled on a traditional Brazilian breakfast of pão de queijo and strong coffee, which set me up perfectly for the day ahead. Olivia and I enjoyed the tranquil atmosphere, a welcome change from the bustling city life we were used to back in Kelowna. It was a great way to start the day, fueling up before diving into the natural wonders that awaited us. As I sipped my coffee, I couldn't help but feel grateful for this opportunity to explore Brazil with my friends, a much-needed break from coding and the digital world.

Our first stop was the mesmerizing Poço das Esmeraldas. The name, meaning Emerald Pools, couldn't have been more fitting. The water had a vibrant, almost otherworldly green hue, thanks to the minerals in the surrounding rocks. The sun was shining, casting a magical glow over the entire area. The walk to the pools was pleasant, and Thando would have loved the short trails and the promise of a refreshing dip. I made a mental note to bring him here someday. The cool water was so inviting, I couldn't resist taking a swim. The water was so clear and refreshing. It was the perfect way to connect with nature and feel completely at peace. Some say the vibrant color of the water has a rejuvenating effect, and I must admit, I felt incredibly refreshed after my swim.


Discover the mesmerizing emerald-green waters of Poço das Esmeraldas, a hidden paradise near Chapada dos Guimarães.

Nature always wears the colors of the spirit. - Ralph Waldo Emerson

After our swim, we spent some time exploring the surrounding area. The trails were easy to navigate, and the lush greenery was a welcome sight. I took the opportunity to capture some photos, trying to capture the beauty of the emerald waters and the vibrant flora. Though I had forgotten my portable phone charger, my camera was fully charged, and I was determined to make the most of it. We even found a secluded spot where we enjoyed a picnic lunch. Simple sandwiches tasted heavenly amidst such natural beauty. As we relaxed by the pools, we shared stories and laughed, strengthening the bonds of our friendship. I thought about my life back in Kelowna, my work as a software developer, and how important it is to step away from the digital world and immerse ourselves in nature. It’s moments like these that remind me of what truly matters.

Next on our itinerary was the Lookout Morro dos Ventos. As we drove up, the landscape began to change, offering glimpses of the vast expanse that awaited us. The lookout is aptly named, as the wind was quite strong, but the panoramic views were more than worth it. From the top, we could see the entire Chapada dos Guimarães National Park stretching out before us. The rugged cliffs, lush green hills, and unique sandstone formations created a breathtaking vista. The views from the lookout are stunning, stretching across vast expanses of green hills and rugged cliffs. The gentle breeze added to the experience, creating a sense of serenity and awe. I took countless photos, trying to capture the grandeur of the landscape. The lookout point is well-maintained and easily accessible, making it a perfect spot for tourists.


Experience stunning panoramic views at Lookout Morro dos Ventos, a scenic gem in Chapada dos Guimarães, Brazil, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

The Morro dos Ventos also features a restaurant, and we decided to have lunch there. The Restaurante Morro dos Ventos offers a unique dining experience with panoramic views of the Chapada. I opted for a traditional Brazilian dish, feijoada, while my friends tried other regional specialties. The food was delicious, and the view made it even more enjoyable. It was a perfect way to relax and soak in the beauty of the surroundings. The restaurant provides ample seating and adheres to strict safety protocols, ensuring a comfortable and safe dining experience.

In the late afternoon, we made a stop at Leo Rocha Arte Indígena. I’ve always been fascinated by indigenous art and culture, and this shop was a treasure trove of unique artifacts. Leo Rocha is committed to valuing and restoring native culture. I had a great conversation with the owner, learning about the history and significance of the various pieces. I ended up buying a small, hand-carved wooden sculpture as a memento of our trip. It felt good to support local artisans and take home a piece of Brazilian culture. The intricate details and craftsmanship were truly impressive, and I knew it would be a conversation starter back home.


Discover the rich heritage of Indigenous craftsmanship at Leo Rocha Arte Indígena in Chapada dos Guimarães, where art and culture intertwine.

For dinner, we decided to try Restaurante Penhasco. The restaurant offers regional cuisine with a panoramic view. We arrived just in time to catch the sunset, which painted the sky in vibrant hues of orange and pink. The view from the restaurant was simply stunning. I chose the Pintado ao Molho Cítrico, a local fish dish that was absolutely divine. The citrus sauce added a zesty flavor that complemented the fish perfectly. My friends enjoyed their meals as well, and we all agreed that Restaurante Penhasco was the perfect place to end our day. The restaurant also has a bar that serves executive dishes every day. The combination of great food and breathtaking scenery made it a truly memorable experience.


Discover delectable desserts and fresh salads at Restaurante Penhasco in beautiful Chapada dos Guimarães - a sweet escape into nature's embrace.

As the day drew to a close, we reflected on our adventures. Chapada dos Guimarães had once again exceeded our expectations. The emerald waters of Poço das Esmeraldas, the panoramic views from Morro dos Ventos, and the cultural richness of Leo Rocha Arte Indígena had all left a lasting impression. I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to explore this beautiful part of Brazil with my friends. These are the moments that make life worth living, and I knew that these memories would stay with me long after we returned home.

Tomorrow, we’re planning to visit Cachoeira Encantada and Canions Do Jamacá/Rota do Índio. I'm excited to see what other hidden gems Chapada dos Guimarães has in store for us. We’ll be having breakfast at Restaurante Popular, lunch at Restaurante Samambaia, and dinner at O LUGAR. We might even check out Cervejaria Xaraés for a few drinks.

Until then, boa noite from Chapada dos Guimarães!