Family Adventure in the Heart of Brazil: Exploring Chapada dos Veadeiros

A Day of Waterfalls and Wonders

Today was a day of embracing the raw, untamed beauty of Chapada dos Veadeiros. With the family in tow, we set out to explore the legendary Couros Waterfalls and then ascend to the Mirante da Estrela for a sunset serenade. It was a day filled with the invigorating power of nature and the quiet joy of shared experiences, a true testament to the magic of this Brazilian landscape.


Discover the breathtaking Couros Waterfalls in Alto Paraíso de Goiás, a natural paradise for hiking, swimming, and unforgettable scenery.
Our day began with a hearty breakfast at La Parrilla. I opted for a strong coffee and some fresh fruit, fueling up for the adventures that lay ahead. Aisha chose a delightful pastry, while the children devoured their pancakes with gusto. It’s always a pleasure to start the day with a good meal and the anticipation of what we will discover.

The drive to Couros Waterfalls was an adventure in itself. The road transformed from smooth asphalt to a rugged dirt track, a pathway that tested our vehicle and our resolve. But the promise of cascading waters kept us going. As we bumped along, I couldn't help but reflect on my life back in London, at the British Library, surrounded by the hushed whispers of history. Here, the whispers were of a different kind – the rustling of leaves, the chirping of unseen birds, and the distant roar of the falls.

Upon arrival, we were greeted by the sight of the Couros Waterfalls in all their glory. The sheer scale of the place was breathtaking, multiple cascades plunging down a vast, rocky escarpment. The water was cool and inviting, a welcome respite from the heat of the day. We spent hours exploring the various levels of the falls, each offering a unique perspective and swimming opportunity.

Imani and Farah were in their element, fearlessly leaping into the natural pools and exploring every nook and cranny. Aisha and I watched on, our hearts filled with a mixture of pride and the ever-present parental anxiety. I even managed to capture some stunning photographs, the kind that I know will become treasured memories in our family album.

We found a secluded spot for lunch, a simple picnic of sandwiches and fruit. As we ate, surrounded by the symphony of the falls, I felt a profound sense of gratitude. This was exactly the kind of experience I had hoped for when planning this trip – a chance to disconnect from the everyday and reconnect with each other and with nature.

As the afternoon wore on, we reluctantly packed up our things and began the trek back to the car. The thought of leaving this natural paradise was bittersweet, but we knew we had another adventure waiting for us.

Our next destination was the Mirante da Estrela, a viewpoint known for its panoramic vistas and stunning sunsets. The drive was shorter this time, and soon we were standing at the foot of the hill, ready for a short hike to the summit.

Experience breathtaking panoramic views and serene sunsets at Mirante da Estrela in Alto Paraíso de Goiás.

The trail was well-marked and relatively easy, even for Imani, who sometimes complains about long walks. As we climbed, the views became increasingly spectacular, the vast expanse of Chapada dos Veadeiros stretching out before us like a green and gold tapestry. The air was fresh and clean, carrying the scent of wildflowers and damp earth.

Reaching the Mirante da Estrela was like stepping into another world. The viewpoint itself is marked by a stone circle with a star design, a fitting tribute to the celestial beauty that unfolds here each evening. We found a comfortable spot and settled in to watch the sunset.

In the heart of nature's grandeur, one finds a profound connection to the earth and a renewed appreciation for the simple joys of life.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, the sky exploded with color. Hues of orange, pink, and purple painted the clouds, casting a warm glow over the landscape. It was a breathtaking sight, one that silenced even the usually chatty Imani. We sat in comfortable silence, simply soaking it all in.

I thought of my work at the British Library, surrounded by the silent stories of the past. Here, the story was unfolding before our very eyes, a living, breathing testament to the power and beauty of the natural world.

As darkness descended, we made our way back down the hill, our hearts full of the day's experiences. We stopped at Dendê na Chapada (Acarajé) for a quick bite. I decided to try the Acarajé, a flavorful Bahian street food. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day.

Experience the authentic taste of Acarajé and vibrant local culture at Dendê na Chapada in Alto Paraíso de Goiás.

For dinner, we chose Restaurante Buritis. The hearty meal of pasta was just what we needed after a day of hiking and swimming. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly friendly, making us feel right at home.

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

Back at our campsite, as the children settled into their sleeping bags, Aisha and I sat by the fire, sipping tea and reminiscing about the day. We talked about the waterfalls, the sunset, and the simple joy of being together in this incredible place.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Cachoeira dos Anjos e Arcanjos and hike the Trilha Morro da Baleia. I am eager to see what other wonders Chapada dos Veadeiros has in store for us. The thought of uncovering more hidden gems fills me with excitement.

As I drifted off to sleep, I felt a deep sense of contentment. This trip was turning out to be everything I had hoped for and more. It was a chance to escape the ordinary, embrace the extraordinary, and create memories that would last a lifetime.

Chapada dos Veadeiros, you have captured my heart. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

I am also grateful that we remembered to pack the sunscreen and insect repellent, especially with the kids always running around. However, I am kicking myself for forgetting the portable camping stove; it would have been great to have hot meals readily available at the campsite.

As I reflect on the day, I am reminded of the importance of these moments. They are not just about seeing beautiful places; they are about creating lasting bonds with my family and experiencing the world in a way that enriches our lives. Chapada dos Veadeiros is more than just a destination; it's an experience that will stay with us forever.

And as I close my eyes, I can still hear the gentle roar of the waterfalls and see the vibrant colors of the sunset. These are the memories I will carry with me, long after we have left this magical place.

Goodnight from Chapada dos Veadeiros.