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

Day 8: Chasing Waterfalls and Finding Serenity in Chapada dos Veadeiros

A day of cascading beauty and tranquil moments at Cachoeira do Lajeado and Cachoeira das Loquinhas. Family memories made in Brazil's heartland.

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Whispers of the Waterfalls


Today was a symphony of water and light, a day where the raw beauty of Chapada dos Veadeiros seeped into our souls. It was a day of family, of exploration, and of finding peace in the heart of Brazil's wilderness. The air was thick with the scent of damp earth and the promise of adventure as we set out, ready to embrace whatever the day held.


Our morning began, as most mornings here have, with a hearty breakfast at Restaurante Buritis. The aroma of fresh coffee mingled with the sweet scent of local fruits, fueling us for the day's adventures. Aisha, ever the early bird, was already snapping photos of the vibrant flowers in the garden, while the children, Farah and Imani, eagerly discussed the waterfalls we were about to visit.


Our first stop was Cachoeira do Lajeado. The drive there was an experience in itself, the landscape unfolding before us like a living tapestry. The Cerrado vegetation, with its gnarled trees and resilient shrubs, painted a picture of nature's tenacity. As we approached the waterfall, the sound of rushing water grew louder, a tantalizing prelude to the spectacle that awaited us.


And what a spectacle it was! Cachoeira do Lajeado is a cascade of pure, unadulterated beauty. The water plunged down the rocks with a thunderous roar, creating a misty veil that shimmered in the sunlight. We spent hours exploring the area, each of us finding our own little corner of paradise. Imani, ever the adventurous one, dared to swim in the cool waters, his laughter echoing through the canyon. Farah, with her artistic eye, captured the scene with her camera, determined to preserve the moment forever. Aisha and I simply sat on the rocks, hand in hand, marveling at the sheer power and grace of nature.

Discover Cachoeira do Lajeado in Alto Paraíso de Goiás: Swim in crystal-clear waters and explore scenic trails in a Brazilian paradise.
Discover Cachoeira do Lajeado in Alto Paraíso de Goiás: Swim in crystal-clear waters and explore scenic trails in a Brazilian paradise.


I found myself reflecting on my work at the British Library, surrounded by the silent stories of the past. Here, in Chapada dos Veadeiros, the earth itself was telling a story, a story of creation, of resilience, and of enduring beauty. It was a story I felt privileged to witness, a story I wanted to share with the world.


To walk in nature is to witness a thousand miracles.

After a fulfilling morning at Lajeado, our stomachs began to rumble, leading us to La Parrilla for lunch. The restaurant offered a delightful array of Brazilian dishes, and we savored every bite, recounting our favorite moments from the morning. The kids were particularly fond of the pão de queijo, a local cheese bread that quickly became a family favorite.


With renewed energy, we ventured to our next destination: Cachoeira das Loquinhas. This was a different experience altogether. Unlike the grand spectacle of Lajeado, Loquinhas was a series of smaller, interconnected waterfalls, each with its own unique charm. The crystal-clear waters flowed through a network of natural pools, inviting us to take a refreshing dip. The kids were in their element, splashing and playing in the cool waters, their joy infectious.

Discover emerald pools and gentle waterfalls on easy trails at Cachoeira das Loquinhas, a perfect family escape in Alto Paraíso de Goiás.
Discover emerald pools and gentle waterfalls on easy trails at Cachoeira das Loquinhas, a perfect family escape in Alto Paraíso de Goiás.


Aisha and I followed at a more sedate pace, enjoying the tranquility of the surroundings. The air was filled with the chirping of birds and the rustling of leaves, creating a soothing symphony that washed away the stresses of everyday life. I took the opportunity to practice my photography, trying to capture the ethereal beauty of the waterfalls. It's a hobby I've come to enjoy more and more, a way to freeze moments in time and share them with others.


As the sun began to dip below the horizon, we made our way back to Alto Paraíso de Goiás, our hearts full of gratitude for the day's experiences. We decided to treat ourselves to dinner at Zu's Bistro culinária italiana, a surprising find in the heart of Brazil. The pasta was delicious, a comforting reminder of home, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day.


Before heading back to our guesthouse, we made a spontaneous stop at Na Chapada.Kombi Beer. The atmosphere was lively, with locals and tourists mingling and enjoying the evening air. I sampled a local craft beer, while Aisha opted for a refreshing caipirinha. The kids enjoyed some juice and snacks, and we all soaked in the vibrant energy of the place.


As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can still hear the whispers of the waterfalls, feel the cool spray on my skin, and see the smiles on my family's faces. It was a day of pure magic, a day that will forever be etched in my memory. Chapada dos Veadeiros has a way of captivating you, of drawing you into its embrace and leaving you breathless with its beauty. I am so grateful to be here, to share this experience with my family, and to share it with you, my readers.


Tomorrow marks the last day of our adventure here in Chapada dos Veadeiros. We plan to visit Cachoeira Salto 120 and Mirante da Trilha dos Saltos, hoping to soak in every last bit of this magical place before we have to leave. We'll also make a stop at Apiário Coração do Cerrado to pick up some local honey, a sweet reminder of our time here. I am already feeling a tinge of sadness knowing that our journey is coming to an end, but I am also filled with anticipation for the memories we will create tomorrow. Until then, goodnight from Brazil!

Go to day 7 Unveiling Secrets and Horizons: A Day of Discovery in Chapada dos Veadeiros
Go to day 9 A Farewell to Wonder: Reflecting on Chapada dos Veadeiros
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Family Adventure in the Heart of Brazil: Exploring Chapada dos Veadeiros

Join us as we explore the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant biodiversity of Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park with the family.

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Meet this Featured Explorer

Juma Juma
  • Occupation icon Occupation: Archivist specializing in African history at the British Library
  • Country icon Country: United Kingdom
  • Age icon Age: 51

Habari! I'm Juma, an archivist with a passion for African history and culture. Born and raised in Tanzania, I now call London home, but my heart forever wanders the globe. Through Evendo, I share my travel experiences, blending personal stories with historical context and cultural insights. Join me as I explore the world, seeking authentic experiences and connecting with local communities. Together, we'll uncover the hidden gems and celebrate the diverse tapestry of our world.

Interests:
  • African history
  • Cultural heritage
  • Global affairs
  • Photography
  • Documentary films
More about Juma Juma

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