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

A Day of Nature's Embrace

Today was nothing short of magical as we delved deeper into the heart of Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park. The landscape here is simply breathtaking, a mix of rugged terrain and serene beauty that captivates the soul. I felt an invigorating sense of adventure as we explored cascading waterfalls and mystical gardens, each with its own unique charm. The warmth of the Brazilian sun, tempered by the cool, refreshing spray of the falls, created a perfect symphony of sensations. It was a day where time seemed to slow down, allowing us to fully appreciate the wonders around us.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Restaurante Buritis in São Jorge. The buffet was a delightful spread of local ingredients, and I particularly enjoyed the custom-made pasta, a hearty meal perfect for fueling our adventures. Farah and Imani were excited to create their own pasta dishes, and Aisha and I appreciated the fresh, local flavors. After breakfast, we set off to explore the waterfalls.

Our first stop was the magnificent Almécegas II Waterfall. The hike to the falls was invigorating, with steep sections and stone stairs that tested our endurance. But the view upon arrival was more than worth the effort. The waterfall cascaded down with such power and grace, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. We took some time to swim in the natural pool at the base of the falls, the cool water a welcome respite from the warm September sun. The kids were in their element, splashing around and marveling at the sheer force of nature. The flora surrounding the falls was also stunning, showcasing the rich biodiversity of the region.


Discover the serene beauty of Almécegas II Waterfall in Alto Paraíso de Goiás, a natural haven within the UNESCO-listed Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park.

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

Next on our itinerary was Cachoeira Almécegas I. Reaching this waterfall required a bit more effort, but the reward was even greater. The trail was a little steeper, but the views along the way were simply stunning. Almécegas I plunges down 45 meters, creating a breathtaking veil of water. The pool at the bottom was perfect for a refreshing swim, and we spent a good hour simply soaking in the beauty of our surroundings. I even dared to jump from one of the rocks, feeling an exhilarating rush as I plunged into the icy water – a truly unforgettable experience!


Discover the majestic Almécegas I waterfall in Alto Paraíso de Goiás: a 45-meter cascade, natural pools, and stunning views await!

After our exhilarating waterfall adventures, we drove to Jardim de Maytrea, a place known for its mystical energy and stunning landscapes. As we approached, the vastness of the cerrado dotted with buritis trees and framed by the Serra de Santana and Morro da Baleia was a sight to behold. The light was magical, casting a golden glow over the landscape. We strolled through the gardens, taking in the serene atmosphere and the unique flora of the region.


Discover Jardim de Maytrea in Alto Paraíso de Goiás: a scenic meadow with mystical charm, stunning sunsets, and vibrant flora.

Many believe that Jardim de Maytrea is a portal to another dimension, a place of immense spiritual power. Whether or not that's true, there's no denying the sense of peace and tranquility that permeates this place. We spent some time meditating, connecting with nature, and reflecting on our journey. It was a truly special experience, one that left us feeling rejuvenated and inspired.

For lunch, we stopped at La Parrilla in Alto Paraíso de Goiás. The Uruguayan cuisine was a delightful change of pace, and we savored the grilled meats and flavorful sides. Aisha particularly enjoyed the flan, while the kids devoured the mixed grill. It was the perfect meal to replenish our energy after a day of hiking and exploring. It was a delightful experience, and the kids enjoyed trying new flavors.


Discover La Parrilla in Alto Paraíso de Goiás for an authentic Uruguayan dining experience filled with flavor and warmth.

As the day drew to a close, we decided to experience the sunset at Na Varanda Sunset. This bar offered a stunning view of the cerrado, and we sipped on refreshing drinks as we watched the sun dip below the horizon. The sky was ablaze with color, a breathtaking panorama that perfectly capped off our day of adventure. The atmosphere was relaxed and convivial, and we enjoyed chatting with other travelers and locals alike.


Discover the breathtaking sunsets and vibrant atmosphere at Na Varanda, the ultimate bar experience in Alto Paraíso de Goiás.

For dinner, we ventured to Zu's Bistro, known for its Italian cuisine. The restaurant was simple but charming, and the food was simply divine. I opted for the risotto with local pequi, a unique and flavorful dish that I highly recommend. Aisha enjoyed the homemade pasta, while the kids opted for familiar favorites like spaghetti and meatballs. The personal touch of the owner, who prepares the dishes herself, made the experience all the more special.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Zu's Bistro in Alto Paraíso de Goiás - where every meal feels like a trip to Italy.

As I reflect on today's adventures, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to experience the natural beauty and spiritual energy of Chapada dos Veadeiros. It's a place that truly nourishes the soul, and I am so glad to be sharing it with my family. I also feel a sense of accomplishment, having navigated the trails and embraced the challenges of the day. Even though I forgot the portable camping stove and extra memory cards, we managed to make the most of our time and create lasting memories. I'm already looking forward to tomorrow's adventures, which will take us to the Cachoeira Dos Cristais and Vale da Lua. I have heard so many wonderful things about these places, and I can't wait to see them for myself. Until then, goodnight from Chapada dos Veadeiros!