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

Crystals and Craters: A Day of Wonders

Today was nothing short of spectacular, a true testament to the raw beauty and diverse landscapes that Chapada dos Veadeiros has to offer. From cascading waterfalls to lunar-like valleys, every moment was filled with awe and wonder. Aisha and the children were as excited as I was to immerse ourselves in the natural wonders of this region.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Zu's Bistro culinária italiana in Alto Paraíso de Goiás. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong coffee filled the air, a perfect start to what promised to be an adventurous day. I opted for a hearty plate of eggs and local cheese, while Aisha enjoyed a fruit salad bursting with tropical flavors. The children, of course, went straight for the pastries. It's always a joy to see them embrace new culinary experiences with such enthusiasm. The simplicity of the bistro, with its cozy atmosphere, made us feel right at home, ready for the day’s explorations.

Fuelled up, we set off for Cachoeira dos Cristais, a series of waterfalls located just a short drive from Alto Paraíso. The drive itself was scenic, with the landscape transforming into a tapestry of greens and browns as we approached the falls. The September weather was perfect, hot and breezy, with the sun shining brilliantly. Upon arrival, we were greeted by the sound of rushing water and the sight of lush vegetation. The falls are located 8 km from Alto Paraiso. The complex features several mini-waterfalls and pools.


Discover the crystal-clear waters and tranquil trails of Cachoeira dos Cristais, a refreshing natural escape in Chapada dos Veadeiros, Brazil.

The hike to the main waterfall, Véu da Noiva, was relatively easy, even for Imani and Farah, who sometimes complain about longer treks. The trail meandered through the forest, with glimpses of the cascading water through the trees. The air was fresh and clean, filled with the scent of damp earth and blooming flowers. As we approached the main falls, the sound of the water grew louder, building anticipation. The Véu da Noiva (Bride's Veil) waterfall was a sight to behold, a curtain of water cascading down the rocks into a clear pool below. We spent a good hour swimming in the cool water, letting the falls massage our backs and washing away any lingering stress. It was a truly invigorating experience.

The earth has music for those who listen.

After our refreshing dip, we explored the smaller pools and waterfalls, each with its own unique charm. The kids were particularly fond of the natural water slides, squealing with delight as they滑 down the smooth rocks into the refreshing water. Aisha and I enjoyed watching them, reminiscing about our own childhood adventures in Tanzania and Kenya. I must admit, I felt a pang of longing for the familiar landscapes of my homeland, but Chapada dos Veadeiros was quickly winning me over with its own unique beauty.

Leaving Cachoeira dos Cristais, we drove towards Vale da Lua (Moon Valley), a surreal landscape of rock formations sculpted by the São Miguel River over millions of years. The valley is about 35 km from Alto Paraiso. The drive took us through a landscape that seemed to change every few kilometers, from rolling hills to rocky outcrops. As we approached Vale da Lua, the landscape became increasingly otherworldly, with strange rock formations dotting the horizon. The name 'Moon Valley' is certainly apt; the landscape truly resembles the surface of the moon, with its smooth, cratered rocks and sparse vegetation.


Explore Brazil's Vale da Lua: Hike through otherworldly rock formations, swim in natural pools, and discover a lunar-like landscape.

The walk from the parking area to the valley was short but fascinating, with the anticipation building as we rounded each bend in the trail. As we entered the valley, we were immediately struck by the sheer scale and unique beauty of the landscape. The rocks were smooth and sculpted, with deep pools of water reflecting the clear blue sky. We spent hours exploring the valley, clambering over the rocks, swimming in the pools, and simply marveling at the forces of nature that had created this incredible place.

I couldn't help but feel a sense of wonder and humility as I stood in the midst of this lunar landscape. It was a reminder of the vastness of time and the power of nature to shape our world. I thought about my work as an archivist, preserving the stories of human history, and how insignificant our human endeavors seem in the face of such geological grandeur. Yet, at the same time, I felt a deep connection to the earth, a sense of belonging to something much larger than myself.

Before heading back, we stopped by Arte Nossa - a loja da Néga in Alto Paraíso, a charming rock shop known for its collection of crystals and gemstones. Aisha, with her keen eye for design, was particularly drawn to the handcrafted items, while the children were fascinated by the colorful array of stones. I even picked up a small piece of quartz crystal, a souvenir to remind me of the mystical energy of Chapada dos Veadeiros.


Explore the vibrant rock shop, Arte Nossa - a loja da Néga, in Alto Paraíso de Goiás for unique crystals and artisanal treasures.

For lunch, we stopped at Restaurante Buritis, a local gem in São Jorge. The food was simple, hearty, and delicious, the perfect fuel for our adventurous day. I had the rice and beans with protein, and it was very tasteful. The owner was incredibly friendly, making us feel like welcomed guests. It was a delightful culinary experience that gave us a true taste of Brazilian hospitality.


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

As the sun began to set, we made our way back to our guesthouse, tired but exhilarated. We had dinner at La Parrilla, savoring the flavors of the local cuisine while recounting the day's adventures. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. The kids were already asleep before the main course arrived, a testament to their adventurous spirit.


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

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Couros waterfalls and Mirante da Estrela, hoping for another day filled with natural beauty and unforgettable experiences. We'll start the day with breakfast at La Parrilla, ensuring we're well-prepared for another exciting adventure. We may also check out Dendê na Chapada (Acarajé). Chapada dos Veadeiros continues to surprise and inspire us, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. It's moments like these, surrounded by family and immersed in the wonders of nature, that make life truly extraordinary. Perhaps I'll find a similar sense of wonder when I return to my archival work in London, seeing history not just as dates and events, but as a testament to the enduring spirit of humanity, much like the enduring rocks of this magnificent park.