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

Saying Goodbye to Paradise

As our nine-day adventure in Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park draws to a close, I find myself filled with a bittersweet mix of gratitude and melancholy. This journey, undertaken with my beloved family, has been nothing short of transformative. The raw beauty of this Brazilian landscape has etched itself into our hearts, leaving us with memories we will cherish for a lifetime. Today, we embraced the final moments, soaking in the last vestiges of this natural paradise.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Zu's Bistro culinária italiana. It might seem odd to start a day of Brazilian exploration with Italian cuisine, but the cozy atmosphere and hearty food were the perfect way to fuel up for our final hike. Aisha, ever the early riser, was already buzzing with excitement, while the kids, Farah and Imani, were slowly waking up, their anticipation growing with each bite of warm bread and sip of strong coffee. I savored the moment, knowing that these simple family breakfasts are the threads that weave together the tapestry of our lives.


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

After breakfast, we set off for Cachoeira Salto 120, one of the park's most iconic waterfalls. The drive itself was a scenic prelude, with the vast Cerrado stretching out on either side, its golden hues shimmering under the morning sun. As we approached the trailhead, the air grew cooler, carrying the promise of cascading waters and refreshing mist. The hike to the waterfall was moderately challenging, with rocky paths and uneven terrain, but the anticipation of the spectacle that awaited us kept our spirits high. Imani, ever the energetic one, took the lead, while Farah, with her keen eye for photography, lagged behind, capturing the intricate details of the flora and fauna along the way. Aisha and I walked hand in hand, reminiscing about our adventures over the past week, our hearts full of shared experiences.


Discover the majestic Cachoeira Salto 120 in Alto Paraíso de Goiás, a perfect blend of adventure and natural beauty.

Reaching Cachoeira Salto 120 was an awe-inspiring moment. The sheer power and grandeur of the waterfall were simply breathtaking. The water plunged down from a great height, creating a thunderous roar that echoed through the canyon. The mist rising from the base of the falls formed a shimmering halo, adding to the ethereal beauty of the scene. We stood in silent reverence, mesmerized by the spectacle before us. Imani, ever the daredevil, was eager to take a dip in the cool waters, while Farah set up her camera, determined to capture the perfect shot. Aisha and I simply sat on a nearby rock, soaking in the moment, our hearts filled with gratitude for the opportunity to witness such natural wonder.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are the ones that leave you speechless, filled with a sense of awe and wonder that transcends words.

After spending a couple of hours at Cachoeira Salto 120, we made our way to Mirante da Trilha dos Saltos, a nearby viewpoint that offered panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The hike to the viewpoint was relatively short, but the climb was steep, requiring a bit of effort. As we ascended, the views became increasingly breathtaking, revealing the vastness and beauty of Chapada dos Veadeiros. Reaching the summit, we were rewarded with a vista that stretched as far as the eye could see. The rolling hills, verdant valleys, and distant plateaus painted a picture of unparalleled beauty. We stood there for a long time, simply taking it all in, our hearts filled with a sense of peace and tranquility.


Witness breathtaking waterfall views and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park from this stunning vista point.

For lunch, we decided to try Restaurante Buritis, known for its traditional Brazilian cuisine. The restaurant was a charming, rustic establishment, with a warm and inviting atmosphere. We ordered a variety of dishes, including feijoada, moqueca, and pão de queijo, each bursting with flavor and authenticity. The meal was a celebration of Brazilian culture and culinary heritage, a fitting tribute to our time in this beautiful country. As we savored the delicious food, we shared stories and laughter, our bonds strengthened by our shared experiences.


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

In the afternoon, we visited Apiário Coração do Cerrado, a local apiary that produces honey and other bee-related products. I was particularly interested in this visit, given my background as an archivist and my fascination with the natural world. The owner of the apiary, a friendly and knowledgeable man, gave us a tour of the facility, explaining the intricate process of honey production and the importance of bees to the ecosystem. We learned about the different types of honey produced in the region, each with its unique flavor and properties. We also had the opportunity to sample some of the honey, which was absolutely delicious. Aisha, always keen on supporting local businesses, purchased a few jars to take back home, while the kids were fascinated by the buzzing bees and the intricate honeycomb structures.


Explore the enchanting world of beekeeping at Apiário Coração do Cerrado, where nature's sweetness awaits in every drop of honey.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to La Parrilla for our final dinner in Chapada dos Veadeiros. The restaurant was a stylish and sophisticated establishment, with a lively and vibrant atmosphere. We ordered a selection of grilled meats, salads, and side dishes, each cooked to perfection. The meal was a fitting culmination to our culinary journey through Brazil, a celebration of flavor and indulgence. As we raised our glasses in a final toast, we expressed our gratitude for the incredible experiences we had shared and the memories we had created. Imani thanked me for bringing them to this amazing place. Farah was already making plans to return someday.


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

Reflecting on our time in Chapada dos Veadeiros, I am struck by the profound impact this journey has had on our family. We have not only witnessed the breathtaking beauty of this natural paradise, but we have also connected with each other on a deeper level. We have laughed, we have cried, and we have shared moments of pure joy and wonder. These are the memories that will sustain us in the years to come, reminding us of the importance of family, adventure, and connection with the natural world.

Tomorrow, we begin our journey back to Brasília, and then onwards to London. While I am eager to return to the familiar comforts of home, I know that a part of me will forever remain in Chapada dos Veadeiros, a place that has captured my heart and soul. As we prepare to leave, I carry with me a renewed sense of appreciation for the beauty and fragility of our planet, and a commitment to protect and preserve it for future generations. I am so glad I got to share this with Aisha and the kids. It is something that I will always treasure. Thank you, Chapada dos Veadeiros, for the memories, the lessons, and the inspiration. Until we meet again.