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

Finding Serenity Amidst Waterfalls and Heights

Today, Chapada dos Veadeiros gifted us with a day of serene beauty and invigorating challenges. We ventured into the heart of the park, seeking out hidden waterfalls and panoramic views that promised to etch themselves into our memories. It was a day where nature's artistry was on full display, a testament to the raw, untamed beauty of Brazil.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Restaurante Buritis. Fuelled up with local delicacies, we set off for Cachoeira dos Anjos e Arcanjos. The drive itself was an adventure, the landscape unfolding before us in layers of green and gold. As we approached the trailhead, the anticipation was palpable. Even Imani, usually glued to his phone, seemed captivated by the unfolding scenery.

The trail to Cachoeira dos Anjos e Arcanjos was a delightful challenge. The path wound through the cerrado, the air thick with the scent of wildflowers and damp earth. Aisha, ever the botanist, pointed out various plants, sharing her knowledge with Farah and Imani, turning the hike into an impromptu lesson on Brazilian flora. The final stretch was a bit steep, testing our resolve, but the promise of cascading waters spurred us onward. I must admit, my years spent poring over historical documents at the British Library hadn't quite prepared me for this physical exertion, but I was determined to keep pace with my family.

Finally, we arrived at Cachoeira dos Anjos e Arcanjos, and the sight was simply breathtaking. Two majestic waterfalls, Anjos and Arcanjos, plunged into crystalline pools, the water shimmering in the dappled sunlight. The kids, without hesitation, plunged into the cool water, their laughter echoing through the gorge. Aisha and I watched, content, as they explored the falls, their youthful energy infectious. I even dipped my toes in, the icy water a welcome contrast to the warm air. The Cachoeira dos Anjos e Arcanjos trail is about 1 km, and the final section is slightly more challenging. You can take the left path to Arcanjos, or the right path to the other two sights.


Discover the hidden gems of Chapada dos Veadeiros at Cachoeira dos Anjos e Arcanjos, where tranquil waterfalls and natural beauty await.

Sometimes, the most profound discoveries are not found in books, but in the embrace of nature's grandeur.

After a refreshing swim and a picnic lunch amidst the stunning scenery, we reluctantly bid farewell to Cachoeira dos Anjos e Arcanjos. Our next destination was Trilha Morro da Baleia, a trail that promised panoramic views of the Chapada. As we drove towards the trailhead, I couldn't help but reflect on the morning's experience. The waterfalls had been more than just a visual spectacle; they had been a balm for the soul, a reminder of the simple joys of life. I felt a sense of connection to this land, a feeling that transcended mere tourism. Perhaps it was the mystical energy that Chapada dos Veadeiros is known for, or perhaps it was simply the power of nature to heal and inspire.

The trailhead for Morro da Baleia was located a short drive from Alto Paraíso de Goiás. As we began our ascent, the landscape transformed, the dense vegetation giving way to open grasslands dotted with gnarled trees. The trail was steep in places, testing our endurance, but the views along the way were ample reward. Farah, with her boundless energy, led the way, her camera clicking incessantly as she captured the stunning vistas. Imani, surprisingly, kept pace, his initial reluctance replaced by a growing sense of wonder. Aisha and I brought up the rear, taking our time, savoring each moment.

Reaching the summit of Morro da Baleia was an accomplishment. The panoramic views were simply awe-inspiring. The vast expanse of the Chapada stretched before us, a tapestry of rolling hills, deep valleys, and distant plateaus. The Jardim de Maytrea, a surreal landscape of twisted trees and rocky outcrops, lay below us, bathed in the golden light of the late afternoon sun. It was a moment of pure, unadulterated beauty, a scene that would forever be etched in our memories. The Morro da Baleia trail is considered difficult because the beginning has a steep climb. The trail to get to the top of Morro da Baleia is approximately 3 km. From the top, you can see the Jardim de Maytrea.


Hike to the summit of Morro da Baleia in Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park for panoramic views of the stunning Brazilian landscape.

As we descended from Morro da Baleia, the sun began to dip below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange, pink, and purple. We paused for a moment, taking in the breathtaking sunset, a perfect end to a perfect day. The Morro da Baleia, which translates to Whale Hill, gets its name from the shape of the hill.

Our day concluded with a delightful dinner at Zu's Bistro culinária italiana. The restaurant, with its cozy ambiance and delicious food, was the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploration. Over plates of pasta and glasses of wine, we recounted our adventures, sharing stories and laughter. Even Imani, usually reserved, opened up, sharing his impressions of the day. It was a moment of genuine connection, a reminder of the bonds that tie us together as a family.


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

Before dinner, we stopped by Kosmo das Artes. The shop was filled with unique pieces, and we ended up buying a few small souvenirs to remind us of our trip. It was a great way to support local artisans and bring a piece of Chapada dos Veadeiros back home with us.


Explore local art and craftsmanship at Kosmo das Artes, a vibrant store in Alto Paraíso de Goiás, showcasing the creative spirit of Brazil.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the experiences of today. Chapada dos Veadeiros has a way of stripping away the superficial, of connecting you to something deeper, something more meaningful. It's a place where you can find serenity amidst waterfalls, inspiration atop towering heights, and connection within the bonds of family. Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Abyss Waterfall and Cachoeira Raizama, and perhaps visit Bar do Mirante in the evening. I am excited to see what new wonders await us.

Chapada dos Veadeiros has a lot of typical food, such as rice with pequi. There are many options for places to eat in Chapada dos Veadeiros, especially in Alto Paraíso and São Jorge.