Family Adventure to Chapada dos Veadeiros

A Day of Secrets and Serenity

Today, Chapada dos Veadeiros revealed more of its magic. It was a day filled with the soothing sounds of cascading water, the vibrant tastes of Brazil, and the kind of peaceful moments that make you feel truly connected to nature. The park continues to surprise and delight me, and I'm eager to share every detail.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Restaurante Buritis in São Jorge. I opted for their buffet, creating a plate piled high with pasta and fresh vegetables – fuel for the day’s adventures. It’s amazing how a simple meal can taste so good when you know you have a day of exploring ahead. Ebrima was excited to try all the different options, while Fatou stuck to her usual healthy choices, reminding us all to balance indulgence with nourishment. After breakfast, we set off for our first destination: Cachoeira do Segredo.

The drive to the trailhead was scenic, with the landscape transforming into a tapestry of greens and browns. As we drove, I couldn't help but reflect on how different this landscape is from the familiar forests of Bielefeld. The Gambian landscape of my youth also had sprawling savannahs, but nothing quite like this ancient plateau. The air was crisp and clean, carrying the scent of the cerrado, the unique savanna ecosystem of Brazil. Upon arrival, we parked and prepared for the 7 km hike to the waterfall. The entrance fee was R$60, which felt reasonable considering the upkeep of the trails and the preservation of this natural wonder.

The trail to Cachoeira do Segredo, lived up to its reputation as one of the most beautiful hikes in Chapada dos Veadeiros. The path was mostly flat, which was a relief, and about 70% shaded. This made the walk quite pleasant, even in the midday sun. Along the way, we crossed the Segredo and São Miguel rivers multiple times. The water was so clear and inviting that we couldn't resist stopping for a quick dip in some of the natural pools. Ebrima, of course, was the first one in, splashing around like a kid. Even Fatou, who usually prefers to keep her feet dry, couldn't resist the allure of the cool water. It was a refreshing break that revitalized us for the rest of the hike.

As we continued, the trail became increasingly enchanting, with lush vegetation and the constant sound of running water creating a serene atmosphere. We spotted monkeys and other wildlife, adding to the sense of adventure. The anticipation grew with each step, and finally, we arrived at Cachoeira do Segredo. The waterfall was truly breathtaking. The water cascaded down from a height of 100 meters, surrounded by a green stone wall. The sight was majestic, and the sound of the water was both powerful and soothing. We spent a long time there, simply soaking in the beauty of the place. I took numerous photos, trying to capture the essence of this hidden paradise. Of course, photos never truly do justice to the real thing; you have to experience it to fully appreciate it.


Discover the hidden beauty of Cachoeira do Segredo in Chapada dos Veadeiros: a stunning waterfall, refreshing pools, and an unforgettable hiking experience.

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

After our visit to Cachoeira do Segredo, we drove to Mirante do Loquinhas. This viewpoint offers stunning panoramic views of the Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park. The landscape stretched out before us, a sea of green hills and valleys. I tried to capture the vastness of the landscape with my camera, but again, the photos couldn't fully convey the feeling of being there. The sheer scale of the park is humbling, reminding us of the power and beauty of nature. Ebrima was busy taking selfies, while Fatou simply stood in silence, taking in the view. I joined her, and we shared a moment of quiet appreciation for the natural world.


Experience breathtaking panoramic views and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature at Mirante do Loquinhas in Alto Paraíso de Goiás.

Next on our itinerary was Carioquinhas. This area features a series of smaller waterfalls and natural pools, perfect for swimming and relaxing. The trail to Carioquinhas was easy, making it accessible for everyone. The waterfalls themselves were charming, with crystal-clear water cascading over the rocks. We spent a couple of hours swimming in the pools, enjoying the refreshing water and the warm sunshine. It was a fun and relaxing way to end the afternoon. Ebrima was in his element, jumping from rock to rock and exploring every nook and cranny. Fatou and I preferred to lounge in the shallower pools, enjoying the gentle massage of the water.


Discover Carioquinhas, a serene park in Goiás, offering outdoor adventures and peaceful relaxation amidst stunning landscapes and natural beauty.

As the sun began to set, we drove back to Alto Paraíso de Goiás, where we had dinner reservations at La Parrilla. This restaurant is known for its Argentine and Uruguayan cuisine, and we were eager to try it. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere, with the aroma of grilled meat filling the air. I ordered the mixed grill, which included a variety of meats, all cooked to perfection. The flavors were rich and savory, and the portions were generous. Fatou opted for a salad, while Ebrima, predictably, chose the largest steak on the menu. We all agreed that the food was excellent, and the service was friendly and attentive.


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

After dinner, we decided to try a local delicacy at Dendê na Chapada (Acarajé). This street food vendor specializes in acarajé, a traditional Bahian dish made from deep-fried black-eyed pea dough, stuffed with vatapá (a creamy paste made from bread, shrimp, coconut milk, and other ingredients), caruru (okra stew), and shrimp. It’s a flavorful and spicy treat that’s popular throughout Brazil. I had heard so much about acarajé, and I was excited to finally try it. The vendor, a friendly woman with a warm smile, prepared the acarajé fresh for us. The aroma alone was intoxicating. When I took my first bite, I was immediately transported to Bahia. The flavors were complex and intense, a mix of savory, spicy, and slightly sweet. The texture was also unique, with the crispy outer shell giving way to the soft and creamy filling. Fatou and Ebrima were equally impressed, and we devoured our acarajés with gusto.


Experience the authentic taste of Acarajé and vibrant local culture at Dendê na Chapada in Alto Paraíso de Goiás.

As we walked back to our car, I reflected on the day’s adventures. We had explored hidden waterfalls, swam in natural pools, savored Argentine and Uruguayan cuisine, and tasted the flavors of Bahia. It was a day that showcased the diversity and beauty of Brazil. More than that, it was a day spent together as a family, creating memories that we would cherish for years to come. I felt grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my loved ones.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Cachoeira Salto 120, Mirante da Trilha dos Saltos and Cachoeira Água Fria. I am looking forward to another day of exploration and discovery in this incredible national park. Before heading back to our accommodation, we stopped by a small bar for a nightcap. As I sipped my drink, I thought about how lucky I am to be here, experiencing the beauty and wonder of Chapada dos Veadeiros. It’s a journey that has enriched my life in countless ways, and I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings.

The stars are incredibly bright here, far from the light pollution of Bielefeld. As I drift off to sleep, I'm already dreaming of tomorrow's adventures. The sounds of the night—cicadas, distant howls—are a lullaby unique to this part of the world. It’s a comforting reminder that we’re just a small part of something much larger and more magnificent. This trip is not just a vacation; it’s a reconnection with nature and with each other. And for that, I am profoundly grateful.