Family Adventure to Chapada dos Veadeiros

A Day of Cascades and Culinary Curiosities

Today was all about immersing ourselves in the natural beauty of Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park and discovering some of the local flavors this region has to offer. It's amazing how each day here brings a new set of breathtaking views and delightful experiences. I'm eager to share the highlights of our Friday adventure with you all.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at La Parrilla. While I usually enjoy traditional Gambian dishes, I decided to try something new and opted for a local breakfast. It was a delicious start to a day filled with exploration. Fatou enjoyed a simple coffee, while Ebrima, ever the adventurous one, went for a local juice blend he couldn't quite name but thoroughly enjoyed.

Fueled up, we set off to explore the waterfalls. Our first stop was the majestic Waterfall Bridal Veil. The drive itself was scenic, with the landscape transforming into a tapestry of greens and reds as we approached the park. The October weather was quite warm, with temperatures ranging from 21°C to 34°C , making the promise of cool waters even more enticing. The falls are located near Alto Paraíso de Goiás.


Experience the majestic Waterfall Bridal Veil in Alto Paraíso de Goiás, a natural wonder offering breathtaking views and serene escapism.
Upon arrival, we took the short hike to the viewpoint. The cascading water shimmered in the sunlight, creating a mesmerizing display. The 120-meter drop was truly captivating, and the surrounding flora and fauna added to the serene atmosphere. I tried to capture the scene with my camera, hoping to do justice to the natural wonder before us, but some things are simply too grand for a lens to fully capture.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are those where nature reminds us of its unparalleled artistry.

Next on our list were the Cachoeiras do Caracol. This was a bit more off the beaten path, requiring a local guide to access. The trail was roughly 1.8km. The complex is composed of a series of rock formations that form natural pools along the river, perfect for swimming and relaxation. The hike itself was an opportunity to observe local birds and plant life, adding to the sense of tranquility. The Caracol Waterfall has a unique geological formation with a rounded shape and a waterfall between the stones.


Discover the serene beauty of Cachoeiras do Caracol in Alto Paraíso de Goiás, a perfect escape into Brazil's natural wonders.
The final waterfall of the day was Cachoeira do Lajeado. Located about 5km from São Jorge , the access was quite easy, making it a family-friendly option. The trail from the parking area to the attractions was just 600 meters. The falls have three points for bathing. Ebrima was particularly thrilled, and even Fatou, who usually prefers to observe from the sidelines, dipped her toes in the refreshing water. The water was crystal clear and teeming with small fish.


Discover Cachoeira do Lajeado in Alto Paraíso de Goiás: Swim in crystal-clear waters and explore scenic trails in a Brazilian paradise.
After a day of chasing waterfalls, our stomachs were rumbling. We headed to Restaurante Buritis for lunch. This restaurant serves a hearty buffet of pasta dishes where you can select your ingredients. It was the perfect way to refuel after a morning of hiking and swimming. I was impressed by the variety of options and the freshness of the ingredients.


Experience authentic Brazilian cuisine at Restaurante Buritis in Alto Paraíso de Goiás - a culinary gem celebrating local flavors.
With our energy restored, we decided to explore the local shops. Our destination was Natural do Paraíso Empório Gourmet. This emporium is known for its selection of organic products, gourmet groceries, and health foods. We wandered through the aisles, discovering local ingredients, fresh produce, and artisanal products. I picked up a few unique souvenirs to take back home to Bielefeld, while Fatou found some interesting spices to experiment with in her cooking.


Explore the best of organic and gourmet foods at Natural do Paraíso Empório Gourmet, where health meets flavor in Alto Paraíso de Goiás.
For dinner, we chose Zu's Bistro culinária italiana. The restaurant may look simple, but the dishes are wonderful. The owner personally prepares risottos and pastas. I opted for one of the creative risottos—chicken with pequi—while Fatou enjoyed a vegetarian pasta dish. Ebrima, of course, went for a classic spaghetti carbonara. The atmosphere was cozy, and the food was delightful. It was a perfect end to a day of exploration and adventure.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Zu's Bistro in Alto Paraíso de Goiás - where every meal feels like a trip to Italy.
As we drove back to our accommodation, I reflected on the day's adventures. The beauty of Chapada dos Veadeiros is truly captivating, and the local cuisine adds another layer of richness to the experience. October is a good time to visit Chapada dos Veadeiros, as the rains are starting to return, bringing the landscape back to life after the dry season.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Cachoeira do Macacão, Mirante do Feliz, and Praia lúdica vista do dedo [if it exists] [if it exists] [if it exists]. We also plan to check out Jacarandá bar e Petiscaria in the evening [if it exists]. I'm already looking forward to another day of exploration and discovery in this beautiful part of Brazil. I must remember to charge my portable phone charger tonight, a mistake I made a few days ago!

Chapada dos Veadeiros continues to surprise and delight us with its natural wonders and culinary treasures. It's a place where every day brings a new adventure, and I'm grateful to be sharing this experience with my family.