Family Adventure to Chapada dos Veadeiros

Day 4: Discovering Hidden Gems of Chapada dos Veadeiros

Today was a day of embracing the raw, untamed beauty of Chapada dos Veadeiros. After several years working as a mechanical engineer in Germany, I've come to appreciate the simple, yet profound, experiences that nature offers. The hustle of Bielefeld feels a world away as I reflect on today's adventures with my family.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Zu's Bistro culinária italiana. While the name suggests Italian cuisine, I was intrigued by the fusion of flavors, and it proved to be a delightful start to our day. The combination of familiar Italian dishes with local Brazilian ingredients was quite the experience.

Fueled and ready, we set off to explore the Couros waterfalls. The drive itself was an adventure, with the landscape transforming into a canvas of vibrant greens and earthy reds. The anticipation grew with each kilometer, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of childlike excitement bubbling within me. It reminded me of my younger days in Kuntaur, The Gambia, exploring the local streams and forests with my friends. I was pleased the road was excellent and didn't require a 4x4 vehicle.

Reaching the Couros waterfalls was like stepping into another world. The sheer magnitude of the cascades was breathtaking. The trails, about 6 km in total, offered easy access to the first waterfalls. The views were simply stunning. I took numerous pictures, trying to capture the essence of the moment, but no photograph could truly do justice to the experience. The power and the sound of the water crashing down was invigorating. I could feel the cool mist on my face as I stood in awe of nature's grandeur. Fatou and Ebrima were equally captivated, and we spent a good hour simply soaking in the scenery.


Discover the breathtaking Couros Waterfalls in Alto Paraíso de Goiás, a natural paradise for hiking, swimming, and unforgettable scenery.

Nature's beauty has a way of reminding us of the simple joys in life, a sentiment that resonates deeply within me as I navigate the wonders of Chapada dos Veadeiros.

After exploring the Couros waterfalls, we drove to Cachoeira das Loquinhas. The contrast between the two locations was striking. Where Couros was all about raw power and vastness, Loquinhas exuded tranquility and intimacy. The trail to Loquinhas was a gentle 2km walk along wooden decks, making it accessible for all ages. The water in the seven waterfalls was crystal clear, with a greenish hue, inviting us for a refreshing dip. Ebrima was particularly thrilled, and he wasted no time diving into the cool waters. Fatou and I followed suit, and we spent a blissful hour swimming and exploring the various pools. The sun filtered through the lush canopy, creating a magical ambiance that enveloped us in a sense of peace. The decks made it easy for families.


Discover emerald pools and gentle waterfalls on easy trails at Cachoeira das Loquinhas, a perfect family escape in Alto Paraíso de Goiás.
We also made a stop at Mirante do Loquinhas, which offered a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. From there, we could see the vast expanse of the park, with its rolling hills and verdant forests. It was a humbling experience, reminding me of the sheer scale and beauty of our planet.


Experience breathtaking panoramic views and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature at Mirante do Loquinhas in Alto Paraíso de Goiás.
As the day drew to a close, we drove back to Alto Paraíso de Goiás, our hearts full of gratitude for the experiences we had shared. We stopped by Loja Cheiro de Mato Chapada dos Veadeiros, a local souvenir shop. I was impressed by the unique and authentic crafts on display, each piece telling a story of the region's culture and heritage. I picked up a few small items as mementos of our trip, including a beautiful hand-painted scarf for Fatou and a wooden carving of a toucan for Ebrima.


Explore Loja Cheiro de Mato in Chapada dos Veadeiros for unique souvenirs, beach clothing, and sportswear that capture the vibrant Brazilian spirit.
For lunch we enjoyed the delights of La Parrilla. The vibrant atmosphere and delicious food made for a perfect midday break. The flavors were bold and authentic, reminding me of the diverse culinary experiences I've had in my travels around the world.


Discover La Parrilla in Alto Paraíso de Goiás for an authentic Uruguayan dining experience filled with flavor and warmth.
Dinner was at Restaurante Buritis, a local favorite known for its traditional Brazilian cuisine. The food was simple, yet incredibly flavorful, and the portions were generous. The owner was warm and welcoming, making us feel right at home. I particularly enjoyed the *feijão tropeiro*, a hearty dish of beans, sausage, and collard greens, which was the perfect way to end a day of exploration and adventure.


Experience authentic Brazilian cuisine at Restaurante Buritis in Alto Paraíso de Goiás - a culinary gem celebrating local flavors.
As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel a sense of contentment. Today was a reminder of the importance of connecting with nature and cherishing the simple things in life. It's experiences like these that make travel so rewarding, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to share them with my family. I'm also grateful that we didn't forget the sunscreen today! Tomorrow, we plan to explore Cachoeira Raizama, Trilha Morro da Baleia, and Abyss Waterfall. I'm particularly excited about the Gastrobar Area 51, which promises to be a unique experience [Day 5 Itinerary]. I am looking forward to sharing that with you all as well.

This trip to Chapada dos Veadeiros is turning out to be everything I had hoped for and more. It's a chance to escape the ordinary, embrace the unknown, and create memories that will last a lifetime. And as a mechanical engineer, I appreciate the natural engineering of the waterfalls and rock formations we saw today.

Until next time, safe travels and happy exploring!