Family Adventure to Chapada dos Veadeiros

A Day of Discoveries in Chapada dos Veadeiros

Today was nothing short of magical. Chapada dos Veadeiros continues to surprise and inspire me with its raw beauty and spiritual energy. From chasing waterfalls to finding serenity in a mystical garden, it was a day filled with unforgettable moments with my family.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Restaurante Buritis in São Jorge. This place is quite the gem! They serve a buffet of pasta dishes where you get to choose your ingredients, and they prepare it right in front of you. It's the perfect way to fuel up before a day of hiking and exploration. After a morning of anticipation, we were finally ready to explore the natural wonders of this Brazilian paradise.


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

Our first stop was Cachoeira do Encontro, a place where two rivers meet in a spectacular display of nature's artistry. The water was cool and refreshing, providing a much-needed respite from the October heat. The kids were thrilled, splashing around and marveling at the cascading water. Fatou and I took a moment to simply soak in the surroundings, the sounds of the water creating a soothing symphony. It's moments like these that remind us why we embarked on this adventure in the first place – to reconnect with nature and each other. Ebrima, as always, had his camera out, trying to capture the perfect shot of the falls. He's really developing a keen eye for photography, and I'm so proud of him.


Discover the serene beauty of Cachoeira do Encontro in Alto Paraíso de Goiás, where pristine waters converge in a stunning natural landscape.

Next on our list was Cachoeira dos Anjos e Arcanjos. This pair of waterfalls is nestled within the Povoado do Moinho, not too far from Alto Paraíso. The trail leading to the waterfalls was an adventure in itself, winding through diverse landscapes that kept us engaged every step of the way. The hike was moderately challenging , but the reward was well worth the effort. The kids were troopers, navigating the terrain with surprising agility. The falls are not as crowded as some of the others in the park , giving us a sense of peaceful seclusion. The waters were crisp, and the natural pools at the base of the falls were perfect for a refreshing swim. I felt invigorated, as if the waters washed away all the stress and worries I had carried with me from Bielefeld.


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

Nature's beauty is a reminder that the most profound experiences often lie in the simplest of moments.

After our refreshing swim, we drove towards Jardim de Maytrea, a place I had read so much about. As we approached, the landscape transformed into a vast, open field framed by the Morro da Baleia and Morro do Buracão. The late afternoon sun cast a golden glow over the savannah, creating a scene of surreal beauty. The Jardim is known as a spot of high energy, and many believe it is a portal for another dimension. While I'm not sure about other dimensions, I can certainly attest to the sense of peace and tranquility that washes over you as you stand there. The kids were surprisingly quiet, perhaps sensing the special energy of the place. Fatou and I held hands, watching the sun dip below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange, pink, and purple. It was a moment of pure bliss, a memory I will cherish forever. According to local mystics, the Jardim de Maytrea serves as a gateway to another realm. I'm not sure if I buy that completely, but the quiet and beautiful landscape certainly brings a sense of peace.


Discover Jardim de Maytrea in Alto Paraíso de Goiás: a scenic meadow with mystical charm, stunning sunsets, and vibrant flora.

For lunch, we stopped by Zu's Bistro culinária italiana, a delightful surprise in the heart of Goiás. The restaurant is simple, with tables on a small veranda, but the food is simply marvelous. The owner personally prepares risottos and pastas, with creative and delicious options like chicken with pequi, Turkish fig with Brazil nuts, and sun-dried tomatoes with arugula. I opted for the chicken with pequi risotto, wanting to try a regional flavor. The creamy risotto with the unique taste of pequi was a culinary revelation. Fatou chose a classic spaghetti carbonara, while the kids devoured their margherita pizzas. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, making us feel right at home. We washed it all down with some local beer, adding to the authentic Brazilian experience.


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

As evening approached, we decided to treat ourselves to a taste of Argentina at La Parrilla. This restaurant is known for its authentic Argentine and Uruguayan cuisine, and it did not disappoint. The grilled meats were cooked to perfection, tender and juicy, and the chimichurri sauce added a burst of flavor. We shared a platter of different cuts, savoring each bite. Ebrima, who usually prefers fast food, was surprisingly impressed with the quality of the meat. The service was excellent, and the ambiance was warm and inviting. It was the perfect way to end a day of adventure.


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

Before heading back to our campsite, we made a pit stop at Na Chapada.Kombi Beer. This place is a local favorite, known for its craft beers and lively atmosphere. The bar is actually set in a converted Kombi van, adding to its quirky charm. We sampled a few of their brews, each one unique and flavorful. The kids enjoyed some refreshing Guarana, a popular Brazilian soda. The atmosphere was buzzing with locals and tourists alike, all enjoying the music and good vibes. It was a fun and relaxing way to cap off the evening.


Discover an unforgettable blend of craft beers and local culture at Na Chapada.Kombi Beer in Alto Paraíso de Goiás, a true gem for food and drink enthusiasts.

As we drove back, I reflected on the day's adventures. Chapada dos Veadeiros had once again exceeded our expectations, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and spiritual connection. I am so grateful for the opportunity to share these moments with my family, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Tomorrow, we are planning to visit the Couros waterfalls and Cachoeira das Loquinhas. I've heard that Couros waterfalls are stunning, with several falls cascading down the rocks. I am also looking forward to seeing Cachoeira das Loquinhas, which is supposed to be a series of smaller waterfalls and natural pools, perfect for swimming. I am excited to see what new adventures tomorrow will bring. Perhaps we'll even find a souvenir at Loja Cheiro de Mato Chapada dos Veadeiros !

Back at our campsite, under a blanket of stars, I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for this incredible journey. We had started our trip forgetting a few essentials, like a portable phone charger and a first aid kit, but honestly, those things seemed insignificant compared to the richness of the experiences we were having. As I drifted off to sleep, I dreamed of more waterfalls, mystical gardens, and unforgettable moments with my loved ones. This is what life is all about.

Chapada dos Veadeiros, you have stolen a piece of my heart.