Family Adventure to Chapada dos Veadeiros

A Day of Veadeiros Wonders

Today was a day of embracing the raw beauty of Chapada dos Veadeiros. We set out with a plan to explore a few key spots, but as always, the day unfolded with its own rhythm, filled with unexpected delights and challenges. It’s these unpredictable moments that make traveling so enriching, reminding me of the simple joys of discovery and connection.

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at La Parrilla. It's always a good start to the day with Argentinian and Uruguayan cuisine. I opted for a strong coffee and a light pastry, knowing we had a full day of hiking ahead. Fatou chose a more substantial meal, savoring the flavors of the local cuisine. Fuelled up, we were ready to tackle our first destination: Cachoeira Raizama.

Cachoeira Raizama: A Sanctuary of Nature

The drive to Cachoeira Raizama was scenic, taking us through the heart of the Chapada. As we approached, the landscape transformed into a lush, green sanctuary. The trail to the waterfall was a manageable 2.3 kilometers, rated with medium difficulty, which was perfect for a morning hike with the family. The path wound through the forest, the air thick with the scent of damp earth and tropical flora. The kids were excited, their energy boundless as they skipped ahead, eager to discover what lay around each bend.

Reaching Cachoeira Raizama, we were greeted by a stunning sight. The waterfall cascaded down almost 50 meters into the Rio São Miguel, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. While it wasn't possible to view the waterfall head-on, its beauty was undeniable. The kids were fascinated by the power of the water, and we spent a good hour simply watching the falls and soaking in the serene atmosphere.

I took the opportunity to capture some photographs, trying to capture the essence of this natural wonder. Photography, after all, is one of my favorite ways to preserve memories and share the beauty of the world with others. As we prepared to leave, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to witness such a breathtaking sight. It's moments like these that remind me why I love to travel and explore new places.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Cachoeira Raizama in Alto Paraíso de Goiás, Brazil – a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Trilha Morro da Baleia: A Whale of a View

Next on our itinerary was Trilha Morro da Baleia, or Whale Hill Trail. After a quick stop in São Jorge for lunch at Restaurante Buritis, where we enjoyed a buffet of delicious pasta dishes, we set off towards the trail. The drive itself was an adventure, with winding roads and stunning vistas at every turn.

The trail to Morro da Baleia is known for its panoramic views of the region. The hike is about 4 km long and is considered moderately challenging. As we began our ascent, the kids were full of energy, racing ahead and eager to reach the summit. Fatou and I took a more leisurely pace, enjoying the scenery and the opportunity to connect with nature.

The trail wound its way up the hill, with some steep sections that required a bit of effort. But the views along the way were more than worth it. As we climbed higher, we could see the vast expanse of the Chapada stretching out before us, with its rolling hills, verdant valleys, and distant mountains. The landscape was truly breathtaking, and I felt a sense of awe and wonder at the sheer beauty of it all.

Reaching the summit of Morro da Baleia, we were rewarded with even more stunning views. From the top, we could see the Jardim de Maytrea, a unique wetland area known for its diverse plant life and mystical energy. The kids were thrilled, running around and pointing out the various landmarks in the distance. We spent some time simply soaking in the view, taking photographs, and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.


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

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

As the sun began to set, we started our descent, the sky ablaze with color. The golden light cast a magical glow over the landscape, and I felt a sense of contentment and gratitude for the experiences of the day.

Abyss Waterfall: A Hidden Gem

Our final stop for the day was the Abyss Waterfall. By this time, the sun was beginning to dip below the horizon, casting long shadows across the landscape. We parked the car and began the short hike to the waterfall, the air cool and crisp against our skin.

The Abyss Waterfall is a smaller waterfall, but it's known for its unique setting and serene atmosphere. As we approached, we could hear the gentle sound of water cascading over the rocks. The waterfall itself was nestled in a small canyon, surrounded by lush vegetation. The kids were excited to explore, clambering over the rocks and splashing in the cool water.

I took a moment to simply sit and observe, watching the water flow and listening to the sounds of nature. The Abyss Waterfall was a peaceful oasis, a place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with the natural world. It was the perfect way to end our day of exploration, a reminder of the simple joys of being outdoors and experiencing the beauty of the Chapada.


Discover the breathtaking Abyss Waterfall in Alto Paraíso de Goiás, a natural paradise for adventure and tranquility.

As we drove back to our accommodation, we were all tired but happy. We stopped at Gastrobar Área 51 for a quick refreshment before heading back for the night. The bar had a fun, quirky atmosphere, and the drinks were refreshing after a long day of hiking. The kids enjoyed the novelty of the place, and we all had a good laugh as we recounted the highlights of the day.

Back at our campsite, we gathered around the campfire, sharing stories and roasting marshmallows. The stars twinkled overhead, and the sound of crickets filled the air. It was a perfect ending to a perfect day, a reminder of the simple pleasures of life and the importance of spending time with family.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Cachoeira do Segredo and Mirante Novo Horizonte. I am looking forward to more adventures and discoveries in this beautiful part of Brazil.

Dinner at Zu's Bistro

After a long day of hiking and exploring, we were all eager for a good meal. We decided to try Zu's Bistro culinária italiana, a local restaurant known for its Italian cuisine. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with a warm and friendly atmosphere.

We ordered a variety of dishes, including risotto and pasta, all of which were delicious. The kids especially enjoyed the pasta, devouring their plates with gusto. Fatou and I savored the flavors of the risotto, which was rich and creamy. The service was excellent, and we felt well taken care of throughout the meal.

As we ate, we reflected on the day's adventures, sharing stories and laughing at our mishaps. It was a perfect way to end the day, a reminder of the importance of good food, good company, and good memories.

Leaving the restaurant, we felt content and satisfied. Our bellies were full, our hearts were happy, and our minds were filled with the memories of a day well spent. We walked back to our accommodation under the starlit sky, hand in hand, grateful for the opportunity to experience the beauty and wonder of Chapada dos Veadeiros.

As I settle in for the night, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude for the experiences of the day. Chapada dos Veadeiros has a way of captivating the soul, reminding us of the simple joys of life and the importance of connecting with nature. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings, as we continue our exploration of this magical place.