Family Adventure to Chapada dos Veadeiros

A Day of Cascades and Culinary Delights

Today was all about embracing the raw beauty of Chapada dos Veadeiros. From chasing waterfalls to savoring local flavors, it was a day filled with awe-inspiring sights and delightful experiences. The journey was as rewarding as the destinations themselves, and I'm eager to share every moment of it with you.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at La Parrilla in Alto Paraíso de Goiás. Though known for its Argentinian and Uruguayan cuisine, it was the perfect spot to fuel up for a day of hiking. The aroma of grilled meats filled the air, a comforting prelude to the natural wonders awaiting us. I enjoyed a strong coffee and some pastries, while Fatou opted for a lighter breakfast of fresh fruit. Ebrima, ever the hungry young man, went for a full plate of eggs and toast. Feeling energized, we set off towards our first destination: Cachoeira Almécas I.


Discover the majestic Almécas I waterfall in Alto Paraíso de Goiás: a 45-meter cascade, natural pools, and stunning views await!
The drive to Cachoeira Almécas I was scenic, with the landscape transforming into a tapestry of green and gold. The rainy season typically starts in October, so the vegetation was lush, and the air was fresh. The anticipation grew as we neared the entrance to Fazenda São Bento, where the Almécegas waterfalls are located. The trails were well-maintained, making the hike relatively easy, even for someone like me who spends most of his days behind a desk. As we walked, I couldn't help but reflect on how different this was from my usual routine in Bielefeld. Here, the sounds of nature replaced the hum of machinery, and the scent of wildflowers replaced the smell of oil and metal.

The sight of Cachoeira Almécas I was simply breathtaking. The waterfall cascaded down from a height of about 45 meters, creating a veil of water that sparkled in the sunlight. The pool at the bottom was inviting, and we didn't hesitate to take a refreshing dip. Ebrima, of course, was the first to jump in, followed by Fatou, who loves swimming. I took my time, carefully wading into the cool water. The feeling of the water against my skin was invigorating, washing away any lingering stress from our journey.

Nature's beauty is a reminder to slow down and appreciate the simple wonders around us.

After Almécegas I, we made our way to Almécegas II Waterfall. The trail was a bit steeper, but still manageable. This waterfall, while not as tall as the first, had its own unique charm. The pool was deeper, offering a great opportunity for a swim. Ebrima enjoyed diving into the water, while Fatou and I relaxed on the rocks, soaking in the sun. I couldn't help but feel grateful for this opportunity to spend quality time with my family, away from the distractions of modern life.


Discover the serene beauty of Almécas II Waterfall in Alto Paraíso de Goiás, a natural haven within the UNESCO-listed Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park.
By lunchtime, we were all famished. We drove to São Jorge to Restaurante Buritis, known for its hearty buffet of pasta dishes. The restaurant was bustling with tourists and locals alike, all eager to enjoy a satisfying meal after a morning of exploring. We piled our plates high with pasta, vegetables, and grilled meats, savoring every bite. It was the perfect fuel for the afternoon's adventure.


Experience authentic Brazilian cuisine at Restaurante Buritis in Alto Paraíso de Goiás - a culinary gem celebrating local flavors.
Our next stop was Cachoeira dos Cristais. This waterfall is located about 8 km from Alto Paraíso and is known for its crystal-clear waters and family-friendly atmosphere. The entrance fee was R$40 per person, but it was well worth it for the amenities and natural beauty. The complex features several mini-waterfalls and pools, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the scenery. Ebrima enjoyed exploring the various pools, while Fatou and I found a quiet spot to meditate. The sound of the water was soothing, and I felt a sense of peace wash over me.


Discover the crystal-clear waters and tranquil trails of Cachoeira dos Cristais, a refreshing natural escape in Chapada dos Veadeiros, Brazil.
The facilities at Cachoeira dos Cristais were impressive, with a snack bar, restrooms, and even a playground for children. We enjoyed some snacks and drinks before heading back to Alto Paraíso. Before dinner, we stopped by Capim de Cheiro, a local shop known for its mystical products and souvenirs. I was intrigued by the variety of crystals, incense, and Zen decorations. Fatou bought a few souvenirs for friends back home, while I picked up a small crystal for myself, hoping to bring some of the Chapada's positive energy back to Bielefeld.


Explore Capim de Cheiro, a charming novelty store in Alto Paraíso de Goiás, showcasing aromatic treasures, handcrafted glassware, and local artistry.
For dinner, we decided to try Zu's Bistro culinária italiana, a charming Italian restaurant in Alto Paraíso. The restaurant is known for its creative risottos and homemade pastas. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, and the food was delicious. I ordered a risotto with chicken and pequi, a local fruit, while Fatou opted for a pasta dish with sun-dried tomatoes and arugula. Ebrima, of course, went for a large plate of lasagna. The meal was a perfect ending to a perfect day.


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. We had seen some of the most beautiful waterfalls in Brazil, savored delicious local cuisine, and connected with nature in a way that I hadn't experienced in years. I felt grateful for this opportunity to share this experience with my family. Even though I missed the portable phone charger and first aid kit, we got by without them [].

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Cachoeira do Encontro, Cachoeira dos Anjos e Arcanjos, and Jardim de Maytrea []. I'm also looking forward to stopping by Na Chapada.Kombi Beer, a local bar, for a taste of Brazilian nightlife []. It's experiences like this that make me grateful for the opportunity to travel and share my adventures with you. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!

Alto Paraíso de Goiás is also hosting the Playon Festival, a music, art, and nature event, from October 10-12, 2025. Additionally, the town will host the Remote Immersion luxury tourism event from October 20-25, 2025, further establishing its reputation as a premier travel destination. For those seeking spiritual experiences, the Organic Forest festival will take place on July 18-19, 2025, and the FestivALTO Paraíso, celebrating the element of earth, will be held from October 31 to November 3, 2024. These events highlight the diverse attractions and vibrant culture of the Chapada dos Veadeiros region.

Before I close out this entry, I want to say that the sunset here is stunning. I highly recommend taking the time to appreciate it. The way the light bathes the landscape is nothing short of magical. It is worth remembering that it is during this dry period that the sunset is most beautiful.