Family Adventure to Chapada dos Veadeiros

Journey's End in Emerald Hues

As our family adventure in Chapada dos Veadeiros draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences we've shared. Today was a day of hidden gems and culinary delights, a perfect culmination of our time in this breathtaking national park. It's hard to believe our 13-day journey is nearing its end, but the memories we've made will undoubtedly last a lifetime.

Our final day began, as most days here have, with a hearty breakfast at Restaurante Buritis in São Jorge. The buffet of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients was the perfect fuel for our morning adventures. I opted for a generous portion of the *bolo de mandioca* (cassava cake) and some strong Brazilian coffee, while Fatou enjoyed a selection of fresh fruits and *pão de queijo* (cheese bread). Ebrima, ever the adventurous one, tried a bit of everything!


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

With our bellies full and spirits high, we set off to explore the Poço das Esmeraldas. The drive there was stunning, with the vast expanse of the Cerrado stretching out before us. The landscape here is truly unique; the combination of the red earth, the twisted trees, and the endless sky creates a sense of being in another world.

The trail to Poço das Esmeraldas was an adventure in itself. The path wound through the forest, with the sounds of birds and insects filling the air. I always appreciate these moments of immersion in nature, a chance to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with the natural world. We took our time, stopping to admire the vibrant flora and fauna along the way. Ebrima, with his keen eye for photography, captured some stunning shots of the local wildlife.

Finally, we arrived at the Poço das Esmeraldas, and I must say, the name does not disappoint. The water was a mesmerizing shade of emerald green, crystal clear and inviting. The pool is surrounded by rocky formations and lush vegetation, creating a truly magical setting. It was easy to see why this place is considered one of the hidden gems of Chapada dos Veadeiros. The water was refreshingly cool, a welcome respite from the warm October sun. We spent a couple of hours swimming and relaxing in the tranquil waters, soaking in the beauty of our surroundings. It felt like a world away from the bustling streets of Bielefeld.


Discover the enchanting emerald waters and serene landscapes of Poço das Esmeraldas in Alto Paraíso de Goiás, Brazil.

After our refreshing dip in the emerald waters, we continued our exploration, heading to Recanto do Caldeirão. This spot offered a different kind of beauty, with a series of small waterfalls and natural pools perfect for wading and splashing. The Recanto do Caldeirão was less crowded than some of the other attractions we've visited, which allowed us to enjoy a more intimate experience with nature. Fatou and I sat on a rock, dangling our feet in the cool water, while Ebrima explored the surrounding area, always on the lookout for the perfect photo opportunity.


Discover the serene beauty of Recanto do Caldeirão in Alto Paraíso de Goiás. A perfect escape into nature's tranquility and Goiás's rural charm.

Our final stop of the day was Cachoeira da Muralha. The name translates to Wall Waterfall, and it's easy to see why. The water cascades down a massive rock wall, creating a stunning visual spectacle. The sheer scale of the waterfall is impressive, and the sound of the water crashing against the rocks is both powerful and soothing. We hiked to a viewpoint to take in the panoramic vista, marveling at the beauty and grandeur of the Chapada dos Veadeiros landscape.


Discover Cachoeira da Muralha in Alto Paraíso de Goiás: a majestic waterfall with stunning rock formations and serene natural beauty.

The beauty of Chapada dos Veadeiros lies not just in its stunning landscapes, but in the sense of peace and connection it fosters within you.

As the sun began to dip below the horizon, we made our way back to Alto Paraíso, our hearts full of the day's adventures. It was time for our farewell dinner, and we decided to treat ourselves to some Italian cuisine at Zu's Bistro. The restaurant was small and charming, with a cozy atmosphere that made us feel right at home. The owner, Zu, greeted us with a warm smile and helped us navigate the menu. I opted for the *risotto de frango com pequi*, a local twist on a classic Italian dish. Fatou chose the *massa com cogumelos*, while Ebrima, craving something familiar, ordered a simple *spaghetti al pomodoro*. The food was delicious, each dish bursting with flavor and cooked with love. It was the perfect way to celebrate our final evening in Chapada dos Veadeiros.


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

After dinner, we strolled through the streets of Alto Paraíso, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. The town was buzzing with activity, locals and tourists alike enjoying the cool evening air. We stopped at BarZen Chapada for a final *caipirinha* , savoring the sweet and tangy flavors as we reminisced about our adventures. The bar had a lively atmosphere, with live music and friendly faces all around. It was a fitting end to a memorable day.


Experience the vibrant flavors and inviting atmosphere at BarZen Chapada, a premier restaurant and cocktail bar in Alto Paraíso de Goiás.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the experiences we've had in Chapada dos Veadeiros. This trip has been more than just a vacation; it's been a journey of discovery, a chance to connect with nature, and an opportunity to create lasting memories with my family. I am glad Fatou and Ebrima were able to share this experience with me. It has been truly special.

Looking back on our 13 days here, I'm struck by the diversity and beauty of this national park. From the towering waterfalls to the hidden emerald pools, from the vibrant flora and fauna to the warm and welcoming people, Chapada dos Veadeiros has captured my heart. I know that this is a place I will never forget, and I hope to return someday to explore even more of its wonders.

Tomorrow, we begin our journey back to Bielefeld, filled with stories and memories that will last a lifetime. While I am looking forward to returning home, I will carry a piece of Chapada dos Veadeiros with me always. The peace, the beauty and the connection with my family will not be forgotten. I will need to remember to take a portable phone charger and a first aid kit on my next trip!

I hope that my blog posts have inspired you to consider a visit to Chapada dos Veadeiros. It's a truly special place, a destination that will leave you feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and connected to the natural world. And who knows, maybe I'll see you there someday, exploring the emerald pools and savoring the flavors of Brazil.

Before heading back to our temporary home, we made one last stop at La Parrilla for a late dinner. Though known for its Argentinian and Uruguayan cuisine, I was in the mood for something comforting and familiar. I opted for a simple grilled steak with a side of *arroz e feijão* (rice and beans), while Fatou chose the *salmão la parrilla*. Ebrima, still craving Italian, ordered a pasta dish. The food was delicious as always, and we enjoyed a final toast to our Chapada dos Veadeiros adventure.


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

As our trip comes to an end, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences we've shared and the memories we've created. Chapada dos Veadeiros has a special place in my heart, and I know we'll cherish these moments for years to come.