Family Adventure to Chapada dos Veadeiros

First Impressions of Goiás

After a long journey from Bielefeld, with a connecting flight in Brasília, my family and I have finally arrived in the heart of Brazil: Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park. The drive from the airport was mesmerizing, a prelude to the natural beauty we were about to immerse ourselves in. As a mechanical engineer, I appreciate the precision of design, but nothing man-made can compare to the artistry of nature. I'm eager to share our experiences, blending practical travel tips with personal reflections, hoping to inspire fellow travel enthusiasts to explore this unique destination.

Our first day began with a hearty Brazilian breakfast at Restaurante Buritis in Alto Paraíso de Goiás. The flavors were a delightful introduction to the local cuisine, setting the tone for a day of exploration. After breakfast, we started our journey to the park entrance. The park is open daily, and it’s advisable to arrive early, as access on foot is permitted from 8 am to 12 pm. The park, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2001, protects an area of approximately 240,611 hectares within the Cerrado biome. The landscape here is truly unique, a blend of ancient rock formations, diverse vegetation, and crystal-clear waters. The October weather is hot, with average temperatures ranging from 70°F (21°C) to 92°F (34°C), so we made sure to bring sunscreen and plenty of water.


Discover breathtaking waterfalls, ancient canyons, and unique Cerrado landscapes at the entrance to Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park near São Jorge, Brazil.

The earth has music for those who listen.

Our first stop was Vale da Lua, or Moon Valley, and it was as otherworldly as the name suggests. Located just 9 km from Vila São Jorge and 35 km from Alto Paraíso de Goiás, the valley is easily accessible via the GO-239 highway. The last 3.5 km are on a dirt road, but it’s well worth the drive. The landscape is sculpted by the Rio São Miguel, with rocks that have been shaped over millennia into smooth, lunar-like formations. Ebrima was fascinated by the rock formations, and Fatou couldn't stop taking pictures. I found myself marveling at the sheer power of water and time, shaping the landscape into something so surreal. I've seen lunar landscapes in pictures, but experiencing it firsthand was something else. The trail to the main pools is only 1200 meters, making it accessible for families. The water was indeed cold, as many have noted, but incredibly refreshing after the short hike.


Explore Brazil's Vale da Lua: Hike through otherworldly rock formations, swim in natural pools, and discover a lunar-like landscape.

After spending a good part of the morning exploring Vale da Lua, we had lunch at Zu's Bistro culinária italiana. It might seem odd to have Italian food in Brazil, but the bistro came highly recommended, and we were all in the mood for a change of pace. The food was excellent, a little taste of Europe in the Brazilian Cerrado. After lunch, we decided to visit Mirante da Estrela, a viewpoint known for its stunning sunset views.


Experience breathtaking panoramic views and serene sunsets at Mirante da Estrela in Alto Paraíso de Goiás.

The Mirante da Estrela is perched on Morro do Areião, near Vila São Jorge. It's easily accessible via marked trails, and there are no entrance fees. The trail is a bit challenging, with slopes and streams, but the view from the top is worth every step. As we ascended, the landscape opened up, revealing panoramic vistas of the Chapada dos Veadeiros. The undulating hills and verdant expanses were a sight to behold. We arrived with plenty of time to spare before sunset, allowing us to soak in the tranquility of the place. The sun began its descent, painting the sky with hues of orange, pink, and purple. It was a magical moment, one that we shared as a family, appreciating the beauty of nature.

After the sunset, we made our way to Na Varanda Sunset for a relaxing evening. Located at Fazenda Conceicao, this bar is known for its cool events and live music. The atmosphere was lively, with a mix of locals and tourists, all enjoying the good vibes and spectacular views. I ordered a local beer, while Fatou enjoyed a caipirinha. Ebrima, of course, stuck to juice. We listened to the music, watched the stars, and reflected on our first day in Chapada dos Veadeiros.


Discover the breathtaking sunsets and vibrant atmosphere at Na Varanda, the ultimate bar experience in Alto Paraíso de Goiás.

For dinner, we chose La Parrilla, enticed by the promise of authentic Uruguayan dining. The restaurant didn't disappoint. The food was hearty and flavorful, a perfect end to a day of exploration. As we ate, we discussed our plans for tomorrow. We're planning to visit Cachoeira Almécas I and Almécegas II, as well as Cachoeira Dos Cristais. I've heard that these waterfalls are some of the most beautiful in the park, and I'm eager to see them for myself. Fatou is particularly excited about visiting Capim de Cheiro, a local shop, tomorrow. She’s looking forward to finding some unique souvenirs to bring back home.

As I sit here, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel grateful for this opportunity to explore Chapada dos Veadeiros with my family. It's a place of immense natural beauty, a place that inspires awe and wonder. I'm looking forward to sharing more of our adventures in the days to come. The park is open daily, and departure must occur by 6 pm for all visitors, except overnight visitors. Access on foot is from 8 am to 12 pm, and access by internal transport is from 9 am to 3 pm. The park can be visited all year round, with the dry season running from May to October and the rainy season from November to April. Before planning your trip, it’s advisable to check the attractions you are interested in, their availability, and the best times to visit. Tickets cost R$45,00.

Chapada dos Veadeiros is more than just a destination; it's an experience. It's a place to connect with nature, to disconnect from the stresses of modern life, and to create lasting memories with loved ones. I encourage anyone who is considering a trip to Brazil to add this national park to their list. You won't be disappointed.