Family Adventure to Chapada dos Veadeiros

A Day Immersed in Nature's Splendor

Today was a day of pure, unadulterated natural beauty. Chapada dos Veadeiros continues to surprise and enchant me with its hidden gems, each more breathtaking than the last. From cascading waterfalls to panoramic vistas, it was a day that reminded me why we embarked on this adventure in the first place.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Restaurante Buritis. I had heard great things about their traditional Brazilian breakfast, and it did not disappoint. The owner was incredibly welcoming, and even spoke a bit of German, which was a pleasant surprise. It’s always comforting to find a familiar face, or in this case, a familiar language, when you’re so far from home. Fuelled up and ready for the day, we set off towards our first destination: Cachoeira do Macacão.

The drive to Cachoeira do Macacão was an adventure in itself. The road turned into a dirt track, and I was grateful for the sturdy vehicle we rented. I wouldn’t recommend attempting it in a low-riding car unless you’re prepared for a bumpy ride. As we bumped along, Fatou reminded me of the importance of taking care of our belongings, especially after forgetting the portable phone charger and first aid kit. The landscape, however, was stunning, with the typical cerrado vegetation stretching as far as the eye could see. It reminded me of the African savanna in some ways, vast and untamed. We learned that a local guide is now mandatory to enter Cachoeira do Macacão. This is to ensure the preservation of this pristine environment. Fortunately, we had pre-booked a guide who met us at the entrance. Matheus, our guide, was a wealth of knowledge, pointing out various flora and fauna along the way. I always appreciate learning about the local ecosystem; it adds another layer of depth to the experience.

The hike to the waterfall was moderately challenging. It was about 4.5 kilometers round trip, with some rocky sections that required careful footing. Ebrima, with his youthful energy, bounded ahead, while Fatou and I took a more leisurely pace. There was one particularly steep section towards the end where we had to scramble down, but it was well worth the effort. As we rounded the corner, the Cachoeira do Macacão revealed itself in all its glory. The cascades were visually stunning, and the river was refreshingly inviting. The water was crystal clear, perfect for a revitalizing dip after the hike. We spent a couple of hours swimming and enjoying the tranquility of the place. I took some photos, trying to capture the essence of this natural wonder, but no picture could truly do it justice.


Discover the majestic cascades and serene beauty of Cachoeira do Macacão in Alto Paraíso de Goiás, Brazil.

Nature is not a place to visit. It is home.

After our refreshing swim, we hiked back to the entrance, said goodbye to Matheus, and continued our journey to Mirante do Feliz. The drive was relatively short, and soon we were standing at the viewpoint, taking in the panoramic vista. The view was simply breathtaking. Rolling hills stretched out before us, dotted with the characteristic vegetation of the Chapada. The sky was a brilliant blue, and the air was crisp and clean. It was a moment of pure serenity, a chance to pause and appreciate the beauty of the world around us. I thought about my life back in Bielefeld, the familiar routines and responsibilities, and felt a sense of gratitude for this opportunity to escape and reconnect with nature.


Experience breathtaking panoramic views at Mirante do Feliz in Alto Paraíso de Goiás, a haven for nature lovers and photographers.

Our final stop for the day was Praia lúdica vista do dedo. I must admit, I was intrigued by the name. It translates to something like 'playful beach view from the finger,' which conjured up all sorts of images in my mind. What we found was a unique rock formation that resembled a finger pointing out over a scenic landscape. It was indeed playful, offering a different perspective on the Chapada's beauty. The kids enjoyed climbing on the rocks, while Fatou and I sat and watched, enjoying the late afternoon sun.


Discover Praia Lúdica Vista do Dedo in Alto Paraíso de Goiás: a serene beach with stunning views, perfect for relaxation and nature exploration.

As the sun began to dip below the horizon, we made our way back to Alto Paraíso de Goiás. We were all tired but filled with a sense of contentment. For dinner, we decided to try La Parrilla, an Argentinian restaurant in town. I’ve always enjoyed a good steak, and I was curious to see how Argentinian cuisine would compare to what I’m used to in Germany. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere, and the staff were friendly and attentive. I ordered a steak, of course, and it was cooked to perfection. Fatou opted for a vegetarian dish, and she was equally impressed with the flavors. Ebrima, as always, was happy with a simple pasta dish. It was a satisfying end to a wonderful day.


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

Before heading back to our accommodation, we stopped by Jacarandá bar e Petiscaria for a nightcap. The bar had a relaxed vibe, with live music and a good selection of drinks. I ordered a local beer, while Fatou sipped on a caipirinha. We sat and listened to the music, reflecting on the day’s adventures. It was the perfect way to wind down before heading to bed.


Discover the vibrant flavors and friendly atmosphere of Jacarandá Bar e Petiscaria in Alto Paraíso de Goiás, a must-visit for every traveler.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Cachoeira dos Arcanjos, Cachoeira do Sertão Zen, and Pico Pouso Alto. I’m particularly excited about Pico Pouso Alto, as I’ve heard the views from the summit are incredible. We also plan to visit I.S.A Pedras e Artesanatos to pick up some souvenirs for our friends back home. I'm also thinking of getting Fatou something special, perhaps a piece of jewelry with a unique Brazilian stone. It will be a reminder of this incredible trip we shared together.

As I lie here in bed, listening to the sounds of the Chapada night, I can’t help but feel grateful for this experience. It’s a reminder that there’s so much beauty to be found in the world, if only we take the time to look. And it’s even better when shared with family.

Goodnight from Chapada dos Veadeiros!