Adventure in Chapada dos Veadeiros: Discovering Brazil's Natural Beauty

A Day of Discovery in Chapada dos Veadeiros

Today was nothing short of magical as we continued our exploration of Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park. The park's beauty is truly captivating, and I’m so excited to share the day's adventures with you. The warm weather in August made it perfect for chasing waterfalls and soaking in the panoramic views. I was especially looking forward to seeing the landscapes I had read so much about and, of course, sampling some local flavors.

    Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Restaurante Buritis in São Jorge. It's always a treat to start the day with a good meal, especially knowing we had a full day of hiking ahead. The buffet of pasta was just what I needed to fuel up. It reminded me a bit of the simple, hearty meals we often have back in Berlin, though with a distinct Brazilian twist.

    First up on our itinerary was Cachoeira Raizama. Getting there involved a bit of a drive, about 42 kilometers from Alto Paraíso. The drive itself was quite scenic, offering glimpses of the vast landscapes that define this region. The trail to the waterfall was relatively easy, making it accessible for everyone in our group. As we approached, the sound of the water grew louder, building anticipation for the sight that awaited us. The waterfall itself was a refreshing oasis, with its small cascade creating a perfect spot for a quick dip. The cool water was incredibly welcome in the August heat, a welcome respite from the very warm temperatures.


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

    After Raizama, we set our sights on Trilha Morro da Baleia, or Whale Hill Trail. This was perhaps the most challenging part of our day, but also the most rewarding. The trail is about 3 kilometers long and leads to the top of the hill, which stands at 1,501 meters. The hike involved a steady climb, with some steep sections that definitely got our hearts pumping. However, the panoramic views from the summit were absolutely worth the effort. From up there, we could see the vast expanse of the park, with its undulating hills and verdant valleys. It was a truly breathtaking sight.


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

Sometimes, the most scenic roads in life are the detours you didn't mean to take.

    As I stood there, gazing at the landscape, I couldn't help but reflect on how much this trip meant to me. It's not just about seeing new places; it's about experiencing them with friends, sharing moments of joy and wonder. I thought about Lena and Kai back in Berlin and how much I wished they could be here to share this with me. Maybe one day we can all come back together. It would be amazing to share the beauty of Brazil with them, to show them the vibrant culture and stunning nature that has captured my heart.

    After soaking in the views from Morro da Baleia, we made our way to Almécegas II Waterfall. This waterfall is known for its easy access, which was a welcome change after the somewhat strenuous hike up Morro da Baleia. The entrance fee was 70R$ per person, which might seem a bit steep, but it’s worth it if you plan to explore all three waterfalls in the area. Almécegas II is smaller than Almécegas I, making it a great spot for swimming. The water was cool and refreshing, and we spent a good hour simply relaxing and enjoying the natural beauty around us. It was the perfect way to unwind after a day of hiking.


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.

    For lunch, we stopped at Zu's Bistro, an Italian restaurant in Alto Paraíso. It might seem strange to eat Italian food in Brazil, but Zu's Bistro is known for its homemade cuisine and relaxing atmosphere. I opted for one of their risottos, which was both creative and delicious. It was a nice change of pace from the traditional Brazilian food we had been eating, and it reminded me of the Italian restaurants Lena and I frequent in Berlin.


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

    After lunch, we did a bit of shopping at Loja Cheiro de Mato Chapada dos Veadeiros. This shop offers a variety of souvenirs and locally made products, inspired by the Cerrado Goiano. I picked up a few small gifts for Lena and Kai, as well as a t-shirt for myself. I always like to bring back something that reminds me of the places I've visited, a tangible memory of the experiences I've had.


Explore Loja Cheiro de Mato in Chapada dos Veadeiros for unique souvenirs, beach clothing, and sportswear that capture the vibrant Brazilian spirit.

    As the day drew to a close, we headed to La Parrilla for dinner. This Argentinian and Uruguayan restaurant in Alto Paraíso is known for its grilled meats. I opted for a traditional Argentine asado, which was cooked to perfection. The flavors were rich and smoky, and the meat was incredibly tender. It was a fitting end to a day filled with adventure and discovery.


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

    Looking ahead to tomorrow, we plan to visit Cachoeira dos Anjos e Arcanjos and Cachoeira do Sertão Zen. I'm excited to see what these waterfalls have to offer and to continue exploring the natural beauty of Chapada dos Veadeiros. We're also planning to check out BarZen Chapada in the evening [BarZen Chapada]. It will be a great way to unwind after another day of hiking and sightseeing.

    As I sit here, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience this amazing place with my friends. Chapada dos Veadeiros is a truly special destination, and I'm so glad I had the chance to explore it. From the stunning waterfalls to the breathtaking views, this trip has been an unforgettable adventure. I'm already looking forward to tomorrow and to the new discoveries that await us.

    One thing I did forget to pack was insect repellent, which would have been useful, especially in the evenings. Also, a portable charger would have been handy, as my phone battery ran low a couple of times during the day. But these are minor details, and they didn't detract from the overall experience.

    This trip to Chapada dos Veadeiros has been a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, and I'm so grateful for the opportunity to share it with you all. Stay tuned for more updates from Brazil!