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

A Day of Nature's Embrace

Today was all about immersing ourselves in the raw, untamed beauty of Chapada dos Veadeiros. After days of hiking and exploring, I felt a deep connection to this place, a sense of belonging that only nature can inspire. The plan for today was to visit Cachoeira Salto 120 and Carioquinhas, two spots known for their unique charm. We also had some culinary stops planned, aiming to savor the local flavors. I was particularly excited to see what hidden gems we might stumble upon along the way.

The day began with a hearty breakfast at Restaurante Buritis. I opted for a traditional Brazilian breakfast, fueling up with fresh fruits, strong coffee, and some local pastries. It was the perfect way to start a day of adventure. Lena always teases me about my need for a big breakfast, but I always tell her that I need the energy for all the hiking we do.

Our first destination was Cachoeira Salto 120. The drive there was scenic, with the landscape unfolding before us in all its glory. The red earth, the vast skies, and the unique vegetation of the Cerrado made the journey itself a treat. I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to witness such natural beauty. The park opens at 8 am, and getting there early is a good idea to avoid crowds.

The trail to Cachoeira Salto 120 was moderately challenging. It involved some rocky paths and a few steep inclines, but nothing too strenuous. As we hiked, I couldn't help but reflect on how much I've come to enjoy these physical challenges. It's not just about the destination, but the journey itself, the feeling of pushing my limits and connecting with nature on a deeper level. I even managed to use some of my Hawaiian when talking to some of the other hikers, teaching them to say Aloha.

Finally, we arrived at the viewpoint for Cachoeira Salto 120. The sight was simply breathtaking. The waterfall cascaded down from a height of 120 meters, creating a misty veil that shimmered in the sunlight. The surrounding valley was lush and green, a testament to the life-giving power of water. I stood there for a long time, just soaking it all in. It was a moment of pure serenity, a reminder of the beauty and power of nature.


Discover the majestic Cachoeira Salto 120 in Alto Paraíso de Goiás, a perfect blend of adventure and natural beauty.

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

After spending some time at Cachoeira Salto 120, we made our way to Carioquinhas. This spot was quite different, offering a more intimate and tranquil experience. Carioquinhas is a series of smaller waterfalls and natural pools, perfect for a refreshing dip. The water was crystal clear and cool, providing a welcome respite from the afternoon heat.


Discover Carioquinhas, a serene park in Goiás, offering outdoor adventures and peaceful relaxation amidst stunning landscapes and natural beauty.

I took a swim in one of the pools, feeling the water wash away any lingering stress or tension. It was incredibly rejuvenating, a chance to reconnect with my body and mind. I floated on my back, gazing up at the sky, feeling utterly at peace. I thought about Lena and Kai back in Berlin, and how much I wished they could be here to share this experience with me. I made a mental note to plan a family trip back to Chapada dos Veadeiros sometime soon.

After our swim, we spent some time exploring the area around Carioquinhas. We discovered hidden nooks and crannies, each with its own unique charm. We saw colorful birds flitting through the trees, and tiny fish darting in the shallows. It was a reminder of the incredible biodiversity of this region, and the importance of preserving it for future generations.

By lunchtime, we were all feeling quite hungry. We decided to head to La Parrilla for a taste of Argentinian and Uruguayan cuisine. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with a rustic charm that made us feel right at home. I ordered a parrillada platter, a selection of grilled meats that was simply divine. The meat was tender and flavorful, cooked to perfection over an open flame. We also tried some homemade chimichurri sauce, which added a zesty kick to the meal.


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

In the late afternoon, we decided to do some shopping at Chapada Chill Store. I was hoping to find some unique souvenirs to bring back to Berlin. The store had a wide selection of local crafts, including jewelry, clothing, and artwork. I ended up buying a beautiful piece of quartz crystal, which I felt would bring some of the positive energy of Chapada dos Veadeiros back home with me. Lena would have loved this store, she always appreciates local art.


Discover the flavors of health and wellness at Chapada Chill Store - your go-to destination for organic delights in São Jorge.

For dinner, we chose Zu's Bistro culinária italiana, enticed by the promise of homemade pasta and creative risottos. The bistro was simple but charming, with a small veranda where we could sit and enjoy the evening breeze. I ordered a risotto with local pequi fruit, which was a unique and delicious combination. The flavors were rich and complex, a testament to the chef's skill and creativity. We paired our meal with some good wine, making for a perfect end 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 the day drew to a close, I reflected on all that we had experienced. We had seen breathtaking waterfalls, swum in crystal-clear pools, savored delicious food, and connected with nature on a deeper level. It was a day that I would cherish for a long time to come. I thought about the Aldeia Multiétnica, and how great it was that the local indigenous population was being celebrated. I also thought about how lucky I was to be able to experience all of this with my friends, who really are like my Ohana.

Tomorrow is our last day in Chapada dos Veadeiros, and we plan to make the most of it by visiting Mirante Novo Horizonte and Cachoeira dos Arcanjos. I'm excited to see what these new adventures will bring, and to soak in as much of this beautiful place as possible before we head back to Berlin. I'm also looking forward to a final dinner with my friends at La Parrilla and a drink at BÔROGODÓ LOUNGE.

Even though I'm excited about tomorrow, I am sad that this trip is coming to an end. I've truly found a special place in my heart for Chapada dos Veadeiros. I can't wait to come back and explore more of Brazil's natural beauty! I am going to miss the warm temperatures, as AccuWeather says that Berlin is much cooler.