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

A Day of Thrills and Tranquility

Today was a perfect blend of adrenaline-pumping adventure and serene natural beauty. Chapada dos Veadeiros continues to surprise and delight, offering experiences that touch both the thrill-seeker and the peace-lover in me. I'm eager to share the highlights of our day, from soaring through the sky to relaxing by a majestic waterfall.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at La Parrilla. Lena always jokes that I have to try the local cuisine, and La Parrilla serves Argentinian and Uruguayan dishes. I had a steak and eggs dish that was just what I needed for a day of adventure. We met our friends there, excited for the day ahead.

Taking Flight at Tirolesa Voo do Gavião

The first item on our agenda was the Tirolesa Voo do Gavião, or the Hawk's Flight Zipline. Located a short drive from Alto Paraíso, the zipline promised breathtaking views and an exhilarating experience. As someone who enjoys pushing my limits, I was definitely looking forward to this. Lena, on the other hand, was a bit more hesitant, but the stunning scenery of Chapada dos Veadeiros and the promise of flying like a hawk eventually won her over.

Upon arriving at the Pousada Fazenda São Bento, where the zipline is located, we were greeted by the friendly staff of Travessia Ecoturismo. They provided us with a thorough safety briefing and geared us up with harnesses and helmets. I opted for the traditional seated zipline. Lena chose the same, deciding that the 'Hawk's Flight' position, which involves lying face down, might be a bit too intense for her first zipline experience.

As I stood on the platform, looking out over the vast expanse of the cerrado, I couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement. The views were incredible – the Morro da Baleia, Serra das Cobras, Serra Almécegas, Morro da Conceição, and Serra da Boa Vista all stretched out before me. With a deep breath, I launched myself into the air, soaring above the landscape like a bird.

The sensation of flying was absolutely incredible. The wind rushed past my face as I took in the panoramic views of the Chapada. The 850-meter ride felt both thrilling and peaceful, a perfect combination of adrenaline and serenity. I could see why they named it 'Hawk's Flight' – there were indeed many Carcará hawks soaring in the same area.

Lena, surprisingly, enjoyed the experience even more than I anticipated. She laughed and cheered as she glided through the air, completely forgetting her initial apprehension. That was amazing! she exclaimed as she reached the end of the line. I felt like a kid again! Kai would have loved this!

Sometimes, the greatest adventures are the ones that push us just outside our comfort zone, revealing a new perspective on the world and ourselves.

Discovering the Beauty of Cachoeira da Muralha

After our ziplining adventure, we were ready for something a bit more relaxed. We decided to visit Cachoeira da Muralha, a stunning waterfall known for its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere. The falls are easily accessible, with a short 800-meter trail leading to the main cascade.

The hike to the waterfall was pleasant and easy, winding through the typical cerrado vegetation. The air was fresh and clean, filled with the sounds of birds and the rustling of leaves. It was a welcome change from the hustle and bustle of Berlin, reminding me of the peaceful trails back home in Hawaii.

As we approached the waterfall, the sound of rushing water grew louder, and the sight of the cascading falls came into view. Cachoeira da Muralha is a majestic waterfall, with water tumbling over rocky cliffs into a clear pool below. The surrounding area is lush and green, creating a serene and picturesque setting. The sun shone through the trees, casting dappled shadows on the rocks and water.

We spent a couple of hours at the waterfall, swimming in the cool, refreshing water and soaking in the natural beauty. Lena, ever the artist, took several photos, trying to capture the essence of the place. I simply sat on a rock, listening to the water and feeling the sun on my skin, grateful for this moment of peace and tranquility. This is what sustainable tourism is all about, enjoying nature without disturbing it.

A Culinary Journey Through Alto Paraíso

After our refreshing dip, we were ready for lunch. We headed to Zu's Bistro culinária italiana, a charming Italian restaurant in Alto Paraíso. I've learned that even in the heart of Brazil, you can find incredible international cuisine. Zu's Bistro is known for its homemade pasta and creative risottos.

The bistro itself is cozy and inviting, with a relaxed atmosphere. The owner, Zu, is a warm and welcoming woman who clearly takes pride in her cooking. She personally prepares the risottos and pastas, using fresh, local ingredients whenever possible.

I decided to try the chicken risotto with pequi, a local fruit. The combination of flavors was unique and delicious, a perfect blend of Italian technique and Brazilian ingredients. Lena opted for the sun-dried tomato risotto with arugula, which she declared was equally amazing. We paired our meals with a couple of cold beers, enjoying the laid-back vibe of the place.

For dinner, we decided to try Restaurante Buritis, known for its buffet of pasta dishes. You select your ingredients, and they prepare your dish right in front of you. It was the perfect way to end a day of outdoor activities – a hearty, satisfying meal that fueled us up for the night. I piled my plate high with pasta, vegetables, and grilled chicken, while Lena chose a lighter option with a variety of salads and grilled fish. It reminded me of the 'plate lunch' places back in Hilo.

Evening Relaxation at Gastrobar Hangar 18

To cap off our day, we decided to check out Gastrobar Hangar 18, a popular cocktail bar in Alto Paraíso. I had heard good things about their innovative cocktail menu and relaxed atmosphere. Plus, Lena and I enjoy a good cocktail after a day of activities.

The bar was indeed stylish and inviting, with a laid-back vibe that made us feel right at home. The decor was unique, with aviation-themed elements that added to the atmosphere. We ordered a couple of their signature cocktails, expertly mixed with fresh ingredients. The bartenders were friendly and knowledgeable, happy to recommend drinks based on our preferences.

As we sipped our cocktails, we reflected on the day's adventures. From the thrill of the zipline to the tranquility of the waterfall, and the culinary delights in between, it had been a day to remember. Chapada dos Veadeiros continues to impress me with its diverse offerings and natural beauty.

Tomorrow, we're planning to explore Poço das Esmeraldas and the Couros waterfalls [this park has so many waterfalls!] before indulging in some local shopping at Arte Nossa - a loja da Néga [Arte Nossa - a loja da Néga]. I can't wait to see what other wonders this incredible place has in store for us.

Until then, aloha and goodnight!