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

Day 3: Chasing Waterfalls and Finding Magic in the Garden

Aloha, fellow travelers! Today was nothing short of magical as we continued our exploration of Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park. With Lena and the group, I dove headfirst into the natural wonders this region has to offer. From cascading waterfalls to mystical gardens, every moment was filled with awe and inspiration. I was excited to see what the day held, and Chapada dos Veadeiros certainly didn't disappoint!

Our day started with a hearty breakfast at Zu's Bistro culinária italiana in Alto Paraíso de Goiás. Even though Italian cuisine might seem out of place in Brazil, Zu's Bistro is known for its delicious risottos and pastas, prepared with a personal touch. I opted for a flavorful risotto, while Lena enjoyed a classic pasta dish. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of adventure.

Cachoeira dos Cristais: A Crystal-Clear Start

Our first stop was Cachoeira dos Cristais, a series of waterfalls and natural pools located just a short drive from Alto Paraíso. The name translates to Crystal Waterfalls, and it certainly lives up to its name. The trail to the falls was an easy walk, making it accessible for everyone in our group. As we hiked, we were surrounded by the unique vegetation of the Cerrado, the Brazilian savanna.

The waterfalls themselves were stunning, with crystal-clear water cascading over rocks into inviting pools. We spent a good amount of time swimming and relaxing in the refreshing water. There are several different falls and pools to explore, each offering a unique experience. Some of the falls create natural hydromassage, while others are perfect for a leisurely dip. I even managed to capture some great photos of Lena enjoying the water, her laughter echoing through the serene environment.


Discover the crystal-clear waters and tranquil trails of Cachoeira dos Cristais, a refreshing natural escape in Chapada dos Veadeiros, Brazil.

The beauty of nature lies not just in what you see, but in what it makes you feel.

After a refreshing morning at Cachoeira dos Cristais, we were ready for lunch. We headed to Restaurante Buritis, located in the charming Vila de São Jorge. This restaurant is known for its buffet-style meals, where you can customize your plate with various ingredients. It’s a popular spot for hikers and adventurers looking to refuel after a morning of exploring.

Lena and I both opted for the pasta buffet, selecting our favorite ingredients to create a hearty and satisfying meal. The restaurant had a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, and we enjoyed chatting with some of the other travelers who were also fueling up for their adventures.

Jardim de Maytrea: A Mystical Garden

With our bellies full, we continued our journey to Jardim de Maytrea, a unique and mystical garden located between Alto Paraíso and Vila de São Jorge. This place is more than just a garden; it's a landscape that seems to transport you to another world. As we approached, the iconic Morro da Baleia (Whale Hill) came into view, a fitting backdrop for this enchanted location.

Jardim de Maytrea is a vast open field dotted with ancient buriti palm trees and vibrant chuveirinho flowers. The area is known for its spiritual energy, with some believing it to be a portal to another dimension. Whether or not you believe in the mystical properties, there's no denying the beauty and tranquility of this place.

We strolled through the garden, taking in the breathtaking views and snapping photos of the unique flora. The late afternoon sun cast a golden glow over the landscape, creating a magical atmosphere. It was easy to see why this place is considered one of the most iconic spots in Chapada dos Veadeiros.


Discover Jardim de Maytrea in Alto Paraíso de Goiás: a scenic meadow with mystical charm, stunning sunsets, and vibrant flora.

Cachoeira do Encontro: A Meeting of Waters

Our final stop for the day was Cachoeira do Encontro, a hidden gem known for its stunning natural beauty. Reaching this waterfall required a bit more effort, but the reward was well worth it. The trail wound through lush vegetation, and the anticipation grew with each step.

Cachoeira do Encontro, or Encounter Waterfall, is where two rivers meet, creating a powerful and mesmerizing cascade. The water plunges into a deep pool, surrounded by towering cliffs and dense forest. The energy of the place was palpable, and we felt a sense of awe as we took in the view.

We spent some time swimming in the cool, refreshing water, feeling the power of the falls as it crashed down around us. It was the perfect way to end a day filled with adventure and exploration. The sun began to set as we made our way back, painting the sky with vibrant colors.


Discover the serene beauty of Cachoeira do Encontro in Alto Paraíso de Goiás, where pristine waters converge in a stunning natural landscape.

For dinner, we decided to try La Parrilla, an Uruguayan restaurant in Alto Paraíso de Goiás. After a day of hiking and swimming, we were craving something hearty and flavorful. La Parrilla is known for its grilled meats, prepared using traditional Uruguayan techniques.

We ordered a parrillada platter, a selection of grilled meats that included beef, lamb, and pork. The meats were cooked to perfection, and the homemade chimichurri sauce added an extra layer of flavor. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and we enjoyed reminiscing about the day's adventures over a delicious meal.

To cap off our incredible day, we decided to check out Gastrobar Área 51 in Alto Paraíso de Goiás. This bar has a unique, slightly psychedelic vibe, with creative cocktails and a relaxed atmosphere. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists looking to unwind after a day of exploring the park.

Lena and I enjoyed some expertly crafted cocktails while listening to live music. The bar had a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, and we struck up conversations with some of the other patrons. It was the perfect way to end a day filled with natural beauty and adventure.

As I reflect on today, I’m filled with gratitude for the opportunity to experience the magic of Chapada dos Veadeiros. The waterfalls were stunning, the garden was mystical, and the company was wonderful. It’s days like these that remind me why I love to travel and explore new places.

Tomorrow, we're planning to visit Cachoeira Raizama, hike the Trilha Morro da Baleia, and explore Almécegas II Waterfall. I can't wait to see what other natural wonders await us in this incredible part of Brazil. Until then, aloha and good night!

“The world is full of magic things, patiently waiting for our senses to grow sharper.” – W.B. Yeats