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Chapada dos Guimarães National Park: A South American Jewel

Explore Brazil's heartland: rugged cliffs, stunning waterfalls, and ancient rock formations in Chapada dos Guimarães National Park.

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Chapada dos Guimarães National Park, located in Mato Grosso, Brazil, is a stunning natural area marked by red sandstone cliffs, inspiring waterfalls, and rugged terrain. As the geographic center of South America, it offers a unique landscape and diverse ecosystems within the Pantanal Biosphere Reserve.

A brief summary to Chapada dos Guimarães

  • Chapada dos Guimarães, Chapada dos Guimarães, State of Mato Grosso, 78195-000, BR
  • Visit website

Local tips

  • Visit during the dry season (May-September) for the best weather and trail conditions.
  • Hire a local guide for certain trails and attractions, especially those requiring special access or keys.
  • Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and insect repellent, especially for longer hikes.
  • Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as trails can be rocky and uneven.
  • Check weather conditions before your visit, as they can change rapidly.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    From Cuiabá, take a bus from the bus station to Chapada dos Guimarães. Buses depart approximately every hour, and the journey takes about 1 hour. From the Chapada dos Guimarães bus terminal, local transportation options like taxis or Uber are available to reach specific park entrances or attractions. Bus fare from Cuiabá to Chapada dos Guimarães is approximately R$18.

  • Car

    From Cuiabá, drive along the MT-251 highway towards Chapada dos Guimarães. The drive is approximately 65 km and takes about an hour. Follow signs to the park entrance or specific attractions like Véu de Noiva Waterfall or Stone City. Parking is available at most major attractions within the park. Be aware that some areas, like the Aroe Jari Cavern Complex, are located on private property and require a licensed guide. Tolls are not applicable on the direct route from Cuiabá to Chapada dos Guimarães National Park. Parking fees vary depending on the specific location, but expect to pay around R$10.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are available in Chapada dos Guimarães. A taxi ride from the town center to attractions like Stone City can cost between R$30 to R$50 and takes approximately 20 minutes. Uber rates vary, so check the app for current pricing. This is a convenient option for reaching specific locations within the park without a personal vehicle.

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Discover more about Chapada dos Guimarães

Chapada dos Guimarães National Park, established in 1989, protects a significant portion of Brazil's cerrado biome. The park spans 33,000 hectares and is characterized by dramatic red sandstone cliffs that rise between 600 and 800 meters. These cliffs, along with rugged canyons and numerous waterfalls, create a landscape often compared to the American Southwest. The park is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, including over 650 plant species, 44 fish species, 242 bird species, and 76 mammal species. Wildlife includes the maned wolf, giant anteater, jaguar, pampas deer, and howler monkey. Birdwatchers can spot red macaws, tropical screech-owls, and scissor-tailed nightjars. Key attractions include the Véu de Noiva (Bridal Veil) Waterfall, a 90-meter cascade easily accessible via a short trail. Other popular spots include the Geodesic Center of South America, marked by panoramic views, and the Stone City, known for its unique rock formations. Visitors can explore numerous trails, swim in natural pools, and discover archaeological sites with cave paintings and fossils. The park's varied terrain serves as a transition between the Paraguay and Amazon river basins, contributing to its ecological diversity. The dry season, from May to September, offers warm weather and ample sunlight, while the rainy season, from October to April, brings lush vegetation but can affect accessibility.

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