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Vale da Lua: A Lunar Landscape in Brazil

Explore Brazil's Vale da Lua: Hike through otherworldly rock formations, swim in natural pools, and discover a lunar-like landscape.

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Vale da Lua, or Moon Valley, is a stunning and unique geological formation within the Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park in Goiás, Brazil. Sculpted by the São Miguel River over millions of years, the valley features smooth, otherworldly rock formations, natural pools, and small waterfalls, creating a landscape that resembles the surface of the moon.

A brief summary to Vale da Lua

  • GO-239, km 29 - s/nº, Alto Paraíso de Goiás, Zona Rural, State of Goiás, 73770-000, BR
  • Monday 8 am-4:15 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-4:15 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-4:15 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-4:15 pm
  • Friday 8 am-4:15 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-4:15 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-4:15 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven rock surfaces.
  • Bring swimwear to enjoy the natural pools.
  • Visit during the dry season (May to September) to avoid flash floods.
  • Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, as there is limited shade.
  • Be aware that the rocks can be slippery when wet.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From Alto Paraíso de Goiás, drive south on GO-239 for approximately 29 km. The entrance to Vale da Lua will be on your right. There is a parking area available. Note that the road can be a dirt road.

  • Public Transport

    Take a bus from Alto Paraíso de Goiás to São Jorge. From São Jorge, take a taxi or mototaxi to Vale da Lua, which is about 9 km away. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey. Bus fares from Alto Paraiso to Sao Jorge are typically R$10-R$20. A taxi or 'mototaxi' from Sao Jorge to Vale da Lua will cost approximately R$30-R$50.

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Discover more about Vale da Lua

Vale da Lua (Moon Valley) is a captivating natural attraction located near Alto Paraíso de Goiás, in the heart of Brazil. This extraordinary landscape is famous for its unique rock formations, carved by the São Miguel River over eons. The valley's name comes from its resemblance to the moon's surface, with smooth, greyish rocks contrasting against the surrounding green cerrado vegetation. The geological formations are a result of millions of years of erosion on volcanic and crystalline rocks. The São Miguel River's crystal-clear waters have sculpted crevasses, ravines, and natural pools, offering visitors a unique environment to explore. The rocks themselves are part of the Paranoá Group, dating back 1.3 to 1.6 billion years. The constant flow of water and sand has created the rounded shapes and pot-like formations that characterize the valley. Visitors can hike along well-maintained trails, discovering the various rock formations and enjoying panoramic views. The natural pools formed by the river offer a refreshing escape, inviting visitors to swim and relax in the cool water. The valley is also home to diverse plant and animal life, adding to the area's natural beauty. Vale da Lua is located on private property near the Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park. The park itself protects a vast area of high-altitude cerrado, showcasing the region's unique landscape and flora. While only a small percentage of the park is open to tourism, it offers opportunities to see endangered species and explore waterfalls and canyons. Visiting during the dry season (May to September) is recommended, as the rainy season can cause flash floods.

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