Do you know that dream place? That place that you think only exists in thought because it is so beautiful and special? Chapada dos Veadeiros is this place! It is paradise with the most incredible nature destinations in Brazil.
Chapada dos Veadeiros is very popular with people who want to enjoy nature or experience its esoteric side.
Its landscape mixes varied plant formations, many springs and watercourses; rocks over a billion years old, as well as landscapes of rare beauty. In other words, there’s no way not to plan a trip to Chapada and discover all the beauty it offers us!
Chapada is a tourist complex that involves the Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park and its entire surroundings.
The interesting thing about Chapada is that you can go there many times and still create several very different itineraries, because there is a huge variety of attractions and activities.
Why travel to Chapada dos Veadeiros?
Chapada dos Veadeiros is one of the most sought after destinations by tourists as it is a place with many natural beauties and also for its mystical side.
Because it has a climate that conveys a lot of tranquility due to its energy, in addition to the stunning landscapes and one of the richest fauna and flora in Brazil, Chapada is a place that everyone can and should visit one day.
Due to its variety of tours, it is possible to please the most diverse tastes. Everyone has a turn in this magical place! The trip can be alone, romantic, with family, with friends… it doesn’t matter, everyone is sure to have fun and love this place!
To relax or go on adventure, to seek adrenaline and contact with nature, this is certainly one of the best travel options.
Mysticism and the Energy of Chapada
Chapada dos Veadeiros is also known for its mysticism and the special energy that many visitors report feeling when exploring the region. Chapada is said to be situated on one of the largest quartz slabs in the world, which some believe amplifies the energy of the place, making it a point of attraction for people in search of spirituality and inner connection. This makes Chapada a popular destination for meditation, yoga and spiritual retreats.
Ecotourism and Adventure
If you are the type who likes adventure, Chapada dos Veadeiros is the ideal place. With trails for all levels of difficulty, you can explore the park on foot, swim in natural pools with crystal clear waters and venture through impressive canyons. The most popular trails include Travessia das Sete Quedas, a challenging hike that rewards adventurers with panoramic views and hidden waterfalls. In addition, activities such as rappelling, climbing and bird watching are available for those looking for a more intense experience.
The Biodiversity of the Region
Chapada dos Veadeiros is also a sanctuary for the fauna and flora of the Cerrado, the second largest biome in Brazil. The region is home to diverse species of plants and animals, many of which are endemic and threatened with extinction. During your visit, you will be able to see species such as the maned wolf, the giant anteater and several rare birds. Furthermore, Cerrado flowers, with their variety of colors and shapes, add a special charm to the landscape.
Where is Chapada dos Veadeiros?
Chapada dos Veadeiros is in Goiás, in the center-west of Brazil, about 250km from Brasília. It is made up of eight municipalities, the most important in tourism being Alto Paraíso and its village known as Vila de São Jorge, and the city of Cavalcante, in the extreme north of the park.
Entry and exit point for those coming from Brasília, Alto Paraíso is the most structured city in Chapada. There are 240km between the two cities, totaling around 3 hours of travel.
Vila de São Jorge, which is in Alto Paraíso, has the simplest infrastructure. But that doesn’t mean that it doesn’t have good bar and accommodation options, on the contrary! The bars are great and so is the accommodation. This village contains most of Chapada’s attractions.
The gateway to Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park, which was considered a Natural Heritage Site by UNESCO, is very close to São Jorge. So for those who want to visit the park, this is a great city to settle in.
A little further away is Cavalcante, which is not a city often used as a base because it is further away from the attractions of Chapada. Cavalcante is located at a distance of 90 km from Alto Paraíso. The city’s highlight is the Santa Bárbara and Capivara waterfalls, which have become increasingly famous among tourists. Cavalcante is the main entry point to these waterfalls, so many tourists make the famous round trip.
How to get to Chapada
Although Chapada dos Veadeiros is in Goiás, the closest airport is Brasília – Juscelino Kubitschek – an average of 220km away from Alto Paraíso. From the airport to Alto Paraíso, in the village of São Jorge, it is approximately 2 and a half hours by car via the BR 010 and GO 118 highways. The road is well signposted, with good asphalt and is mostly straight.
For those leaving Goiânia, the car journey is a little longer, lasting around 6 hours and the highways are BR 120, BR 010 and GO 118.
For those who prefer not to drive, there are buses that take you to Chapada dos Veadeiros – Alto Paraíso bus station -, leaving from Brasília and Goiás.
It is important to remember that there is no transport to get to the waterfalls. What happens a lot is people hitchhiking, which is quite common there. And it’s also a great way to meet new people. But without having your own car, the only downside is that you have less autonomy to take the Chapada dos Veadeiros tours.
Climate and period to visit Chapada dos Veadeiros
The best time to enjoy all the beauties that Chapada dos Veadeiros has is the period between April and October, because these are the dry months there. Especially in April when it rains much less frequently, the vegetation will be abundant and the waterfalls will be full of water, due to the rainy season that ended recently.
In May, rainfall is already very scarce and from June onwards there is practically no precipitation. The landscape of Chapada takes on new tones during this period.
And it is at the height of the drought that the sunset is most beautiful. The show is guaranteed every day during this period.
Going during the dry season avoids possible waterspouts, which can even restrict access to waterfalls and rivers. So at this time of year it becomes much easier to enjoy and experience what nature offers.
But it is possible to travel to Chapada in any month, and there are even those who prefer Chapada during the rainy season, which is the period between the months of October and April, due to the greater volume of water in the waterfalls. But remember the warning from before: be aware of the risk of waterspouts in the rainy months.
In any case, always check the weather forecast before packing your bags, so you can better plan what to take.
As the focus in this region is nature tourism, the weather will greatly influence the experience of those who visit Chapada dos Veadeiros, so you need to be aware of what to find in each period.
Climate in Chapada dos Veadeiros
Chapada dos Veadeiros has two well-defined seasons that offer different experiences to travelers: the dry and the rainy. But transition phases must also be considered, as well as temperatures. Because, even in what is considered winter, it can be hot.
During the dry months, the days are hot and sunny and the nights tend to be very cool, and the height of winter even requires a more robust coat to ward off the cold.
High season period
June is the most popular month for tourists to go to Chapada dos Veadeiros. Dry period, month of school holidays and it is the month with the most spectacular sunsets!
It’s worth remembering that June is the height of winter, and the water in the waterfalls will be much colder. But take courage and jump! The effect is invigorating. The positive side is that, without rain, the water in the waterfalls always becomes more transparent.
When not to go to Chapada
We have already explained here the advantages and disadvantages of the dry period and the rainy period.
If you only think about rain, fires and things that can ruin the trip, you will think about avoiding the months of December, January, September and October.
However, each experience is unique and it won’t necessarily rain on your trip in December. And if it rains, it’s not guaranteed that there will be a waterspout either. Therefore, if your vacation coincides with these months, it doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t go to Chapada dos Veadeiros. With all its beauty and exuberance, visiting Chapada dos Veadeiros is worth it at any time of year.
What to take for your trip to Chapada dos Veadeiros?
Since tourism in Chapada dos Veadeiros is nature, when packing, it’s a good idea to think about all the material needed for the trails, waterfalls and rivers. Here is a suggested list of what you can’t miss in your suitcase: suitable boots or sneakers, comfortable clothes, repellents, water canteen, backpack and flashlights are essential items. Swimwear or bikini, cap or hat and sunscreen are also welcome to make the most of the waterfalls and rivers in the region. And, depending on the season, a rain cover can be a great help to protect your backpack and your belongings when hiking. In addition to a jacket, preferably waterproof.
Oh, and an important tip, access to banks is a little limited, so bring cash.
Where to stay?
For those looking for a unique and differentiated accommodation experience in Chapada dos Veadeiros, Glamping Hidden Treasure is an excellent option. Located amidst the exuberant nature of the region, our Glamping offers the comfort of luxurious accommodation with the charm and simplicity of direct contact with nature. The accommodations are luxury tents, tastefully decorated and equipped with all the amenities necessary for a comfortable stay, including a queen-size bed, private bathroom and balcony overlooking the Cerrado.
Best inns and hotels
Check out a great selection of hotels and guesthouses to stay at on your trip to Chapada dos Veadeiros:
In Alto Paraíso
- Hotel Tapindaré is just 100 meters from the center of Alto Paraíso. It has great value for money and offers suites with a balcony, as well as breakfast service, swimming pool, sauna and restaurant.
- A little further from the center of Alto Paraíso, the Woodstock Guesthouse has an incredible view, with lots of nature around. It is an ideal guesthouse for those who want to disconnect. They offer free bikes and the guesthouse also has an outdoor pool and a garden.
- Close to Cascata de Loquinhas, there is Pousada Casa da Lua. This is the best option for those looking for more comfort and sophistication. The rooms are spacious and the bathrooms are private. Guests can also enjoy the swimming pool, hot tub and games room.
In São Jorge
- Do you like refinement? The Baguá Pousada inn is one of the best options in this category. It is very close to the entrance to the National Park and its structure is incredible. With spaces decorated with great taste, the inn also has a swimming pool, whirlpool and a stunning view.
- If you travel alone and want to meet people, Savana Hostel is an option. The hostel has a very new structure and an incredible vibe. They have female-only or mixed dormitories. Breakfast, included in the rate, is served daily.
- The Pousada Cristal da Terra is another excellent accommodation option in Chapada dos Veadeiros. The value for money is great, as the rooms are super cozy and the inn has a really nice structure, with a swimming pool and jacuzzi, as well as breakfast.
Campings in Chapada dos Veadeiros
For those who like camping or are looking for more affordable accommodation in Chapada dos Veadeiros, Camping do Pedu is one of the best-known and recommended campsites in São Jorge. The team that works at the site is super receptive and the structure of the campsite is really cool. The camping grounds have space for tents (which you can take or rent one of) and private rooms.
With the same space to set up your camping tent or private rooms to rent, another campsite in Chapada dos Veadeiros is Brazil Backpackers. It is located in Alto Paraíso and, in addition to being close to the main street, there is a lot of green space around it.
How long to stay in Chapada?
Choosing how many days to stay in Chapada dos Veadeiros will depend on the time you have available. As there is a lot to do there, the region is one of those where you can stay as long as you want and there will always be new things to discover.
The minimum number of days to stay in Chapada dos Veadeiros and discover those attractions that absolutely cannot be missed is 4 days. They are: Vale da Lua, Saltos do Rio Preto, Cataratas dos Couros and Cachoeira Almecegas.
But if you really want to enjoy Chapada and its beauty, 8 days are ideal. Even to have time to do not so touristy tours.
Most popular waterfalls and wells in Chapada dos Veadeiros
The biggest attraction of Chapada dos Veadeiros are, of course, the waterfalls! So, pack a good pair of sneakers to walk a lot along the trails adorned by the beauty of the cerrado and to dive into several wells of very clean water.
The Chapada dos Veadeiros waterfalls have the most varied heights. To enjoy the waterfalls, you need to follow trails that vary from 2 km to 12 km (round trip). Most of the trails are well signposted and some paths are flat. But they have trails with a higher degree of difficulty, due to the steep and rugged terrain.
Check out the best waterfalls in Chapada dos Veadeiros, with alternatives for all tastes that you can’t miss!
Don’t forget to visit the National Park. The entrance is very close to São Jorge and, of all the attractions, it is probably the most unmissable place of all.
The entire path to the waterfalls within the park is with quartz stones on the ground. The magic starts there! The waterfalls are super nice for swimming, the trails have excellent conditions and the coolest thing is that you can see how unique the vegetation of the cerrado is.
- Saltos Waterfall
Cachoeira dos Saltos is on the yellow trail (one of several that exists within the Park), to Saltos it is about 12km (round trip), and the trail is medium to heavy level.
- Cachoeira das Cariocas + Canyons I and II
The red trail is also very popular. It includes Canyons I and II, in addition to Cachoeira das Cariocas. It is a moderately strong trail, 12km long (round trip). The trail is incredibly wonderful.
- Santa Bárbara and Capivara Waterfall
It is the most famous waterfall in Chapada dos Veadeiros! The water is transparent blue (especially during the dry season), the view of Santa Bárbara is one of the things that most attracts tourists to the region. And as a bonus, you can also include a trip to Capivara, which is very close by.
The trail to Santa Bárbara is intermediate level. Arriving early will allow you to enjoy the less crowded waterfall.
As time is limited to stay at this waterfall (only 1 hour due to the flow of people), it is also worth going to Cachoeira da Capivara. She is beautiful! The trail to Capivara is a little more difficult than the first, but nothing very difficult.
- Valley of the Moon
Vale da Lua cannot be left out of your itinerary! This place has unique rock formations, which really resemble the surface of the moon. And it’s very easy to get to.
As demand is high, the ideal is to go very early or late in the afternoon.
- Couros Cataract
It can be said that the tour to Catarata dos Couros is the most complete. There’s a big drop, a well to swim in, a rock to sunbathe, a place to jump from, a beautiful view and at the end you can even include lunch with some of the best food in the region.
- Almécegas I and II
The Almécegas are two waterfalls located at Fazenda São Bento, almost in Alto Paraíso. Almécegas I is known for its 45 meter high drop and its super cold waters.
Almécegas II, has an 8 meter high drop. To get there you need to take the car and travel along a small dirt road.
The Cachoeira dos Cristais has seven waterfalls: Poço da Vovó, Massagem, Paraíso, Recanto da Paz, Corredeiras, Segredo e Véu da Noiva. It is more suitable for those who want to have more peace of mind with family and friends. Access is easy, it’s just a 400 meter walk..
Esoteric fame of Chapada dos Veadeiros
Chapada dos Veadeiros has a reputation for being an esoteric place. The city is surrounded by mysticism. This fame is given, among other factors, by the 14th parallel, an imaginary line that crosses Machu Picchu, in Peru, and also cuts through Alto Paraíso. Furthermore, the municipality is on a huge quartz slab.
According to mystics, these factors protect the city from natural disasters and provide good vibes. As a result, hundreds of people seek out the region to meditate and also to undergo holistic and spiritual treatments.
Don’t be in a hurry
As Chapada is a huge place, there is no point in wanting to see everything at once. Even if you go there several times, there will always be something new to do. So, don’t be in a hurry! Do not include several waterfalls to visit on the same day. The interesting thing is to slow down and enjoy the landscapes and connect with nature.
Do I need a guide to go to Chapada?
Even though it is no longer mandatory, hiring a guide can be a great choice.
You will have a more complete tour of the waterfalls and will learn all the information about the landscape, every detail about the unique vegetation of the cerrado and the stories of the region.
Attractions that require an accredited guide in Chapada dos Veadeiros:
- Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park
- Santa Barbara Waterfall
- Prata Waterfall
It is recommended to go with a guide to: Cataratas dos Couros, Macaquinhos, Sertão Zen and Segredo. As for the other waterfalls, you only need to pay the entrance fee on site.
Glamping da Chapada dos Veadeiros – HIDDEN TREASURE
It goes without saying that Chapada dos Veadeiros is an exceptional place, one of the most sought after destinations in Brazil, in addition to receiving tourists from all over the world. And now it is possible to enjoy nature with a touch of luxury in a campsite with all the comfort of a 5-star hotel in this incredible place.
Glamping Hidden Treasure is located in Alto Paraíso, and is the perfect place for nature lovers who are looking for accommodation that provides a real and authentic experience without having to give up comfort.
Here you can enjoy a good wine while admiring the beautiful landscape in one of our geodesic domes. Diverse styles for all audiences, from the most adventurous to those who want to enjoy privacy and luxury in tranquility and comfort.
Find out more about our accommodations here.
