Ever heard of Slow Travel? Traveling is a wonderful way to experience new cultures, explore landscapes and create lasting memories. However, we are often trapped in the idea that we must race against the clock to visit as many destinations and attractions as possible in a short period of time, which can make us even more tired and stressed after the holidays. Fortunately, there is a trend that is changing this mindset: slow travel. In this article, we’ll explore the concept of slow travel and how it allows us to discover the world at our own pace.
What is Slow Travel?
Slow travel is a movement that values the travel experience itself, instead of just focusing on crossing places off the list of visited destinations. By adopting slow travel, we slow down the pace of our travels, allowing us to immerse ourselves in local culture, interact with communities and make the most of every place we visit.
Benefits of Slow Travel
Unlike fast travel and racing, slow travel encourages us to appreciate both the journey and the final destination. By traveling more slowly, we can enjoy the landscapes, the means of transport and even the breaks along the way. It’s an opportunity to connect with the world around us and savor every moment of the travel experience. No rush, no rules and no rigid scripts. Check out other benefits:
Connection with local culture
By spending more time in a destination, we have a chance to really connect with the local culture. We can learn about the customs, cuisine and native language of a place in a deeper way. By interacting with the locals, we can gain a new perspective on the place, going beyond the traditional sights.
Stress reduction
Traveling fast, jumping from one destination to another can be exhausting and stressful. Slow travel allows us to relax and enjoy the journey. There’s no need to worry about sticking to a tight schedule or running out of time. We can give ourselves time to rest, reflect, and really enjoy every moment.
Sustainability and Responsibility
Slow travel is aligned with principles of sustainability and responsibility. By traveling more slowly, we reduce our carbon footprint by avoiding fast flights and opting for more sustainable means of transport, such as trains or bicycles. Also, by spending more time in a destination, we can contribute to the local economy and support small businesses.
Slow Travel in Brazil
Slow travel is an approach to travel that emphasizes immersion, connection with the destination and the authentic experience, in contrast to conventional tourism, which often focuses on visiting as many places as possible in a short period of time.
Brazil is a vast and diverse country, with a rich culture, stunning landscapes and a variety of amazing destinations to explore. Check out some places to do Slow Travel in Brazil:
Chapada Diamantina, Bahia: Located in the state of Bahia, Chapada Diamantina is known for its impressive landscapes, waterfalls, canyons and stunning trails. It is a perfect destination for hiking, camping and nature contemplation.
Iguaçu National Park, Paraná: Known for its famous Iguaçu Falls, the park offers a unique experience of connecting with nature. Explore the trails and admire the impressive waterfalls, enjoying the region’s abundant biodiversity.
Paraty, Rio de Janeiro: This charming colonial city in the state of Rio de Janeiro is a perfect destination for slow travel. With its well-preserved historic center, cobblestone streets and proximity to beaches and trails in the Atlantic Forest, Paraty invites you to cultural immersion and contact with nature.
Bonito, Mato Grosso do Sul: Known for its crystalline waters and rich aquatic life, Bonito is a destination for nature lovers. Explore the caves, float in rivers with transparent waters and dive in natural pools, enjoying an intimate contact with the environment.
Serra da Mantiqueira, Minas Gerais/São Paulo/Rio de Janeiro: This mountain range offers a peaceful atmosphere, beautiful landscapes and several options for outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling and bird watching. Cities like Monte Verde (MG), Visconde de Mauá (RJ) and São Francisco Xavier (SP) are great starting points to explore the region.
Slow Travel na Chapada dos Veadeiros
Chapada dos Veadeiros, located in the state of Goiás, is a perfect destination for a slow travel experience. Known for its natural beauty and mystical energy, the region offers a unique combination of waterfalls, trails, rock formations and rich biodiversity. Here are some suggestions to enjoy Chapada dos Veadeiros at a more leisurely pace:
São Jorge: The small village of São Jorge is a popular base for exploring the Chapada dos Veadeiros region. With a rustic and cozy atmosphere, the village offers several accommodation options, restaurants, cafes and handicraft stores. Stroll the quiet streets, interact with the locals and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere.
Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park: The national park is a conservation area that is home to a variety of trails and waterfalls. Explore the well-signposted trails, such as the Trilha dos Cânions, the Trilha dos Saltos and the Trilha dos Sete Saltos, where you can appreciate the beauty of the rock formations, natural pools and waterfalls.
Waterfalls: Chapada dos Veadeiros is famous for its numerous waterfalls. Some of the most popular ones include Cachoeira Santa Bárbara, Cachoeira dos Saltos, Cachoeira Almécegas I and II, among others. Take the opportunity to swim, relax and cool off in the crystalline waters, in addition to exploring the trails that lead to them.
Moon Valley: Located next to the National Park, the Moon Valley is a unique rock formation that resembles the lunar surface. The rocks formed by the action of the water form pools and natural slides. Spend some time exploring this surreal setting and relax in the crystal clear pools.
Quilombola Communities: The Chapada dos Veadeiros region is also home to quilombola communities, which preserve their traditions and culture. Pay a visit to the communities of Kalunga or Engenho II to learn about the history of these communities, experience the local cuisine and participate in cultural activities.
Slow Travel Hotel
When planning a slow travel experience, it is important to consider choosing accommodations that align with this style of travel. In this sense, Glamping is the ideal choice. Check out our tips for practicing Slow Travel in Glamping:
Choose glamping in a natural environment: glampings located in natural areas such as forests, mountains, beaches or national parks. These locations provide a deeper connection with nature and offer a peaceful and serene experience.
Enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, horseback riding, canoeing or bird watching. These activities allow you to explore the surrounding nature more slowly and consciously.
Disconnect: An essential part of slow travel is disconnecting from digital distractions and enjoying the present moment.
Enjoy sustainable and local meals: here at Glamping Hidden Treasure we offer meals prepared with local and organic ingredients. Enjoy the regional gastronomy, try local products and enjoy the authentic cuisine of Chapada dos Veadeiros.
Participate in local and cultural activities: Ask our Concierge about local activities offered near glamping, such as village visits, craft fairs, cultural festivals or traditional workshops. These experiences allow you to connect with the local culture and gain a deeper understanding of Cerrado Goiano.
Practice mindfulness and relaxation: Take advantage of the tranquil atmosphere of glamping to practice mindfulness, meditation or yoga. Make time to relax, read a book, take gentle walks or simply enjoy the peace and quiet around you.
Embrace nature, slow down and enjoy the simplicity of outdoor life here at Glamping Hidden Treasure without giving up comfort!
