
Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park
A high plateau in Brazil's Cerrado, famed for ancient rocks, stunning waterfalls, and unique geological wonders.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps

Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A high plateau in Brazil's Cerrado, famed for ancient rocks, stunning waterfalls, and unique geological wonders.
"Words can’t capture the beauty of the National Park! An unforgettable experience awaits."

🚗 Rent a Car for Flexibility
While some areas are accessible by transfer , a rental car offers the most freedom to explore diverse attractions .
💧 Hydration is Key!
Carry at least 2 liters of water per person, especially for longer hikes. Refill at falls if possible .

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cachoeira Santa Bárbara
Cavalcante
Iconic turquoise waters framed by lush cerrado. Requires a Kalunga guide and 'pau de arara' transport .

Cachoeira do Dragão
São João d'Aliança
A challenging but rewarding trek through varied terrain to a stunning waterfall and pools .

Vale da Lua
Near Alto Paraíso
Otherworldly rock formations resembling lunar craters, sculpted by water over millennia .

Saltos Trail
Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park
Features impressive waterfalls, including the 80m and 120m falls, with well-marked trails .
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Guide Up or Go Solo?
Beat the Crowds & Heat
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Rent a Car for Flexibility
While some areas are accessible by transfer, a rental car offers the most freedom to explore diverse attractions.
💧 Hydration is Key!
Carry at least 2 liters of water per person, especially for longer hikes. Refill at falls if possible.
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Essential
Trails can be rocky and wet. Water shoes are recommended for aquatic trails.
💰 Factor in Guide Fees
Many popular spots require guides, which adds to the cost. Budget accordingly.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Rent a Car for Flexibility
While some areas are accessible by transfer, a rental car offers the most freedom to explore diverse attractions.
💧 Hydration is Key!
Carry at least 2 liters of water per person, especially for longer hikes. Refill at falls if possible.
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Essential
Trails can be rocky and wet. Water shoes are recommended for aquatic trails.
💰 Factor in Guide Fees
Many popular spots require guides, which adds to the cost. Budget accordingly.
📱 Download Offline Maps
Cell service can be spotty. Offline maps are crucial for navigation.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Chapada dos Veadeiros for its breathtaking natural beauty, particularly its stunning waterfalls and unique geological formations. The well-maintained trails and opportunities for hiking and swimming are major draws. However, some find the costs associated with guides and entrance fees to be high, and the heat can be intense during certain times of the year.
"Words can’t capture the beauty of the National Park! You can explore and enjoy numerous waterfalls—many accessible by hiking, and some even reachable by transfer. An unforgettable experience awaits."
Rodrigo Rocha
"Beautiful place and well kept tracking path! Expansive though… but it worth it ❤️"
Jun Hashimoto
"We arrived in the afternoon so had to take the over priced minibus to the start of the walk. But it was worth it because the scenery is gob smacking. Went on the yellow walk to the big waterfall and then the shorter walk through the canyon. It was supposed to be 1km but felt much longer but great observation deck on the way with incredible views and a beautiful small beach at the end for a dip, then just a couple of hundred yards on a boardwalk back to the bus pick up which arrived on time to get us. Small shop at the bus stop for water and snacks. Take more water than you think you will need, at least 2 litres per person, especially if it's hot. Climb up and down to the waterfall was a little hard in the heat but plenty of places to stop to catch your breath. By far the most impressive scenery in the area. Went on canyon walk the next day. A much easier walk but much less impressive scenery."
Paul Davis
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The main gateway cities are Alto Paraíso de Goiás and São Jorge. You can fly into Brasília International Airport (BSB) and then rent a car or take a bus to Alto Paraíso, which is about a 3-4 hour drive. From Alto Paraíso, you can arrange transfers or rent a car to reach other areas like São Jorge.
Yes, it's possible but less convenient. Some tours offer transfers and guided trips. You can also rely on local taxis or pre-arranged shuttles between towns, but accessing more remote attractions might be challenging without your own vehicle.
For maximum flexibility, renting a car is highly recommended, especially if you plan to visit multiple attractions. Some roads are unpaved, so a 4x4 might be beneficial depending on the season and your itinerary.
Public transport is limited. While there are intercity buses between Alto Paraíso and São Jorge, getting to specific waterfalls often requires private transfers, taxis, or guided tours. Some videos mention 'pau de arara' for specific waterfall access.
Chapada dos Veadeiros is approximately 230 km (about a 3-4 hour drive) from Brasília. This makes it a popular destination for those flying into the capital.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The National Park itself has an entrance fee. However, many individual waterfalls and attractions outside the park are privately owned and have their own entrance fees, which can vary significantly.
Entrance fees for the National Park are typically modest. However, specific prices can change, so it's best to check the official park website or inquire locally upon arrival.
While many popular waterfalls have entrance fees, some trails within the National Park might be accessible with just the park entrance fee. Always verify current access policies.
For the National Park, it's generally possible to buy tickets on arrival, but it's advisable to arrive early, as visitor capacity can be reached, especially during peak season.
Opening hours vary greatly. The National Park usually has set hours, while private attractions often operate from morning to late afternoon. It's best to check the specific hours for each waterfall or attraction you plan to visit.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Popular trails include the Saltos Trail (11 km round trip) in the National Park, offering views of impressive waterfalls. Other highly recommended hikes lead to Cachoeira Santa Bárbara and Cachoeira do Dragão, though these often require guides.
For many popular waterfalls like Santa Bárbara, a guide is mandatory. For trails within the National Park, guides are optional but recommended for deeper insights and safety, especially on longer or more challenging routes.
Trails range from easy to strenuous. Some involve significant elevation changes and rocky terrain. The Cachoeira do Dragão trail, for instance, is about 13 km round trip. Assess your fitness level and choose trails accordingly.
Absolutely! Chapada dos Veadeiros is famous for its numerous waterfalls and crystal-clear pools perfect for swimming and refreshing dips after a hike.
Pack plenty of water (at least 2 liters per person), snacks, sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, swimwear, a towel, and sturdy hiking shoes. A waterproof bag for electronics is also a good idea.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Alto Paraíso de Goiás and São Jorge offer a variety of restaurants, from simple local eateries serving regional cuisine to more upscale options. Many places focus on organic and vegetarian dishes, reflecting the region's vibe.
Yes, Chapada dos Veadeiros is known for its healthy and often vegetarian/vegan-friendly food scene. Many restaurants cater to these dietary preferences.
Some attractions have small snack bars or restaurants, but options can be limited. It's often best to pack your own snacks and water, especially for longer hikes.
Expect hearty dishes featuring ingredients from the Cerrado region. Look for dishes with pequi, baru nuts, and local fruits. Many places offer a 'prato feito' (set meal) for lunch.
Prices can vary. While some tourist-focused restaurants can be pricey, you can find more affordable local eateries, especially in the towns.
📸 📸 Photography
Almost everywhere! Key spots include the viewpoints on the Saltos Trail, the unique rock formations at Vale da Lua, and the vibrant waters of Cachoeira Santa Bárbara. The dramatic landscapes and waterfalls offer endless photo opportunities.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Midday sun can be harsh, but can also create dramatic effects on the water.
A good smartphone camera can capture stunning shots. However, for landscape photography, a DSLR or mirrorless camera with a wide-angle lens will be beneficial. A polarizing filter can help manage the bright sunlight.
Drone usage is often restricted in national parks and protected areas. Always check local regulations before flying a drone to avoid fines or confiscation.
Use a wide-angle lens to encompass the entire waterfall and its surroundings. Including a person in the frame can also help convey the immense scale of the falls.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
❤️ Couples & Wellness Seekers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Waterfalls
When planning your waterfall adventures, remember that access can vary. Some, like Santa Bárbara, necessitate hiring local Kalunga guides and utilizing unique transport like the 'pau de arara'. Others, such as Cachoeira do Dragão, involve longer, more demanding trails. Always check current conditions, required gear (like water shoes ), and potential guide requirements before setting out.
The Unique Geology of the Cerrado
This ancient geology is also responsible for the region's rich mineral deposits and crystal-clear waters, which are believed by some to have healing properties. The Cerrado biome itself is a vital part of the experience, a unique savanna ecosystem with incredible biodiversity, adapted to fire and dry seasons. Exploring this landscape offers a glimpse into Earth's deep past and the resilience of nature.
Community and Local Culture
The region also attracts a diverse population, including artists, spiritual seekers, and eco-tourism enthusiasts, contributing to a unique bohemian and alternative vibe, particularly in towns like Alto Paraíso de Goiás. You can find charming accommodations, like the villages mentioned in some videos, that offer an immersive experience into local life. Engaging respectfully with the local culture enhances the overall travel experience.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit