Chapada dos Veadeiros

Goiás, Brazil

Chapada dos Veadeiros, located in the northeastern part of Goiás, is a mesmerizing expanse of Brazil’s Cerrado biome, celebrated for its dramatic landscapes, crystalline waterfalls, and spiritual allure. Anchored by the Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2001, the region sits atop an ancient plateau estimated to be 1.8 billion years old, rich in quartz crystal deposits that many believe imbue the area with a unique energy.

The park spans over 240,000 hectares and encompasses the municipalities of Alto Paraíso de Goiás, Cavalcante, and Colinas do Sul, offering a sanctuary for biodiversity and a playground for eco-adventurers. The terrain is a tapestry of rugged canyons, towering rock formations, and verdant valleys carved by countless rivers and streams. Among its most iconic features are the Salto do Rio Preto waterfalls, which plunge over 120 meters into a deep canyon, and the Vale da Lua, a lunar-like landscape sculpted by the São Miguel River.

Trails like the Sete Quedas and Mirante da Janela lead hikers through fields of wildflowers, past natural pools, and to panoramic vistas that stretch across the Cerrado’s golden plains. The park’s altitude, ranging from 600 to 1,650 meters, creates a microclimate that supports a rich array of flora and fauna, including jaguars, maned wolves, toucans, and orchids. Beyond its natural wonders, Chapada dos Veadeiros is steeped in cultural and mystical significance.

The nearby town of Alto Paraíso de Goiás is a hub for spiritual seekers, artists, and ecotourists, known for its alternative therapies, crystal shops, and holistic retreats. The region is also home to the Kalunga communities, descendants of escaped enslaved Africans who have preserved their traditions and now welcome visitors to experience their heritage and hospitality.