Located 142,91 miles / 230km from Brasília, on the route between Vila de São Jorge and Cavalcante, Alto Paraíso de Goiás, in the state of Goiás, stands out as the busiest city among the bases of Chapada dos Veadeiros. Its wide array of guesthouses, restaurants, and shops make it attractive to tourists seeking comfort and infrastructure in the region. Moreover, the city is famous for holistic studies and UFO sightings, drawing visitors interested in esoteric experiences.

Things to Do in Alto Paraíso de Goiás: Exploring the Trails

Seven Falls Crossing (Travessia das Sete Queda)

For adventurers seeking an intense experience, the Seven Falls Crossing is a challenging option. Spanning 14,91 miles / 24 km, the trail requires two days to complete, with an obligatory overnight stay on-site. Capacity is limited to 15 people, necessitating prior scheduling. The journey begins at the entrance of the Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park, and the presence of a licensed guide is highly recommended. The beauty of the falls makes the effort worthwhile, and the unique experience is enriched by direct contact with nature. The park entrance fee for Brazilians is R$ 18.

Canyons Trail

For those who love moderate to advanced challenges, the Canyons Trail offers a 7,45 miles /12 km (round trip) journey, with approximately 5 hours of hiking. Highlights include the Carioca Waterfall, Canyon II, Rio Preto, and the Stone Canyons. With a limit of 200 visitors per day, the trail provides a full immersion in the natural beauty of the region. The entrance fee for all trails in the National Park is R$ 18.

Seriema Trail (Trilha da Seriema)

Ideal for those traveling with children or older individuals, the Seriema Trail is easy, lasting about 1 hour and 30 minutes (round trip) and spanning 800 meters. Leading to the Rodoviarinha Stream, the trail has a limit of 30 visitors per day, offering a peaceful experience amidst nature.

Zen Backcountry Trail (Trilha do Sertão Zen)

For trekking enthusiasts, the Zen Backcountry Trail offers a challenging journey through the plateaus of Serra da Baliza. Spanning 8 km with considerable difficulty, the trail provides stunning views of Alto Paraíso and Serra da Baleia, culminating at a waterfall 150 meters high. The guidance of an experienced guide is highly recommended to make the most of this unique experience. The entrance fee for all trails in the National Park is R$ 18.

Whale Hill Trail (Trilha do Morro da Baleia)

Situated at 1,500 meters above sea level, the Whale Hill Trail offers a panoramic view of the park. With a 3 km route, the quartzite rock formation reveals the Maytrea Garden in the distance. The journey provides a unique experience of contemplating the natural beauty of the region.

Things to Do in Alto Paraíso de Goiás: Discovering Enchanting Waterfalls

Abismo Waterfall and Janela Lookout (Cachoeira do Abismo e Mirante da Janela)

The Abismo Waterfall and Janela Lookout Trail is a fascinating journey, considered by many to be the most beautiful in Chapada dos Veadeiros. Stretching 8 km with moderate intensity, the trail starts at the location known as “UFO airport”. During the hike, adventurers will encounter simple stretches leading up to the stunning Abismo Waterfall, which reveals itself during rainy periods.

Access to the Janela Lookout requires an additional effort, with steep stretches under the intense sun. The reward upon reaching the destination is a breathtaking scene. The entrance to the trail, located on the road leading to Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park, is marked, and a fee of R$ 15 (with a guide) or R$ 25 (without a guide) is applied. Along the way, enjoy panoramic views and, on the way back, refresh in the crystal-clear waters of the Abismo Waterfall, offering ideal opportunities for photography and to contemplate the incredible sunset of the region.

Loquinhas Waterfall (Cachoeira das Loquinhas)

While not the most famous, the Loquinhas Waterfall is widely praised for its greenish waters and easy access. Located just 4 km from Alto Paraíso de Goiás, the waterfall is in a private area in Chapada dos Veadeiros, with an entrance fee of R$ 20. The wooden structure surrounded by ropes provides a unique experience for visitors to explore this little piece of paradise. Ideal for a relaxing day amidst nature.

Couros Waterfall (Catarata dos Couros)

The Couros Waterfall, located 53 km from Alto Paraíso, offers a unique experience for those seeking tranquility away from the busier attractions of Chapada dos Veadeiros. With an easy 6 km (round trip) trail, the complex of waterfalls and pools at Couros Waterfall provides numerous opportunities for swimming and picturesque landscapes. The trail follows along the edge of the Couros River, allowing for dips in clear waters. The Wall Waterfall and Almécegas 1000 Waterfall are highlights along the path, providing an enriching and relaxing experience.

Almécegas I, II, and São Bento Waterfalls (Cachoeiras Almécegas I, II e São Bento)

The complex formed by Almécegas I, Almécegas II, and São Bento Waterfalls is one of the most sought-after attractions by visitors to Chapada dos Veadeiros. Located on the São Bento Farm, the three waterfalls offer a variety of experiences. The imposing Almécegas I Waterfall, with its 7,65 in of height (45 meters), provides a splendid scene from the lookout. The entrance fee to visit Almécegas I and II Waterfalls, along with São Bento Waterfall, is R$ 70 per person, including the self-guided trail. Almécegas I Waterfall is a highlight with its “infinity edge” and deep pool, while Almécegas II complements the itinerary for a full day of exploration.

Crystal Waterfall (Cachoeira dos Cristais)

Located in Chapada dos Veadeiros, the Crystal Waterfall is easily accessible from Alto Paraíso de Goiás. In addition to trails, pools, and waterfalls, the complex offers restrooms, a snack bar, and a small playground. It’s ideal for spending a whole morning or afternoon enjoying the bath and the facilities for the whole family.

Angels and Archangels Waterfalls (Cachoeiras dos Anjos e Arcanjos)

A bit off the traditional tourist route of Chapada dos Veadeiros, the Angels and Archangels Waterfalls are true hidden treasures. The two falls of the Rio Pretinho offer swimming pools amidst charming rock formations. The tranquility and natural beauty make these waterfalls a unique option (0,93 milhas)1.5 km trail leads to the Angels Waterfall, below the Archangels Waterfall, where visitors can enjoy a serene and little-explored environment. An enriching experience for those seeking the true essence of Chapada dos Veadeiros.

Exploring the Skies of Alto Paraíso de Goiás: Thrilling Heights

Hot Air Balloon Ride in Chapada dos Veadeiros

Imagine floating in the sky, beholding the majesty of Chapada dos Veadeiros from above with a Hot Air Balloon Ride. This experience offers a privileged view of the Brazilian savannah, with winding rivers and mountain ranges that outline the Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park. The flight lasts between 45 minutes and an hour, reaching altitudes of one to two thousand meters, all at sunrise. With two balloon options – one for exclusive flights, capable of carrying two passengers, and another for group flights, accommodating up to eight people.

Company: Balonismo na Chapada )

Voo do Gavião Zipline

For adrenaline lovers, the Hawk’s Flight Zip Line at Pousada Fazenda São Bento is an unusual and thrilling experience. Located in the rural area of Alto Paraíso, the activity unfolds between the Almécegas Sierra and the hill of the São Bento Farm Lookout. With a length of 2788 ft (850 meters) and a height of 328 ft (100 meters), the zip line offers an electrifying descent, completed in approximately a minute and a half, reaching an impressive speed of 55 km/h.

Empresa: Travessia Ecoturismo

Things to Do in Alto Paraíso de Goiás: Nature Walks and Relaxing Spaces

São Jorge Village

Located at the entrance to the Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park, the Village of São Jorge is a haven of coziness and tranquility. With its simplicity preserved, the village provides a unique contact with nature and a mystical atmosphere. Built on quartz crystals, it attracted miners in the 1940s, giving rise to Vila São Jorge. Recognized as the Earth’s Heart Chakra, the place is ideal for relaxing, meeting people from different parts of the world, and enjoying peace. With lodging options for all budgets, charming guesthouses, and varied restaurants, the village offers easy access to the lush nature around it, including the famous Moon Valley.

Moon Valley (Vale da Lua)

About 6,83 mi / 11 km from São Jorge, Moon Valley features rock formations that resemble lunar craters, hence its name. Among these formations, there are natural pools, holes, and caves, providing a serene environment for bathing and relaxation. The 0,62 mi / 1 km trail to the site is easy, eliminating the need for a guide. Upon arrival, a conservation fee of R$ 15 is required. With rocks that resemble the lunar surface, Moon Valley has natural pools and a small waterfall. A fee of R$ 20 and an easy 1968 ft / 600 m trail, close to São Jorge, lead to this natural wonder. Important: the rocks are slippery, requiring caution and appropriate footwear for a safe visit.

Sat Som Drop

O Gota Sat Som offers an esoteric experience in Goiás. Built in the shape of a droplet, it is a temple dedicated to sound and silence, situated in the cerrado forest. The meditation space includes mantras, sacred chants, and music played on unique instruments. The entrance fee is R$ 20, providing an immersion in harmonizing practices.

Maytrea Garden

Considered by some as a gateway to another dimension, Maytrea’s Garden is a mysterious stretch of the cerrado. Located on the edge of GO-118, between Alto Paraíso and São Jorge, it features flower-filled fields of century-old buriti palms and imposing hills in the background. Framed by the Whale and Hole Hills, Maytrea’s Garden preserves the characteristic nature of the region, providing a spectacle at sunset. Whether it’s a mystical portal or not, its beauty certainly transports to a world apart.

How to Get to Alto Paraíso de Goiás

Access to Alto Paraíso is straightforward. Traveling there from other states of Brazil usually involves disembarking at Brasília airport, the nearest city. Most visitors to Chapada dos Veadeiros depart from Brasília. From the capital, there’s the option of a direct bus from the Interstate Bus Terminal, with an express trip of approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes. By car, the journey is reduced to 2 hours and 50 minutes via the GO-118 highway, passing through São Gabriel de Goiás and São João d’Aliança.

If you’re renting a car, it’s advisable to use RentCars, as it facilitates searching for rental agencies, availability, and prices, allowing for direct bookings through the website.

Where to stay in Alto Paraíso de Goiás

Check out the accommodations and nightly rates for 2 people available on Booking.com.

Affordable accommodations:

• Mandala Camping – Oferecemos um espaço para sua barraca: R$ 90 (nota 9,4)
• Camping Terra do Nunca: R$ 100 (nota 8,0)
• Hostel Gentileza – Guest House: R$ 110 (nota 9,2)
• Hostel do Gui: R$ 120 (nota 9,7)
• Chalé Ipê – Jatobá: R$ 131 (nota 8,5)
• Flat da Pousada Avalon (Bolinha): R$ 135 (nota 9,2)
• Pousada Recanto da Chapada: R$ 130 (nota 7,4)
• Chalé Sossego e Casa Flora R$ 156 (nota 8,1)

Intermediate accommodations::

• Pousada Camarás: R$ 300 (nota 9,5)
• Pousada Mirante da Lua: R$ 300 (9,0)
• Pousada Econois: R$ 322 (nota 8,3)
• Chapada Confort Flats: R$ 358 (nota 9,7)
• Suítes e Quartos Ouro Verde: R$ 360 (nota 9,2)
• Loft Ostara: R$ 396 (nota 9,3)
• Chalé Brisas: R$ 400 (nota 9,3)
• Chalés Recanto da Baleia: R$ 403 (nota 9,5)

More sophisticated accommodation:

• Casa do Céu com banheira panorâmica: R$ 840 (nota 9,7)
• Vila Cerrado: R$ 878 (nota 9,6)
• Santuário na Chapada dos Veadeiros: R$ 1000 (nota 9,7)
• Pousada Maya: R$ 1044 (nota 9,2)
• Lofts Toca das Corujas – Piscina e jacuzzi com aquecimento solar: R$ 2100 (nota 10)
• Casa Jacarandá: R$ 3276

When to Go to Alto Paraíso de Goiás

Avoiding the period from November to March is recommended, as more frequent rains can interfere with outings. From April to October, the weather is more stable, making this period ideal for enjoying the trails and beauty of Chapada.

Where to Eat in Alto Paraíso de Goiás

A local cuisine is an attraction in itself. On Avenida Ary Valadão Filho, the main street in the town, you’ll find excellent options, from sophisticated restaurants to snack bars. Standouts include Rancho do Waldomiro, Tapirandé Restaurant, Peregrino Restaurant, Tapiocaria, and Quiriquiri Gourmet Burger Joint. Try typical Goianian dishes, such as rice with pequi and green cornmeal pudding, in a variety of establishments catering to all tastes.

Conclusion

Alto Paraíso de Goiás offers a unique experience for visitors, not only for its stunning landscapes and mystical energy, but also for its rich local cuisine. By exploring the gastronomic options along Avenida Ary Valadão Filho, tourists have the opportunity to taste typical Goianian dishes in a variety of establishments, from sophisticated restaurants to cozy snack bars. No matter the culinary preference, there is something for every palate in this charming town of Chapada dos Veadeiros.