Chapada dos Veadeiros

Tips for Chapada dos Veadeiros

Be a Conscious Tourist: Help preserve Chapada dos Veadeiros. Do not start fires in cerrado areas, especially during the dry season. Do not litter on the trails and avoid causing any damage to the environment. Follow the visitation rules for each waterfall and, most importantly, adhere to safety guidelines.

Be Cautious During the Rainy Season: Flash floods are common at the waterfalls in Chapada dos Veadeiros. Before heading to an attraction, consult with locals and area managers to understand the risks on the day of your visit. This is a serious matter, and the risk of accidents is real. Always stay alert for significant changes in water levels and water color, as both are signs of a potential flash flood. At the first sign of rain, leave the waterfall area and seek higher ground for your safety.

Guided or Self-Guided Tours: Most of the waterfalls in Chapada dos Veadeiros can be explored on self-guided routes, and a guide is not necessary. However, those who feel more comfortable with a professional’s assistance can hire a guide. Do not venture alone on unfamiliar trails if you do not feel confident. For more experienced hikers, trail apps like Wikiloc are good options to ensure the correct route.

Mandatory Guides for Certain Waterfalls: In some waterfalls, the presence of a guide is mandatory. This includes Santa Bárbara, Candaru, Capivara, and the Prata Waterfall Complex, all located in Cavalcante. When hiring a guide, look for accredited services or contact the local guide association near the attraction, such as in the Kalunga Engenho II Community, where many professionals are available. The Visitor Information Center in Alto Paraíso is also a good option for obtaining contact information for guides.

Safety in Chapada dos Veadeiros: Chapada dos Veadeiros is a safe destination, and reports of robberies or other crimes against tourists are uncommon. Nevertheless, it’s always important to stay aware of your valuables, especially when visiting attractions. Avoid leaving items in plain sight inside your car. There have been instances of theft at more isolated viewpoints, such as Morro da Baleia. In such places, avoid using equipment that might draw too much attention, like drones.

Road Conditions: The main roads leading to the key bases—Alto Paraíso, São Jorge, and Cavalcante—are in good condition. However, the roads to the waterfalls are almost always dirt roads, some in poor condition (such as the road to Santa Bárbara Waterfall). When traveling to Chapada, exercise caution to avoid accidents or damage to your vehicle.

Basic Services in Major Bases: In larger bases like Alto Paraíso, Cavalcante, and São Jorge, you’ll easily find basic services such as pharmacies, markets, and other shops. The most developed commerce is in Alto Paraíso. Although there are shops, it’s a good idea to bring everything you need for your trip.

Sun Protection: Sunscreen is a must in Chapada dos Veadeiros. The heat is intense, and you will often be exposed to the sun for long periods. Also, wear clothing with UV protection. Lip balm is important, especially during the dry season when the humidity is low, and your lips may crack.

Stay Hydrated: During the dry season, drink plenty of water and stay hydrated.

Payment Methods: Cards—especially Mastercard and Visa—are accepted at most businesses, but often only for debit transactions. Always carry some cash for emergencies and to pay for entrance fees at attractions if needed.

Limited Banking Services: Banks are rare in Chapada dos Veadeiros. There’s only one Itaú bank in Alto Paraíso, which also has a post office and a lottery shop where you can withdraw money from Banco do Brasil.

Area Code: The area code for Chapada dos Veadeiros is 62.

Cell Service and Internet: There is cell signal in Alto Paraíso and São Jorge Village, but not all carriers work well. In more remote areas, there is practically no signal. If you need to resolve an issue, do not rely on the internet or phone service in Chapada dos Veadeiros; the service may be unavailable.

Wi-Fi in Lodges: Lodges usually offer Wi-Fi, but the signal is often weak. If this is important to you, check with the agency or lodge to ensure that there will be internet access.

Basic Packing List

📷 Camera and underwater camera (with accessories)

🥾 Hiking boots or other suitable footwear

🩴 Flip-flops

🌞 Sunscreen

🦟 Insect repellent

💊 Personal medications

🧴 Personal hygiene products (for those doing overnight hikes, small containers are ideal)

👙 Swimwear

🎒 Small backpack for short hikes

🧥 Light jacket for summer (it can get chilly at night)

🧣 Heavier jacket for winter (during the dry season, the nights are quite cold)

🌧️ Windbreaker and waterproof jacket or raincoat for the rainy season

🧼 Compact, highly absorbent towel

🧢 Hat, cap, and sunglasses

🔋 External battery charger (if you can’t live without your phone and want to take many photos)

🛍️ Waterproof bag

👟 Comfortable shoes and clothing for going out at night (not all streets are paved)