Explore the Waterfalls of Chapada dos Guimarães National Park

Chapada dos Guimarães

Unveiling the waterfalls of Chapada dos Guimarães National Park is an experience for nature lovers and adventurers of all ages.

In the heart of Brazil, Chapada dos Guimarães National Park emerges as a natural sanctuary, with landscapes so breathtaking that they are difficult to describe! This paradise offers a unique experience of immersion in nature, with its challenging trails, lush flora, and of course, its magnificent waterfalls. This is the trip you will never forget!

Chapada dos Guimarães National Park

Chapada dos Guimarães National Park is located between the municipalities of Cuiabá and Chapada dos Guimarães, in the state of Mato Grosso. It is a natural area of the Brazilian Cerrado – the second largest biome in the country – and is home to a large part of the sources of the main Brazilian rivers.

The diversity is such that the park is home to 659 known species of plants, 44 of fish, 242 of birds, and 76 of mammals. Not to mention the 10 different types of Cerrado vegetation and the several waterfalls.

If you are going to Cuiabá, take the opportunity to visit Chapada dos Guimarães. The destination is ideal for those with a lot of time or a little. The idea is to adapt your itinerary in the best way possible! You can even do a day trip from Cuiabá. Check it out!

Hit the Road

Shall we explore a circuit of waterfalls in Chapada dos Guimarães National Park? This tour starts early, leaving from Cuiabá. So, pack your backpack and your sneakers! In less than 1 hour on the road, you will already be entering the park and that’s where the adventure begins.

Waterfall Route

The destination of this tour is the valley of the Independência stream, a tributary of the Coxipó River. It cuts through the park and gives rise to a small sandstone cave and several waterfalls. The landscapes are stunning!

The car will drop you off at the beginning of the trail and the guide will accompany you throughout the approximately 7-kilometer route – round trip. After 40 minutes of walking, you will see the Andorinhas Waterfall. It has a 30-meter waterfall and is beautiful! This is the first stop for a refreshing swim and rest, as the tour is just beginning!

With renewed energy, you will walk upstream. The next stop is Prainha Waterfall. It has a large natural pool and a kind of little beach formed by the sand from the river banks. Another delightful option for a swim!

Next comes the Degrau Waterfall, with its natural whirlpool, and the Pulo Waterfall, with its approximately 3.5-meter drop. Back on the trail, you will head to the 7 de Setembro Waterfall. Enjoy swimming to reach the stone bench just below the waterfall! This is the perfect place to receive a natural massage.

Cave on the Way

After the last swim of the trail, the walk will be towards Casa de Pedra. It is a small sandstone cave carved by the Independência stream. It is well worth the visit!

It is said that the cave served as a shelter for enemies of the Military Regime in the 1960s. And more: it was also used as a refuge for slaves, indigenous people, bandeirantes, and much more. Today, the cave is inhabited only by the region’s fauna!

Back to Cuiabá

The cave is the last stop of the tour. From there, you will take the trail back to the car. The guide will take you back to Cuiabá and you will be left with that feeling of wanting more! Go ahead and book another tour for the next day, because Chapada has a lot of beauty to be explored!

When to Go?

You can visit the park at any time of the year. However, the period from December to March has the highest incidence of rain. Between July and October, it is the dry season, with high temperatures. But one thing is certain: regardless of the time of year, every step reveals new breathtaking views, with opportunities for memorable photos along the way!

Stay Tuned!

This tour lasts an average of 6 hours. So, be prepared! Wear light clothing and comfortable sneakers. In your backpack, take water, sunscreen, insect repellent, swimwear, and some snacks. Don’t forget sunglasses and a hat to protect yourself. Oh, and don’t forget to bring a bag to pick up your trash. Nature thanks you!

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