Kalungas – Live an Experience in the Largest Territorial Quilombo in Brazil, in Chapada dos Veadeiros

Published in 10/07/2024

A four-day expedition in Chapada dos Veadeiros is an alternative for those who want to go beyond the waterfalls

Located in the heart of Brazil, Chapada dos Veadeiros is a destination that captivates adventurers and nature lovers from all over the world. With its breathtaking landscapes, crystal-clear waterfalls, fascinating trails, and rich biodiversity, the region offers a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors.

Expedition through the Kalunga Historical Site and Cultural Heritage

Have you ever imagined going beyond the obvious in Chapada dos Veadeiros and participating in a four-day expedition within the largest territorial quilombo in Brazil? Well, you can live this experience. For four days, you will walk through trails in the Kalunga Historical Site and Cultural Heritage, starting from Cavalcante towards the Funil do Paranã, and passing through the intriguing Vão de Almas. A true immersion in the Kalunga culture, getting to know the reality of these people and contributing to the income of those who live in the region.

Did you know? The Kalunga people originate from the times of slavery when slaves fled and ended up establishing a community in the Chapada dos Veadeiros region. For about 200 years, this community was isolated from civilization and became a kind of guardian of the Cerrado biome.

Get ready to walk

The four days are divided into trails that, in total, make up 48 kilometers. You will enjoy moments of contemplation in the Vale do Vão de Almas and the Funil do Rio Paranã, as well as dive into the Candaru Waterfall and the rapids of the Capivara River.

The experience begins and ends in Brasília, so Brasília International Airport is your destination. Leaving from the capital of Brazil, the transfer takes you directly to the city of Alto Paraíso (GO) and then to Cavalcante, where you will sleep in the Kalunga do Engenho Village, already in Chapada dos Veadeiros. Take advantage of this first night to rest a lot, as from here you will walk a lot.

The second day starts very early. Ready for the crossing? Leaving from the Engenho, it will be 16 kilometers until you reach the next Kalunga camp. Along the way, you will come across incredible landscapes, waterfalls, and natural pools in the famous Vão das Almas. Enjoy the waterfall moments to refresh yourself and renew your energy for the walk.

The third day is more intense. The walk continues through the Vão das Almas until you reach the funnel of the Paranã River. A total of 21 kilometers passing through wonderful places. The day ends in another Kalunga Camp, in another immersion in the community. It’s a rich moment to hear stories and experiences from the people who live in the camp!

And we have reached the last day of this experience. After 11 kilometers of trail, amidst wonderful landscapes, lots of water, and baths in true natural pools, we reach the Paranã funnel. Mission accomplished! And it is here that the transfer picks you up to take you back to Brasília. But since you arrive in the capital at night, it is ideal to sleep in the city and, who knows, get to know Brasília a little the next day.

Unforgettable Camps

The great moments of learning from this journey begin when night falls. This is because you will sleep in Kalunga camps, and this is an excellent opportunity to talk to the people of the community.

The Kalunga people share a lot of knowledge with travelers, especially when it comes to the biodiversity of the Cerrado biome. Few know the fruits, roots, and plants present in the central region of Brazil like these people. The knowledge acquired by past generations continues to be transmitted to this day.

And let’s not forget about Kalunga food, which is an immersion in itself. You will taste dishes prepared with pequi – a typical fruit of the cerrado – and savor a homemade cashew sweet, for example. The menus are quite diverse and value everything that the Cerrado offers best. Additionally, vegans and vegetarians are well catered for on this expedition.

Stay tuned!

Throughout the expedition, a 4×4 support car will be available for the transport of camp structure, luggage, and food. The group will be accompanied by a Kalunga guide and a Montanero guide, so you can have the best experience. And don’t forget the importance of hiring companies that provide all the necessary safety equipment for hiking expeditions.

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