One of the main attractions in the Brazilian Cerrado, the
Chapada dos Guimarães National Park was created in 1989 in order to protect the enormous sandstone formations, outlooks that provide a broad view of the swampland plains and many waterfalls, thanks to the rich hydrography and sudden changes in altitude. The Véu de Noiva (Bridal Veil) waterfall, near the Visitors' Center, is the Chapada do Guimarães postcard. Within its 33 thousand hectares, the location is also home to more than 50 archaeological sites with prehistoric cave pictures and animal fossils. It is a natural Brazilian heritage, located in the township of Chapada dos Guimarães, in the State of Mato Grosso, and it represents one of the countless areas of national preservation. During the walks through the brush it is possible to discover still untouched areas. The twisted trees are unique; flowers of all colours and exotic fruit exhibit a generous and beautiful Cerrado. The Park is open to the public from 8:00a.m. to 5:00p.m. and can be visited all year round. However, the best time to get to know the location is between May and July, when the region is filled with flowers and the waterfalls are full. During the rainy season, between December and April, the trails are dangerous and access to some attractions is blocked.
The climate in the region is semi-humid, with average annual temperatures of 24 degrees Celsius, highs of 30 degrees Celsius and lows of 18 degrees Celsius. The rainy season is between the months of December and April. In the winter, from June to September, the outlook points can be foggy, jeopardizing the view.
State: Mato Grosso
Region: Midwest
Population: 15,755 inhabitants
Distance from Cuiabá: 55 km (34 miles)
Attractions
Waterfalls
Véu de Noiva, Independência, Andorinhas, 19 de Novembro, Pedra Furada, Sete de Setembro, Cachoeirinha, Salgadeira and dozens of other waterfalls wash the soul of all those seeking an escape from urban life. The transparent waters descend and form natural pools in creeks and small pebble-filled rivers, where lambaris (small fish) swim, indifferent to the company of bathers. It is recommended to hire a guide to accompany you on this outing.
Mount São Jerônimo
One of the highest points in Mato Grosso at 1020 meters, it provides a fabulous panoramic view. The difficult walk to the top passes by curious sandstone formations, such as the Jacaré de Pedra (Stone Alligator), the Pedra Furada (Hole in the Stone) and the Mesa do Sacrifício (Sacrificial Table). The trail finishes after a 30-minute steep, uphill climb that is inaccessible on rainy days.
House of Stone
This is a 70-square meter cavern with a stream and a light trail from the Park Visitors' Center. It also contains cave pictures inside.
City of Stone
It is possible to walk by rocky formations, sculptured by wind and water, located along the cliffs of the Chapada, 350 meters high. The location is reminiscent of a city made of stone, which gave it its name. Access is made along a road that connects the Chapada dos Guimarães to the district of Água Fria, 24 km (15 miles) away.
Aroe Jari Cavern (Morada das Almas) (Home of Souls)
The largest sandstone cavern in Brazil, Aroe Jari extends nearly 1550 meters and several pre-historic inscriptions can be found inside. Access is achieved over a moderate trail that is 4.5 km (2.8 miles) long, an average 1-hour-and-20-minute walk.
Lagoa Azul Cavern
This is a 30-minute walk from the Aroe Jari Cavern and it includes a lagoon with crystal clear waters where bathing is prohibited. Only 50 people are allowed to visit per day, and it is obligatory to hire a guide.
Paredão do Eco (Echo Wall)
This is a natural outlook formed by a huge sandstone wall at the top of the Chapada. Access is made along the road that leads to Água Fria, and then a secondary road that enters the Park.
Portão do Inferno (Gateway to Hell)
This is an 85-meter deep canyon that can be seen from the road that connects Cuiabá to Chapada (MT-251). It is possible to see the Cidade de Pedra from there.
