The capital city of Brasilia isn’t high on the priority list for many foreign travelers in Brazil. It’s quiet, organized, and focused around the political and judicial operations of the country.
This was President Kubitschek’s goal when he moved the capital from Rio de Janeiro to Brasilia in the 1950’s – to get away from all the distractions.
But what if you’re looking from some distractions and adventure?
In my opinion, along with the incredible architecture within the city, the best thing about Brasilia is its proximity to some of the most amazing national parks in the country. Many of which are completely unknown to foreigners.
I highly recommend renting a car in Brasilia and making a day trip to one of these beautiful hidden gems…
Note: Chapada is a Brazilian word that means a region of steep cliffs, usually at the edge of a plateau.
Parque Nacional de Brasilia
Driving Time: 10 Minutes
For those that just need a quick fresh air fix, Brasilia’s National Park is a short drive from the city center and the perfect place to spend a sunny day. It is 160 square miles of lush green space, featuring swimming reservoirs, nature trails and plenty of monkeys.
Go during the week and you’ll avoid the local weekend crowd.
Poço Azul
Driving Time: 35 Minutes
Poço Azul (or the Blue Pit) is located on a private estate within the Chapada da Contagem. It is a small park that has formed a beautiful landscape due to the streams and small tributaries coming from the Palm River Valley.
The featured attraction is Poço Azul, which is a large cavity approximately seven meters high and eight meters long, formed by the beautifully clear water over the years.
With waterfalls and hiking trails around the property, this place is perfect for a family picnic!
Pirenópolis
Driving Time: 2 Hours
The small Portuguese colonial town of Pirenópolis is not only a great place to visit, but it’s also the perfect hub for a weekend of outdoor exploration outside of Brasilia. It reminds me a lot of Paraty, because of it’s proximity to great waterfalls and nature hikes, but a lot less crowded.
Spend the weekend, get some sun and enjoy the tranquility.
Chapada dos Veadeiros
Driving Time: 2 Hours 45 Minutes
Now we’re getting into the absolutely breathtaking attractions that make this region impossible to miss. Based in the Brazilian state of Goias, Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park was created on January 11, 1961 by President Juscelino Kubitscheck, and listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2001.
With over 655 square kilometers and more waterfalls than I can count, Chapada dos Veadeiros is a must for any adventure-seeking nature lovers.
Here are four great natural excursions from Brasilia, but if you do want to stay in the city and explore, here are some great things to do in Brasilia…
8 Responses
Thanks for the useful guide! All the places look wonderful for a relaxing trip.
Looks amazing! I’d love to be by that waterfall…
Amazing guide, thanks for sharing! That waterfall is stunning, too. I love waterfalls to begin with, but I know a special one when I see it. Looks like a nice swim, too. Perhaps I will have to pay it a visit sometime in the future. You surely seemed to enjoy your visit!
I just found your instagram and website, absolutely wonderful pictures! Thank you for sharing
I often wondered if Brasilia was worth the trip… it seems like that’s a yes after these images. Thanks for educating. Stay adventurous, Craig
these pictures are just awesome. thanks for sharing
I love to get my swimmers on and take a dip! All of these spots look amazing, although Pirenópolis looks pretty crowded in that photo!
I’m a 16 y.o. brasilian girl in germany and I watch all your videos, I’m such a big fan. My dream is to do axactly the same thing you do. I love travelling and see new places. I hope one day, when I am old enough, I can do this like you too. You’re an inspiration for me and my example.