Ecotourism in Chapada dos Veadeiros
Chapada dos Veadeiros is a benchmark for cerrado ecotourism. The National Park protects Rio Preto headwaters, quartzite canyons and species like maned wolf and cougar. Trails require guides, ICMBio rules and environmental awareness.
National Park trails
Janela lookout, Rio Preto falls and Canyons/Cariocas are the most popular routes. Controlled access, set schedules and drone bans in some areas.
Frequently asked questions
What is ecotourism in Chapada dos Veadeiros?
Nature tourism with minimal impact: guided trails, environmental education, respect for cerrado wildlife and support for the local economy of São Jorge and Alto Paraíso.
Explore in this guide
- Mirante da Janela e Cachoeira do AbismoInside the National Park — one of Brazil's most famous lookouts.
- Parque Nacional — Saltos do Rio PretoLong trail to the big falls — plan ahead and follow ICMBio rules.
- Parque Nacional — Cânions e CariocasStunning geology — river sections safest with a guided group.
- Cougar attack in Chapada dos Veadeiros: what happened and how to act when you encounter a cougar on the trailMay 2026 incident near Cordovil, resting vs. camouflage behavior, guide advice and rare predation vs. coexistence tips for trails.
- Why hire a licensed local guide in Chapada dos Veadeiros?Safety, smarter timing, standout photos and routes only locals truly master — with official Cadastur credentials.
- Cachoeira do SegredoA São Jorge postcard — deep pools and preserved cerrado views.
- Vale da LuaQuartzite sculpted by time — a one-of-a-kind setting in São Jorge.