Destination Facts

• Official Name: Vale da Lua (part of Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park)
• Type of Destination: Region (geological formation within a national park)
• Brief Description: A surreal landscape of sculpted quartzite rock formations, carved by the São Miguel River, resembling the surface of the moon.
• Location: Within Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park, Alto Paraíso de Goiás municipality, Goiás state, Central-Western Brazil.
• Year Established/Founded: Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park was established in 1961; Vale da Lua is a natural formation within it.
• Governing Body/Management: Instituto Chico Mendes de Conservação da Biodiversidade (ICMBio), Brazil’s federal conservation agency.
• Significance/Known For: Unique lunar-like rock formations, crystal-clear natural pools, and part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site (Cerrado Protected Areas).
• Size/Area: Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park covers approximately 240,000 hectares; Vale da Lua is a smaller section within it.
• Main Attractions/Key Features:
  • Smooth, wave-like rock formations with natural whirlpools.
  • Pristine swimming holes with turquoise waters.
  • Surrounding Cerrado savanna biodiversity.
• Best Time to Visit: Dry season (May to September) for clearer water and easier access.
• Entrance Fee/Ticket Info: Yes, fees apply for Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park; guided tours may be required for Vale da Lua.
• Operating Hours: Park gates typically open 8:00 AM–6:00 PM; access may vary by season.
• Website: ICMBio Chapada dos Veadeiros

Essentials

• Top Attractions: Vale da Lua in Alto Paraíso, Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park, Vale da Lua in Chapada dos Veadeiros
• Best Months to Visit: December, February, January, November

Tours and Day Trips

Popular Tours & Day Trips from Vale da Lua

1. Vale da Lua Exploration

Just a short walk from the main access point, the Vale da Lua (Moon Valley) is a surreal landscape of sculpted rock formations carved by the São Miguel River over millennia. Visitors can wade through shallow pools, admire the lunar-like grooves, and bask in the otherworldly ambiance. Ideal for nature lovers and photographers, this self-guided excursion takes about 2–3 hours.

2. Cachoeira Santa Bárbara

Approximately 25 km from Vale da Lua, the Cachoeira Santa Bárbara is one of Chapada dos Veadeiros' most stunning waterfalls, with turquoise waters cascading into a serene pool. The hike through cerrado vegetation adds to the allure. This half-day trip is perfect for swimmers and those seeking tranquility, though the trail may require moderate fitness.

3. Almécegas I & II Waterfalls

Nestled within a private reserve near São Jorge, the twin waterfalls of Almécegas I & II offer refreshing dips and panoramic views. The taller Almécegas II includes a thrilling rappelling option for adventure seekers. Located about 30 km from Vale da Lua, this excursion suits families and thrill-seekers alike, with visits lasting 4–5 hours.

4. Jardim de Maytrea

A mystical site believed to hold spiritual energy, the Jardim de Maytrea features quartz-rich trails and sweeping vistas of the chapada. The gentle hike (1–2 hours) is ideal for meditation or quiet reflection, just 15 km from Vale da Lua. Those drawn to esoteric lore or serene landscapes will find it particularly rewarding.

5. Raizama Waterfall Circuit

For a full-day immersion in Chapada’s aquatic wonders, the Raizama Circuit combines several waterfalls, natural slides, and hidden pools. The 8 km round-trip hike traverses lush forests and rocky paths, best suited for active travelers. The circuit begins roughly 20 km from Vale da Lua.

When to visit

Best Time to Visit Vale da Lua in Chapada dos Veadeiros

Seasonal Breakdown

Vale da Lua, nestled in the heart of Brazil's Chapada dos Veadeiros, experiences a tropical savanna climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The region's dramatic landscapes—carved by millennia of water erosion—are best appreciated under specific seasonal conditions.

Dry Season (May to September)

Weather: Days are warm (20–30°C / 68–86°F) with cool nights (10–15°C / 50–59°F). Rainfall is minimal, and skies are clear, offering excellent visibility for hiking and photography.

• Pros: Ideal for exploring trails and swimming in the rock pools. Lower humidity and fewer mosquitoes enhance comfort.
• Cons: Some waterfalls may have reduced flow. Cooler evenings require light layers.
• Events: June brings traditional Festa Junina celebrations in nearby towns, with folk music and local cuisine.

Wet Season (October to April)

Weather: Temperatures rise (25–35°C / 77–95°F), with frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Humidity is high, and vegetation thrives, creating lush scenery.

• Pros: Waterfalls and rivers are at their most spectacular. Fewer tourists mean quieter trails.
• Cons: Trails can be slippery, and some areas may flood, limiting access. Heavy rains occasionally close attractions temporarily.
• Events: The New Year and Carnival (February/March) draw larger crowds to Brazil, though Vale da Lua remains relatively serene.

Overall Recommendation

The dry season (May–September) is optimal for most visitors, balancing pleasant weather and accessibility. For those seeking dramatic waterfalls and solitude, the early wet season (October–November) offers a compelling alternative. Avoid peak holiday periods like December and January if crowds are a concern.

Considerations

July and August are popular among Brazilian tourists, leading to higher prices and busier trails. Weekdays outside these months provide a more tranquil experience. Note that some pousadas and restaurants reduce hours during the low season (February–April).

What to pack

What to Pack for Vale da Lua in Chapada dos Veadeiros

Vale da Lua, with its lunar-like rock formations and river-carved pools, demands practical yet thoughtful packing. The region’s tropical savanna climate, rugged terrain, and emphasis on outdoor exploration call for lightweight, durable essentials.

For the Terrain & Activities

• Sturdy Water Shoes or Sandals: The rocky riverbeds and slippery surfaces make grippy, quick-drying footwear indispensable for navigating the pools and trails.
• Quick-Dry Clothing: Lightweight, breathable fabrics that dry rapidly are ideal for swimming and hiking in the humid climate.
• Small Backpack with Dry Bag: Protect essentials like phones and snacks from splashes during river crossings or sudden rain showers.

For the Climate

• High-SPF Sunscreen & Wide-Brimmed Hat: The intense equatorial sun reflects off the quartz-rich rocks, requiring robust sun protection.
• Reusable Water Bottle with Filter: Staying hydrated is critical; some trails lack potable water sources.
• Light Rain Jacket: Sudden afternoon rains are common, especially during the wet season (October–March).

Extras for Comfort

• Biodegradable Insect Repellent: Mosquitoes can be persistent near water sources; opt for eco-friendly formulas to protect the delicate ecosystem.
• Compact Microfiber Towel: Useful for drying off after swims without adding bulk to your pack.

Culture

A Landscape Shaped by Time and Myth

Vale da Lua, or "Moon Valley," is a geological wonder in Chapada dos Veadeiros where the São Miguel River has sculpted lunar-like rock formations over millennia. The local culture is deeply intertwined with this surreal landscape, where indigenous and mystical beliefs converge. The region is often referred to as the "heart of Brazil" by spiritual seekers, drawn by its quartz-rich terrain and energy vortexes said to amplify healing and introspection.

Indigenous Roots and Ceremonial Practices

The area is historically linked to the Kayapó and other indigenous groups, whose presence lingers in place names and oral traditions. Visitors may encounter small-scale ceremonies led by local pajés (shamans), who perform rituals using herbs like jurema and ayahuasca, though these are private and require respectful distance. The nearby village of São Jorge occasionally hosts workshops on indigenous crafts, such as feather art and ceramic pottery, preserving ancestral techniques.

The Bohemian Pulse of São Jorge

The nearest settlement, São Jorge, is a haven for artists and healers who migrated here in the 1970s, creating a distinct countercultural atmosphere. Its dirt streets are lined with:

• Handmade jewelry stalls featuring local stones like quartz and amethyst
• Cafés serving cachaça infused with cerrado fruits like pequi and cagaita
• Open-air forró circles where musicians improvise with viola caipira (Brazilian folk guitar)

Cuisine of the Cerrado

The sparse local gastronomy reflects the harsh beauty of the cerrado biome. Restaurants in São Jorge offer:

• Empadão goiano – A savory pie with game meat and regional herbs
• Pequi rice – Prepared with the fragrant, saffron-like fruit (caution: its spines require careful eating)
• Honey from native bees – Often sold at roadside stands with distinct floral notes from ipê blossoms

Visitor Etiquette

The valley’s fragile ecosystem demands reverence:

• Swimming is permitted only in designated areas to protect rock formations
• Photography of private rituals is strictly taboo
• Low-impact hiking (no marked trails) requires local guides – often descendants of early settlers

History

History of Vale da Lua

Vale da Lua, or "Moon Valley," is a striking geological formation nestled within the Chapada dos Veadeiros region of Goiás, Brazil. Its history is one shaped by the slow, relentless work of water and time rather than human hands. The São Miguel River has carved intricate grooves and hollows into the quartzite rock over millions of years, creating a surreal landscape that resembles the surface of the moon—hence its evocative name. While the area has been inhabited by Indigenous peoples for centuries, including the Avá-Canoeiro and Kayapó, Vale da Lua itself remained largely untouched until the 20th century, when explorers and later ecotourists began to discover its otherworldly beauty.

Key Historical Dates

• Pre-20th Century: The region was traditionally inhabited by Indigenous groups, who revered Chapada dos Veadeiros for its spiritual significance and natural resources.
• 1961: Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park was established, bringing formal protection to parts of the region, though Vale da Lua itself lies just outside its boundaries.
• 1980s–1990s: The rise of ecotourism in Brazil drew attention to Vale da Lua, as travelers sought out its unique geological formations and pristine waters.
• 2001: Chapada dos Veadeiros was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, further elevating the region's profile and encouraging sustainable tourism.