The park harbors an impressive array of wildlife, including several endangered species. Notable residents include the jaguar, maned wolf, giant anteater, and pampas deer. The area is also a birdwatcher's paradise, home to over 300 bird species including the rare Brazilian merganser and the cock-of-the-rock. Numerous endemic species of reptiles, amphibians, and insects contribute to the park's remarkable biodiversity.
The park showcases the rich biodiversity of the Cerrado, Brazil's vast tropical savanna ecosystem. Over 1,600 plant species thrive here, with many endemic to the region. Visitors can observe distinctive adaptations to fire and drought, including twisted trees, thick bark, and deep root systems. The landscape varies from gallery forests along waterways to open grasslands, featuring iconic species like the pequi tree, canela-de-ema, and various orchids and bromeliads.
Formed over 1.8 billion years ago, the park's terrain features some of South America's oldest rock formations. The landscape was shaped by intense tectonic activity and erosion, creating dramatic quartz crystal formations, canyons, and plateaus. The region is famous for its high concentration of quartz crystals and other minerals, which some believe generate mystical energy. The crystalline rocks reflect sunlight spectacularly, earning the area the nickname 'Valley of the Moon.'
The region's name 'Veadeiros' comes from the hunting dogs once used to track deer in the area. Originally inhabited by indigenous peoples, the area gained prominence during Brazil's 18th-century gold rush. In 1961, it was designated as a national park to protect its unique landscapes and biodiversity. UNESCO recognized it as a World Heritage site in 2001 for its exceptional natural beauty and ancient geological formations. The park's boundaries were expanded in 2017 to cover 240,611 hectares.
The park's most spectacular attractions include the 120-meter Vale da Lua (Moon Valley), known for its otherworldly rock formations, and numerous pristine waterfalls such as the 120-meter Salto do Rio Preto, the park's highest. The Cariocas and Santa Barbara falls offer popular swimming spots. Ancient trails used by indigenous peoples and gold miners now serve as hiking routes, offering panoramic views of the Cerrado landscape. The park is also known for its dark sky, making it an excellent location for stargazing.
Chapada dos Veadeiros experiences a tropical savanna climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The rainy season runs from October to April, bringing afternoon thunderstorms and vibrant waterfalls, while the dry season (May to September) offers clear skies and mild temperatures. Average temperatures range from 24-26°C (75-79°F), though nights can be cool. The high altitude (800-1,650m) moderates the heat, making hiking comfortable year-round, though visitors should always carry water and sun protection.
Brazil
-14.0500°, -47.6830°
1961
2400
Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park is famous for its ancient rock formations and crystal-clear waterfalls. The park protects vast areas of cerrado vegetation and numerous endemic species. It features some of the oldest rock formations in South America and is known for its quartz crystal deposits.