Chapada dos Guimaraes National Park

Chapada dos Guimarães National Park is located on the western side of central Brazil.  It is approximately the center point for the entire South American continent. The national park encompasses an area of 125.4 square miles (326.18 sq km). 

Guimarães is known for its inspiring waterfalls and picturesque cliffs found throughout the rugged landscapes of the park.  As part of the larger Pantanal Biosphere Reserve, it is neighbors with Emas National Park, Pantanal Matogrossense National Park, and Serra da Bodoquena National Park.

Some would describe the park as similar to the American Southwest with breathtaking rugged red-rock formations, dramatic cliffs, striking waterfalls, and mesmerizing canyons.

The striking red-sandstone cliffs vary in elevation ranging from 2,000 to 2,600 feet (600 to 800m).  The Guimarães plateau serves as the foundation of the park and it acts as a transitional divide between the Paraguay and Amazon river basins.  Although dry and scrubby vegetation accounts for the majority of vegetation, there are forests and plains that serve as part of the varied habitats.  This varied vegetation and higher elevations of the Pantanal ecosystem support an abundance of wildlife. 

Some of the more popular exotic species include the maned wolf, the giant anteater, the tapir, and the jaguar.  Other species of wildlife include pampas deer, giant armadillo, seriema, greater rhea, and the howler monkey.  Bird lovers will appreciate seeing the red macaws, tropical screech-owl, and scissor-tailed nightjar, along with various parrots, and swifts.

There are over 40 archaeological sites that include cave paintings, fossils, and other remnants of history,  These historical elements add to the natural beauty of the park.

Photos

Chapada dos Guimaraes National Park Photo Gallery

Highlights

The dramatic landscapes feature spectacular sandstone cliffs, rugged terrains, and stunning waterfalls that serve as the highlight of the national park.  Hiking amongst the cliffs and picturesque terrain often leave travelers speechless.

Waterfalls

Along with the rugged terrain and sandstone cliffs, waterfalls enhance the natural aesthetics of the terrain.  There are over a dozen waterfalls found throughout the park.  Bridal Veil Falls, locally known as Véu de Noiva, is recognized as the most stunning.  It features a plunge of 295 feet (90 m).

The hike to the Bridal Veil Falls is fairly short and easily accessible.  For the more adventurous, they can turn the hike into an all-day trek with an opportunity to see 7 different waterfalls.

Landscapes and Vista

There are a variety of landscapes that offer unique rock formations and picturesque cliffs and rugged terrain.  One of the most coveted vista lookouts occurs at Morro dos Ventos.  This provides a panoramic view of the valley, Pantanal wetlands, and the city of Cuibá.

Cidade de Pedra and Vale do Rio Claro are two different rugged and picturesque terrains that offer unique views.  Hiking around each is available with permits.

Things To Do:

Driving through the park and hiking the various trails are the most commonly engaged activities of the park.

Chapada dos Guimaraes National Park Trails

Park Protection

Chapada dos Guimarães National Park was created to protect part of the larger Pantanal ecosystem along with the headwaters of the Cuiaba River which is a primary feeder of the Mato Grosso Pantanal.  The national park also protects the abundance of wildlife that live in the varied habitats of the Pantanal.