Chapada dos Guimaraes

Brazil

A classic self-drive from Cuiabá into the sandstone tablelands of Chapada dos Guimarães, where the road climbs from Mato Grosso’s heat into escarpments, waterfalls, and wide cerrado views. Base yourself in the park area and explore the rim, caves, and lookouts along short paved drives.

Stops along the route

Departure

Cuiabá

Start in Mato Grosso’s hot capital, where the road leaves the plains for the Chapada escarpment.

Arrival

Várzea Grande

Return toward the Cuiabá airport gateway in Várzea Grande. It is the practical end point for the loop.

Things to Do

Landmark

Mirante do Centro Geodésico

A quick scenic stop by the geographic center of South America. Wide savanna views open around the ridge.

Nature

Portão do Inferno

Drive past a dramatic canyon cut where red cliffs squeeze the road. It is one of the route’s classic photo pulls.

Landmark

Mirante do Véu de Noiva

Look down to the famous waterfall dropping through the sandstone walls. The viewpoint gives a clean, postcard angle.

Nature

Chapada dos Guimarães National Park

Base yourself near the park for short drives, trails, and canyon scenery. The high plateau feels cooler and greener.

Landmark

Caverna Aroe Jari

Explore a long sandstone cave with striking shapes and shafts of light. Nearby crystal pools add to the stop.

Nature

Cidade de Pedra

See a surreal maze of eroded rock towers and walls. Sunset here brings out the warm colors of the stone.

Landmark

Mirante do Morro dos Ventos

Finish with a broad lookout over the plateau and valleys. It is an easy final sweep before heading back.

scenic drive

Portão do Inferno viewpoint drive

Drive the cliff-lined stretch and stop for photos where the road cuts through the escarpment. The rock walls are the route’s signature scene.

waterfall viewpoint

Véu de Noiva waterfall lookout

Walk to the main viewpoint for one of Chapada’s best-known falls. The drop is especially dramatic in the dry season light.

cave

Aroe Jari cave and crystal basin

Tour the cave passages and nearby natural pools for a mix of geology and cool shade. It is a classic half-day outing.

hiking

Cidade de Pedra trail

Explore the eroded sandstone formations on a short scenic walk. The landscape feels like a ruined city made of stone.

Where to Eat

Brazilian, fish

Peixaria Tarumã

A strong local choice for pantaneiro-style fish and regional sides. Good for a hearty meal on the Cuiabá side of the drive.

Brazilian

Restaurante Morro dos Ventos

A convenient stop near the viewpoints with simple regional plates. Great for lunch between lookout visits.

Brazilian

Restaurante Popular Chapada

Casual town option for almoço with rice, beans, and grilled meats. Handy before or after park driving.

Street food, market

Feira do Porto

Cuiabá market eating with grilled snacks, juice, and regional bites. Best for an easy breakfast or early snack.