South America
Jalapão Circuit
Brazil
Distance
1,200 km
Duration
7-10 days
Best Season
May-September
The Jalapão Circuit is a classic cerrado road trip through eastern Tocantins, linking Palmas with sand tracks, orange dunes, blue springs, and river beaches around Mateiros, São Félix do Tocantins, and Ponte Alta do Tocantins. It is remote, scenic, and best tackled at a slow pace.
~2 refuels
~4 charges
Practical notes
Roads in Jalapão are long, sandy, and often corrugated; a high-clearance 4WD is strongly recommended, especially after rain. Fuel and services are sparse between towns, so carry water, cash, and extra time for slow sections.
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Stops along the route
Departure
Palmas
Modern capital on the edge of the cerrado, with lakeside views and last-minute supplies. Start here before the long sandy drive east.
City
Ponte Alta do Tocantins
Gateway town to Jalapão with simple inns, fuel, and dust-coated streets. It is the usual staging point before the tracks begin.
City
Taquaruçu do Porto
Small district near Palmas known for waterfalls, mountain air, and good roadside stops. It makes an easy final break before returning to the capital.
Arrival
Palmas
Back to the capital after the loop through sand, springs, and river beaches. Refuel, restock, and leave the dust of Jalapão behind.
Things to Do
Nature
Cachoeira da Velha
A broad, thundering waterfall on the Novo River surrounded by cerrado. The spray and rocky viewpoints make it one of Jalapão's signature stops.
Nature
Dunas do Jalapão
Golden dunes rise out of the bush like a desert in the tropics. Sunset turns the sand orange and the views stretch across the plain.
Nature
Fervedouro Bela Vista
A clear spring where you float effortlessly in strong upwelling water. The small pool glows blue-green and feels surreal in the dry landscape.
Landmark
Morro da Catedral
A dramatic rock formation near Mateiros that rises like a natural cathedral. It is a scenic stop for photos and a quick stretch off the tracks.
Nature
Fervedouro Buritizinho
Another crystal spring with the signature floating effect of Jalapão. The buriti palms and clear water give it a quiet, hidden feel.
Nature
Prainha do Rio Novo
A sandy river beach on the Novo River with calm water and a relaxed camp vibe. It is one of the best places to cool off after the dusty roads.
Waterfall
Cachoeira da Velha
Walk the viewpoints for wide views of the Novo River waterfall. The powerful flow and surrounding cerrado make it a top Jalapão highlight.
Scenic landscape
Dunas do Jalapão
Climb the dunes for sunset and panoramic views over the scrubland. The shifting sand and warm colors are classic Jalapão.
Natural spring
Fervedouro Bela Vista
Float in the spring's strong upwelling water and enjoy the crystal clarity. It is one of the region's most distinctive experiences.
Natural spring
Fervedouro Buritizinho
Visit another famous floating spring near São Félix do Tocantins. The small pool and buriti palms create a quiet, photogenic stop.
River beach
Prainha do Rio Novo
Swim, relax, and picnic on the sandy bank of the Novo River. It is a great low-key break between off-road sections.
Where to Eat
Brazilian, regional
Frutos do Cerrado
A good stop in Palmas for açai, juices, and cerrado fruit desserts. Useful for a fresh meal before or after the circuit.
Brazilian, barbecue
Churrascaria e Lanchonete Portal do Jalapão
A practical road stop in Ponte Alta do Tocantins for grilled meat and quick plates. It is a common refuel stop on the way into Jalapão.
Brazilian, homemade
Restaurante da Nega
A likely local lunch spot in Mateiros serving simple, hearty regional meals. Good for rice, beans, fish, and cold drinks after dusty roads.
Brazilian, regional
Restaurante Aconchego do Jalapão
A casual spot in São Félix do Tocantins with traveler-friendly meals. Expect straightforward food that works well between spring visits.
Bakery, snacks
Panificadora e Lanchonete Pão de Queijo
A useful bakery stop for coffee, pão de queijo, and road snacks in Palmas. Ideal for stocking up before the remote sections.