Chapada Dimantina

Since the first diamond was discovered in 1844, the Chapada hasn’t stopped receiving visitors from all over the world.

Routes opened by the ‘garimpeiros’ (gold and diamond hunters) uncovered the region of springs from the River Paragiaçu, that contains numerous powerful rivers, waterfalls and pools of crystal water.

The entire region is like a huge mountainous wall that separates the valley of São Francisco, to the West, from the land that stretches to the coast, in the East. Within its 70.548 km2, can be found high plains and deep valleys with an altitude that varies from -70m in some caves, to 2033m at  Pico do Barbado, the highest point in North East Brazil. This region contains the National Park of Chapada Diamantina and other such state parks, which contain and protect a natural heritage with an incredibly rich biodiversity that is at least partially unknown.

Thanks to the good tourist infrastructure of hotels, restaurants, ease of access and pleasant year round climate, the region is much sought after by those looking for simple leisure and relaxation in a beautiful place with adventure tourism and extreme sports.

Fist day

• Six hour transfer to Andaraí, situated in the Chapada Diamantina National Park.
• After arriving at Andaraí, trek to the Paty valley, climbing the Ladder of the Empire, an ancient trail used by the diamond hunters,  known as the Diamond route.
• Relax.
• Descend the trail into the Paty valley to the rustic guest house in the home of Mr. Eduardo, an 80 year old native, who is full of life and the patriarch of a family which offers services to travelers, with camping, rooms to rent, a kitchen and collective bathrooms. Mr. Eduardo was one of the two main creators of the trails in the Chapada Diamantina.

Second day

• Typical local breakfast.
• Trek to the town hall, an ancient building where the council of Andaraí was held during the coffee era, now a visitors’ centre, with rooms, shared bathrooms, kitchen and a small shop. Relax.
• Leave for the Poço da Árvore, a large natural pool that was formed by the pressure of the water from the waterfall.
• Return to the house of Mr. Eduardo.

Third day

• Breakfast.
• Leave Mr Eduardo´s house. Arrive at Andaraí. Leave for Lençois. Have lunch. Panoramic city tour of Lençóis to visit the old commercial warehouses, that show the architecture of the city and attest to the past glory of the region  during the diamond rush.
• Return to the hotel.

What to bring: Sun glasses, hat, sun cream, insect repellent, swimming costume, walking shoes, sandals, torch, waterproof jacket, water…

Included: Transfers, lodging (2 nights with breakfast included) guide.

Not included: Telephone calls, meals and any other services not specified as included.

Important!

• All eco-tourism activities depend on the conditions at the time. Consequently, some changes to the program may be necessary.
• The price may change in case of changes to the local economy.
• Cancellations and reimbursement, according to EMBRATUR: 90% up to 31 days before the start of the trip; 80% from 21-30 days before the start of the trip; 0 to 80%, less than 20 days before the start of the trip.