Jalapão: Immersion in the beauties of the Cerrado with authentic Quilombola experiences
An 8-day expedition that connects exuberant landscapes, ancestral history, and living culture in the Quilombola communities of Tocantins
Between the golden cerrado and the crystal-clear fervedouros (natural springs), Jalapão reveals itself as one of Brazil’s most striking destinations. Not only for the breathtaking beauty of its nature but for the soul that pulses in every corner of this territory. The region covers 34,000 km² and preserves the largest continuous stretch of the Cerrado biome, considered one of the planet’s biodiversity hotspots. Twisted trees with thick bark, flowers bursting with color after the first rains, and porous soil that filters and stores water reveal the Cerrado’s great ecological treasures.
Walking through Jalapão is like hearing an ancestral song, where every tree, every stone, and every breeze tells a story. This is a region where culture and nature walk hand in hand, and Quilombola communities are among its greatest treasures. They are guardians of memory, struggle, and poetry of a people who resist with knowledge passed down through generations. The golden grass handicraft and the unique melody of the buriti viola are more than traditions: they are declarations of belonging and love for the land.
Living an 8-day expedition through Jalapão unveils the vast golden dunes, the lightness of waters in the fervedouros and waterfalls, and the power of encounters with the communities. It is a journey that touches deeply, welcomes, and teaches. Get ready!
8 DAYS OF IMMERSION IN JALAPÃO
More than just visiting Jalapão, this is a rare opportunity to feel its roots, rhythms, and poetry pulsing in every detail. Your journey begins on the first day with a transfer from Palmas airport to the hotel. Take time to explore the main points of the Tocantins capital, such as Praça dos Girassóis and the Serra do Lajeado viewpoint. For dinner, try the local cuisine at restaurants specializing in dishes with typical cerrado ingredients.
On the second day, the expedition starts at 8 a.m. heading to the Taquaruçu district. The first attractions are the Escorrega Macaco and Roncadeira Waterfalls, with 70 meters of cascading water and great spots for swimming. Lunch will be at a local restaurant, followed by a visit to Evilson Waterfall, one of the region’s most famous. The day ends with a cultural experience at Dona Maria de Jesus’s house, where you will learn traditional techniques for breaking babaçu coconuts. While she shares her story, you can taste typical cuscuz with fried egg in coconut oil, accompanied by coffee.
TIP: Adventurers can try rappelling down Escorrega Macaco and Roncadeira waterfalls or experience the largest zipline in the North region, with 1,300 meters in length.
On the third day, the journey begins early toward Ponte Alta, the Gateway to Jalapão. The first stop is the famous Morro da Pedra Furada, a geological formation offering stunning Cerrado views. After lunch with regional dishes, it’s time to visit Lagoa do Japonês, a paradise spot with crystal-clear waters in emerald and bluish-green shades. You can enjoy the 250-meter zipline that crosses the lagoon, offering amazing views. The sunset marks the end of the day’s activities.
The fourth day is marked by the journey from the Portal of Jalapão to the Heart of Jalapão, with a total of 190 km of dirt road. On the way, a stop at the Sussuapara Canyon, whose natural tunnels create a unique environment. Lunch will be at the Quilombola Community of Rio Novo. After a few minutes of rest in the restaurant’s hammock area, you will take part in the traditional preparation of paçoca made with dried meat while learning about the importance of this traditional food. There will still be time to visit a beautiful little beach with drinkable water.
The expedition continues, passing by the Serra do Espírito Santo and the Morro do Saca-trapo, until reaching the stunning Jalapão Dunes, to contemplate the sunset over the golden sands. A moment that will forever remain in your memory! Next, a stop in Mateiros to taste jalapa immersed in cachaça.
The fifth day is dedicated to the famous fervedouro. But before that, a stop at the Buritis Waterfall with a gentle drop and a space to relax in the crystal-clear waters of the Formiga River. The first fervedouro of the day will be Ceiça’s, followed by Buritizinho and the Meeting of the Waters – where you will also see the meeting point of the Formiga and Soninho Rivers. Lunch will be at the Quilombola Community of Mumbuca, birthplace of the golden grass handicraft. You will take part in the Golden Grass Experience and the Buriti Viola Experience, a true cultural show for visitors.
The sixth day begins early with a pre-dawn hike, which can be either to Serra do Espírito Santo (a medium/difficult trail with 750m ascent plus 3 km of flat walk) or to Morro do Jacurutu (an easy trail with a light 500m ascent). The reward is a breathtaking sunrise. After breakfast, the first stop is the Formiga Waterfall, considered the most beautiful in Jalapão, where you’ll have time for a refreshing swim. Then, the Macaúbas fervedouro will provide a unique sensation among the region’s fervedouros. Enjoy!
Lunch will be at the Quilombola Community of Prata, where you’ll have the opportunity to learn about local culture in a chat with Mr. Salomão and Mrs. Maria, a local couple with tremendous charm and vast knowledge. The day ends at the Bela Vista fervedouro, the largest in the region.
The farewell to Jalapão takes place on the seventh day of the expedition. Right after breakfast, you’ll visit the Alecrim fervedouro and then the Arara Waterfall. After lunch, the return to Palmas begins. On the way, a stop at Morro da Catedral to admire the view and take photos. And by late afternoon, you’re in Palmas.
TIP: Adventurers can leave a little earlier to go rafting on the Soninho River, with 2 hours of descent and beautiful landscapes. The activity does not interfere with the day’s program!
The eighth day is your farewell to Tocantins. You will take with you not only material memories, but unique experiences from one of the most fascinating regions of Brazil.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Throughout the expedition, you will stay in cozy accommodations, enjoy meals highlighting local ingredients, and travel by 4x4 vehicles. Tourism guides and environmental drivers are natives of Tocantins, ensuring a genuine experience. Bring sunglasses, snorkeling goggles, sunscreen, insect repellent, a light jacket for cooler nights, hat or cap, comfortable footwear, light clothes, and swimwear.
This is a true initiation into Jalapão’s secrets. You will return with feet marked by golden earth, hands skilled in ancestral techniques, and a heart full of stories beyond any written account. Arrive as a visitor, leave as part of the story!
HOW TO GET THERE
Palmas International Airport – Brigadeiro Lysias Rodrigues