Things To Do
in Cavalcante

Cavalcante is a charming town located in the heart of Brazil's Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park, known for its stunning natural landscapes and rich biodiversity. It serves as a gateway for eco-tourism, attracting visitors seeking adventure, tranquility, and beautiful scenery. The town boasts a vibrant local culture, influenced by both indigenous traditions and modern Brazilian life.

With warm hospitality from its residents, Cavalcante is an ideal destination for those looking to immerse themselves in nature and local culture.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Nature
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the stunning Cachoeira Santa Bárbara, a waterfall known for its crystal-clear blue waters. Take a refreshing swim or enjoy a picnic surrounded by nature.

afternoon
:

After lunch, head to the nearby Parque Nacional da Chapada dos Veadeiros for hiking along the beautiful trails and exploring the diverse flora and fauna.

evening
:

Enjoy a traditional Brazilian dinner at a local restaurant, sampling regional dishes while listening to live music or watching a cultural performance.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Visit the local artisan market to buy handmade crafts and souvenirs, interacting with local artists and learning about their work.

afternoon
:

Take a guided tour to the Quilombola community, where you can learn about the history and culture of the Afro-Brazilian descendants and their traditional practices.

evening
:

Wrap up your visit with a sunset view over the valleys, followed by dinner at a cozy café that specializes in regional cuisine.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$10-$20
Coffee$1.50
🚕Taxi Ride$5
🏨Hotel Night$40-$100
🛍️Souvenir$5-$30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural beauty and diverse landscapes.
  • Rich local culture and friendly inhabitants.
  • Excellent opportunities for outdoor activities and adventure.
  • Limited nightlife options may not suit everyone.
  • Some areas may be remote and harder to access.
  • Language barrier for non-Portuguese speakers.
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you (male/female)
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Desculpe" - Sorry
  • "Onde fica...?" - Where is...?

Places to Visit in Cavalcante

Visit one of these nice places.

Cachoeira Santa Bárbara

This stunning waterfall is renowned for its turquoise waters and lush surroundings, making it a perfect spot for breathtaking photographs.

Mirante da Janela

A panoramic viewpoint that offers spectacular views of the Chapada dos Veadeiros landscape, ideal for sunset shots.

Vale da Lua

Known for its lunar-like rock formations and unique scenery, this site is perfect for creative photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Cavalcante

Cavalcante's culinary scene is a delightful mix of traditional Brazilian flavors and local specialties, making it a must-visit for food lovers.

Cavalcante Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Arroz com Pequi

A traditional dish made with rice and pequi fruit, known for its unique flavor and nutritional value.

Must-Try!

Galinhada

A chicken and rice dish cooked with spices and often accompanied by fresh vegetables.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Feira de Artesanato

A local artisan market where you can find handmade crafts and enjoy snacks from street vendors, including tapioca and coxinhas.

Climate Guide

Weather

Cavalcante has a tropical savanna climate, characterized by a wet season from October to March and a dry season from April to September. Temperatures can soar during the day, averaging around 30°C (86°F), while evenings are cooler. Rainfall mainly occurs in the summer months, making it lush and vibrant, but be prepared for occasional thunderstorms.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake is common, and it is polite to greet people with 'Bom dia' (Good morning) or 'Boa tarde' (Good afternoon).

Dress Code

Casual and comfortable clothing is acceptable, especially for outdoor activities, but dress modestly when visiting local communities.

Respect for Nature

Always respect the environment by not littering and following local guidelines for conservation.

Safety Guide

Safety

Cavalcante is generally a safe destination for tourists, but it's important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night, keep valuables secure, and be aware of your surroundings, especially in secluded areas.

Tipping in Cavalcante

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a 10% tip at restaurants; however, check if the service charge is already included in the bill.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s advisable to carry cash, especially for small purchases and in local markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (December to February)

Expect warm temperatures and occasional rain, making it a great time for swimming in waterfalls.

Autumn (March to May)

Milder temperatures and less rainfall provide ideal hiking conditions and clearer skies for photography.

Winter (June to August)

Cooler temperatures can make mornings chilly, but it's a great time for exploring without the heat.

Spring (September to November)

A perfect time to visit with blooming flowers and moderate temperatures, ideal for outdoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Cavalcante at Night

Cavalcante's nightlife is relatively low-key, with a few bars and restaurants offering live music and entertainment. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, providing a chance to mingle with locals and fellow travelers. In addition, occasional cultural events and festivals may take place, showcasing traditional music and dance.

Hiking in Cavalcante

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Caminho dos Cânions

A picturesque trail that offers views of stunning canyons and unique rock formations, suitable for intermediate hikers.

Trilha do Potreiro

This trail leads to breathtaking waterfalls and is ideal for those looking for a refreshing swim after a hike.

Airports

How to reach Cavalcante by plane.

Alto Paraíso de Goiás Airport (Aeroporto de Alto Paraíso)

Located approximately 70 km from Cavalcante, this airport offers limited flights, primarily serving regional destinations. Travelers often use it as a convenient entry point to the Chapada dos Veadeiros region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Cavalcante is a small and walkable town, with many attractions, markets, and restaurants located within walking distance. However, for reaching more remote areas like waterfalls and hiking trails, transportation may be needed.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Indigenous Communities

Cavalcante is home to indigenous groups who contribute to the local culture and traditions, offering unique insights into their way of life.

Quilombola Descendants

Descendants of escaped slaves, these communities maintain distinct cultural practices and often engage in artisanal crafts.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is immensely popular among locals, with many playing and watching games in the community.

Hiking

Given the abundant natural trails, hiking is a favored activity for both residents and visitors alike.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Cavalcante is generally light due to its small size, but be cautious of dirt roads when traveling to natural attractions. Public transportation options are limited, so renting a vehicle or hiring a local guide is recommended for exploring the surrounding areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Cavalcante.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's always good to confirm with the staff.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are limited, but fresh fruits, vegetables, and local dishes can be suitable.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Cavalcante is basic, with a small clinic available for minor ailments. For serious medical issues, it is advisable to travel to larger cities like Alto Paraíso de Goiás or Brasília, where better healthcare facilities are available.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide