Alto Paraíso de Goiás, located in the Chapada dos Veadeiros region, has a rich and diverse history that dates back to pre-colonial times when it was inhabited by indigenous tribes such as the Cayapós, Xavantes, and Guayazes. In the 18th century, bandeirantes arrived in search of gold and slaves, sparking a mining cycle that led to the founding of Cavalcante in 1740. Alto Paraíso, initially known as Veadeiros, was merely a farm established by Francisco de Almeida, part of the Cavalcante municipality. The city gained prominence with historical figures such as the Cruls Commission, which measured the highest point of the Central Plateau, and the passage of the Prestes Column in 1926. In the 1950s, Esperanto brought a new esoteric phase to the region, with the founding of farm schools, attracting spiritual seekers and establishing the city as a center of mysticism. Alto Paraíso was emancipated in 1953 when the municipality broke away from Cavalcante. In 1963, it adopted its current name after a suggestion by a councilor inspired by his farm. In the 1980s, the state government launched the Paraíso Project, aiming to turn the city into a tourist hub, boosting the construction of the highway and local infrastructure development. Today, Alto Paraíso de Goiás is known for its rich history, cultural diversity, and lush nature, attracting tourists from around the world.
The culture of Alto Paraíso de Goiás is vibrant and diverse. Some cultural highlights include the Casa de Cultura Cavaleiro de Jorge, a space dedicated to promoting local arts and culture, with exhibitions and events. The Chapada dos Veadeiros Alternative Culture Center promotes sustainable culture and offers courses and workshops. The Feira do Alto is a market offering organic products, handicrafts, and natural foods, held on Saturday mornings. Arte Viva is an art gallery showcasing works by local and regional artists. The Festa do Divino is an annual event that celebrates religious and folkloric culture with processions, traditional dances, and local foods.
Alto Paraíso offers a variety of activities for all tastes, including hiking and waterfalls in the Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park, which has more than 300 stunning waterfalls and hundreds of trails for all levels. For those seeking spirituality, there are retreats and meditation, yoga, and healing ceremony spaces. Stargazing is a popular activity due to low light pollution. The town also offers rich local cuisine, with options for all palates. Don't miss strolling through the City Center, visiting craft shops, bookstores, and cafes. The charming Vila de São Jorge is a unique attraction.
Alto Paraíso de Goiás has several must-see tourist spots, such as the Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park, which offers trails, waterfalls, and impressive rock formations. The Loquinhas and Santa Bárbara waterfalls, with their crystal-clear waters, are perfect for relaxation. The Almécegas I and II waterfalls at Fazenda São Bento are ideal for swimming. The Catarata dos Couros, with its spectacular waterfalls, is also a highlight. The Vale da Lua, with its unique rock formations, and Jardim de Maytrea, with its stunning landscapes, are unmissable spots. There are also natural hot springs and the Mirante da Janela, with incredible views. The Vila de São Jorge offers easy access to these attractions.
The city has a vibrant calendar of events, such as the Chapada dos Veadeiros Winter Festival in July, which includes music, dance, theater, and art exhibitions. The Alternative and Shamanic Therapies Meeting offers workshops in healing and wellness practices. The Jazz and Blues Festival brings performances by national and international artists. The Holistic Meeting promotes lectures and activities focused on self-awareness. The Gastronomic Festival celebrates local cuisine with food trucks and tastings.
Alto Paraíso de Goiás has a tropical highland climate. The dry season, from May to September, brings sunny days with mild temperatures (25-30°C during the day and 10-15°C at night), with cooler nights in higher elevations. The rainy season, from October to April, is marked by heavy rainfall, especially in December, January, and February, with daytime temperatures of 30-35°C and nighttime temperatures of 15-20°C.
Getting to Alto Paraíso de Goiás is convenient. By plane, the Brasília International Airport is about 230 km away, and the drive to Alto Paraíso takes 3 to 4 hours. By car, the town is accessible via the BR-010 or BR-020 highways, with an updated GPS recommended. Companies such as Real Expresso and Viação Anapolina offer regular bus services from Brasília to Alto Paraíso, with a travel time of about 4 to 5 hours.
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