Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What's the fitness level required?
A: We ask that participants are able to hike 2-6 hours daily on varied terrain. Our longest hike is around 8 miles, and we have a rest day on day 5. No technical skills are needed, but this trip is centered on getting to know one of the most beautiful national parks in Brazil on foot!
Q: What are the accommodations like?
A: Simple but comfortable (for the most part!) This trip is not your typical “vacation,” in which we stay in fancy hotels! We are fortunate enough to be welcomed by traditional rural communities, where we learn about their way of life and culture, and eat their delicious food! All rooms are shared as doubles or triples, mostly with twin beds. We can do our best to accommodate friends and couples so that they’re at least sharing the same room. On nights 1 and 7, we stay at a lovely, comfortable inn on a beautiful property in town. As we go deeper into rural Brazil on the other nights, accommodations get simpler and more rustic. We may not get a warm shower on some of the properties, but it’s where we will get the best views and will encounter far less tourists than the first part of the trip.
Q: Do I need to speak Portuguese?
A: No - your guide provides translation. We are also happy to teach you some important phrases!
Q: Is there an age requirement?
A: This trip is geared towards folks in their 20’s and 30’s, who are looking for an authentic and adventurous way to experience Brazil that may not be quite as “comfortable” as the other vacations. While we welcome all adventure-minded people who are comfortable with simple accommodations and active days, our journey's pace and style particularly suit young professionals eager to explore beyond the beaten path.
Q: Do the guesthouses we stay at have internet?
A: All of the guesthouses should have internet, except for Mauricio’s house. We stay there on nights 5 and 6.
Q: Is it safe to drink the water?
A: We will provide drinking water that is safe that you can carry with you on the hikes. If you would like to drink from the waters in the park, an outdoor filter is necessary. We recommend the Epic Everywhere Water Filter.
Q: What's the weather like?
A: Warm to hot days, cooler nights. In dry season (May-September) it almost never rains. We do suggest a couple layers and a jacket however for the evenings, because they can get chilly.
Q: What's the food like?
A: Fresh, organic, delicious local cuisine. There will be a mix of Brazilian dishes and traditional Kalunga food, as well as snacks provided for the trail. Most dietary restrictions here are very easily accommodated if we know in advance! Breakfasts will be eaten on the properties we stay, lunches will be more casual on the trail, and we will have early dinners most nights. We will not have a strict schedule or eating routine, but we will all be well fed! We recommend bringing a few of your own favorite bars and snacks from the US if you want, because the US in our opinion still crushes the Brazilian snack game.
Q: How do I get there?
A: Fly to Brasília International Airport. Group transport provided to/from Chapada dos Veadeiros.
Q: What does the transportation look like?
A: We will have two four by four vehicles that will each be driven by our local guides. The highways to and from the airport are smooth, but many of the local dirt roads are extremely bumpy and must be driven slowly. To get to these remote and extraordinary locations, it requires some long and uncomfortable car rides– we call it the old Brazilian massage!
Q: Will I be able to charge my devices?
A: Yes, there will be places to charge your devices, although we recommend you bring a portable charger just in case. Please also bring an adaptor for brazil, as they do not use the same American outlets.
Q: Is this trip good for solo travelers?
A: Yes! Our group size of 12~ travelers is perfect for meeting like-minded people. Whether you come alone or bring a friend, you will be in excellent company!
Q: How should I pack?
A: We are happy to send you a packing list upon request! The most important thing is to bring biodegradable products (toothpaste, sunscreen, shampoo, bug spray), layers for the evenings, good hiking shoes, a bathing suit, and a big hat to protect you from the sun. Further, we suggest that everyone brings one big backpack or duffel to carry their things (40-60l) and one smaller backpack to use on trail (20-30l).