Amazon Adventures

Brazil Tours and Travel

Safari in Brazil - Jalapão - 7 days

In the heartland of Brazil, in the middle of the immensity of Serra Geral with its rivers of pure and crystalline water, beaches, arid and primitive nature, there is JALAPÃO. Located in the west of the recently formed state of Tocantins, with an area of 34.133km2, it is a transition region between the stunted spare vegetation and waste land composed of stunted twisted trees, called "Jalapão desert" - it is really a large oasis, since, in spite of the sandy soil, this region pertaining to the mountain has springs and brooks which in their descent to the Tocantins river valley, besides forming beautiful waterfalls and rapids, allows the survival of a diversified fauna and flora. The origin of the word Jalapão is related to the Jalapa (plant found in that region)

In order to get to know this vast region, we shall be using an overland vehicle, a 4x4 truck specially developed to ensure safety and comfort on trips like this.
The truck has capacity for 18 passengers, reclinable seats, air conditioning and some exclusive items such as windows, which open totally, and 4 belvederes on the roof of the vehicle, which allow a privileged view to make a beautiful photo or simply to enjoy nature.

Day 1 Palmas
Arrival in the airport of Palmas and transfer to Pousada dos Girassóis. Rest of day free

Day 2 Palmas - Jalapão
After breakfast, start of the trip to Jalapão, in an adapted 4x4 vehicle. The trip lasts about 6 hours (including stop for lunch). The vehicle has comfortable seats, panoramic windows and viewpoints from the roof, for the appreciation of the landscape in the way or to get that special picture. This first part of the trip is done in good paved roads and takes about 3.5 hours, this will be the last few hours before we enter the tracks and unpaved roads in Jalapão. After lunch stop in the small town of Ponte Alta we will head towards the mysterious Serra Geral and leave civilization behind. On the way, stop at the Suçuapara Canyon, for a little refreshing swim in the waters that run through the canyon. Arrival and accommodation in the tents at the Safari Camp, where our staff will welcome the guests, show the facilities and give some safety instructions and tips on how to deal with wildlife the lives on the area.The tents are for 2 people, with individual beds, with all basic comforts, Chemical bathrooms, warm showers. The Staff includes: guides, drivers and a cook.Included meals: breakfast (in Palmas), lunch (on the way) and dinner.

Day 3 - Jalapão
In the morning, after breakfast, there will be instructions on how to use the kayaks. The river beach in front of the Safari Camp is where we will start going down Novo River. Wild and pristine, Novo River is one of the last drinkable water rivers in Brazil. Its sandy bottom forms beautiful beaches allowing us to stop for swimming and probably see tracks of the many animals that live on its boarder. Lunch at the Safari Camp .In the afternoon, we will go to the famous Jalapão Dunes. Formed by golden color sand, this natural sanctuary is surrounded by a huge "Chapada Mountain" that changes its colors when the sun is going down on the horizon and also by a incredible forest of Buritis, a big palm tree, found only in the Savanna, it is home to several kinds of birds, parrots and to the big Blue Macaw, almost instinct in nature. The sunset, moonrise and the stars are simply unforgettable. Dinner and overnight at the Safari Camp

Day 4 - Jalapão
Today we will be on the road all day long and will only return to the SAFARI CAMP at night. Besides all the beautiful landscape surrounding us we will visit POÇO DO FERVEDOURO, A powerful spring surrounded by banana trees planted by the ancient Indians that lived on the region. Due to the water pressure flowing from the underground, it is impossible to sink, giving the incredible sensation of floating on air. (Only 6 persons at a time will be allowed in the Fervedouro). After all the fun and surprises provided by this incredible spring we will go to CACHOEIRA DA FORMIGA (30 min. from Fervedouro)a waterfall which forms a crystal-clear emerald green water natural pool, the mild temperature of the water is always a invitation for a relaxing swim and lots of fun. After lunch, departure to MATEIROS, a village where we can buy handicraft made with CAPIM DOURADO, make phone calls, etc. Return to the Safari Camp. Dinner and overnight.

Day 5 - Jalapão
Mirante da Serra (Mountain Belvedere).This wild and mysterious place is the most unexplored and beautiful "Chapada Mountain" (mountains that are completely flat on its top) of the Brazilian Outback. Along the trail (four hour trekking) lots of beautiful sites can be seen including a great view of the Dunes and RIO NOVO valley. Pumas and Jaguars live in the area; sometimes it's easy to see their footprints in the sand. Return to the Safari Camp for lunch. The afternoon will be free to enjoy the campsite and surrounds. Dinner and overnight at the Safari Camp.

Day 6 - Jalapão
After breakfast, we will start our trip back to Palmas. On the way we will visit Cachoeira da Velha, the biggest waterfall in Jalapão. Shaped like 2 horseshoes it has an amazing power. Behind its weather curtain lives a group of big Swallow birds only found in this area. After some pictures of the waterfall (its not possible to swim) we will head towards the LITTLE BEACH, an extremely pleasant place, with friendly shallow waters, a perfect place to end our journey. After lunch, we will go to Ponte Alta for a 30 minutes stop (bathrooms, telephones, beverages...). Arrival at the inn Pousada dos Girassóis for overnight.

Day 7 - Jalapão
Day free and airport transfer. Meals included: breakfast

Note: All kinds of ecotourism activities depend on adequate weather conditions and accessibility. So, the above mentioned program is subject to modification, if the conditions could endanger the security or the comfort of the travelers. Tours can change due to operational, safety or weather condition

Information:
- Jalapão is a remote region and there is no type of infrastructure. The nearest health service station is 100 km away, in the city of Ponte Alta.
- There is no signal for celular telephone, but we have a Satellite phone, for use in emergencies.

General Information
Capacity: Minimum of 2 and maximum of 18 travelers
Level: Easy to Moderate Program
Accommodations: Palmas -Double rooms.
Safari Camp - Tents for 2 people with individual beds
Suggested flights: TAM - 3588 - 11:48h
TAM - 3818 - 21:15h
RG - 5288 - 11:48h
GOL - 1752 - 22:40h

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2011 Price: US$ 1375 per passenger (7days/6nts package). prices are subject to change without previous notice. The extra cost for english speaking guide assistance is US$ 890 per group, not per person
Included: 02 nights in Hotel or Pousada (Inn), standard Room, guided tours, meals, accommodations, transfer from/to Palmas airport
Not Included: Flight; optional tours; travel insurance; drinks; laundry; tips; telephone calls; and any other personal expenses, etc
Regular Departures: Fridays
Personal Gear: Trekking boots; sneakers or hiking boots; long sleeves t-shirts; light warm coat; sunblock; mosquito repellent; hat; sunglasses; flashlight with extra batteries; towels; medications of personal use.