If you’re looking for a destination that’s remote, wild, and breathtakingly beautiful, look no further than Jalapão. Located in the eastern part of Tocantins, Brazil, Jalapão is a vast region of golden sand dunes, crystal-clear springs, dramatic rock formations, and lush savannah. It’s one of Brazil’s last untouched frontiers—perfect for travelers who crave adventure and raw nature.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about visiting Jalapão, from how to get there to what to pack and what not to miss.
Why Jalapão Is Brazil’s Best-Kept Adventure Secret
Jalapão is part of a protected region known as the Jalapão State Park and the surrounding conservation areas. Despite its beauty, the region is still relatively undiscovered by international tourists, making it an ideal destination for those seeking solitude and off-the-grid experiences.
What makes Jalapão unique:
- Golden sand dunes formed in the middle of the savannah
- Fervedouros (natural bubbling springs where you float effortlessly)
- Dramatic rock formations and towering mesas
- Countless waterfalls, canyons, and rivers
How to Get to Jalapão
Jalapão is not easy to reach, which is part of its charm. Here’s how to get there:
Step 1: Fly to Palmas (PMW)
The capital of Tocantins is the main access point. From Palmas, you’ll continue the journey by 4×4 vehicle.
Step 2: Join a Tour or Rent a 4×4
Roads to Jalapão are unpaved and rough, often requiring experienced drivers and off-road vehicles. The safest and most practical way to explore the region is by joining a guided tour (3–6 days).
Top operators offer all-inclusive adventure tours, covering accommodation, meals, transportation, and guides.
Top Attractions in Jalapão
1. Dunas do Jalapão (Jalapão Dunes)
These glowing golden-orange dunes rise out of the vegetation, creating a surreal contrast with the green savannah and blue sky.
- Best time to visit: Sunset
- Bring: Water, sunscreen, and camera
2. Fervedouros (Bubbling Springs)
These are natural springs with strong underwater pressure that makes you float! The water is incredibly clear, with soft, sandy bottoms.
Most popular fervedouros:
- Fervedouro do Ceiça
- Fervedouro Bela Vista
- Fervedouro Buritizinho
Note: Access is controlled to protect the environment, so visits are limited to ~20 minutes per group.
3. Cachoeira da Formiga (Formiga Waterfall)
A compact yet powerful waterfall that cascades into a pool of vibrant green water. Great for swimming and relaxing in a natural jacuzzi.
4. Cânion Sussuapara (Sussuapara Canyon)
A narrow gorge with moss-covered walls and a small stream flowing through. It feels like entering a lost world.
- Easy walk (~300 meters)
- Great for cooling off mid-day
5. Pedra Furada (Holed Rock)
A giant natural rock formation with a circular hole, perfect for silhouette photos at sunrise or sunset.
Best Time to Visit Jalapão
| Season | Weather | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| May–September | Dry season | Ideal for trekking, better roads |
| October–April | Rainy season | Lush landscape, but muddy access |
For first-time visitors, the dry season (June to September) offers the best experience with less chance of weather-related issues.
Where to Stay
Accommodations in Jalapão are simple yet comfortable, often in the form of pousadas or ecolodges.
Top places to stay:
- Pousada do Jalapão (Mateiros) – Eco-conscious and well-located
- Pousada Capim Dourado (São Félix) – Cozy with good food
- Pousada Bela Vista – Right next to Fervedouro Bela Vista
Tours typically include accommodations as part of the package.
What to Pack for Jalapão
- Lightweight hiking clothes
- Swimsuits and towels
- Flashlight/headlamp
- Power bank (electricity may be limited)
- Insect repellent
- Dry bag for electronics
- Hiking shoes and sandals
- Sunscreen and wide-brimmed hat
Sustainable Travel in Jalapão
Jalapão is environmentally sensitive. Help preserve it by:
- Avoiding plastic waste
- Not using sunscreen before entering fervedouros
- Respecting local communities and guides
- Staying on designated trails
Many tourism initiatives are run by local families, creating jobs and preserving culture. Choose operators who support the community and practice low-impact tourism.
Who Should Visit Jalapão?
This destination is ideal for:
- Adventure travelers who love off-roading, hiking, and exploration
- Nature lovers in search of rare beauty
- Photographers chasing the golden light and unique landscapes
- Couples or solo travelers wanting a digital detox
Final Thoughts: Jalapão Is Wild, Remote, and Worth It
Jalapão is not your average vacation. There are no luxury resorts, no cell service in most areas, and no polished tourist attractions. What you get instead is pure, raw, Brazilian wilderness—dunes that glow like fire, springs that defy gravity, and a sky filled with stars like you’ve never seen before.
If you’re looking for a real connection to nature—and don’t mind a little dust on your boots—Jalapão is waiting.
✈️ I’m Miles Carter, a travel writer and explorer passionate about discovering stories that maps can’t show.🌍 From bustling cities to quiet mountain trails, I bring you practical tips, unique experiences, and honest travel advice to help you explore the world with purpose.📍 This blog is your compass to smarter, deeper, and more meaningful travel.
Let’s wander beyond the obvious.