The 33,000-ha (81,545-acre) Parque Nacional Chapada dos Guimarães is located in the tablelands that mark the western edge of the Brazilian central plateau. It has several excellent walks to waterfalls and caves, or you can hire guides to lead you on overnight excursions. The two exceptional sights inside the park are the 60m (196ft) Véu de Noiva (Bridal Veil) falls and the Cidade de Pedra (Stone City).

The lookout perched above the impressive, free-falling Véu de Noiva is Chapada's most dazzling place, while the Cidade de Pedra has wonderful vistas and rock formations reminiscent of stone temples. If you don't have a car, your best bet is to take an excursion with Eco Turismo Cultural (www.chapadadosguimaraes.com.br).