7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Brasilia

Brasilia, the capital of Brazil, is known for its modernist architecture and unique city planning. However, digital nomads living in this city might crave a change of scenery on the weekends. Fortunately, Brasilia is surrounded by a variety of destinations that cater to all tastes, from natural wonders and historical towns to hidden gems off the beaten track. Here are seven fun weekend getaways that offer a perfect escape from the city life.

Pirenópolis

Just a couple of hours from Brasilia, Pirenópolis is a charming colonial town known for its preserved 18th-century architecture, cobblestone streets, and vibrant cultural scene. It's a great place to experience traditional Brazilian festivals, explore artisan shops, and enjoy the local cuisine. The town is also surrounded by nature reserves and waterfalls, making it a perfect spot for hiking and swimming in natural pools.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Pirenópolis is by car, which takes about 2 hours from Brasilia. There are also bus services available from Brasilia's central bus station.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to visit the Festa do Divino Espírito Santo, a traditional festival that takes place 50 days after Easter and features parades, music, and dancing.

Where to Stay: Pousada dos Pireneus is a popular choice with a water park for those looking to cool off, while Pousada do Frade offers a more traditional stay in the heart of the historic center.

Where to Eat: Restaurante Maiale is a must-visit for its traditional slow-cooked pork dishes and rustic atmosphere, while Café Pireneus offers a cozy spot for coffee and pastries.

Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The park boasts stunning landscapes, from towering waterfalls and crystal-clear rivers to vast canyons and unique rock formations. It's an ideal place for hiking, bird watching, and stargazing, thanks to its clear skies and minimal light pollution.

How to Get There: The park is about a 3 to 4-hour drive from Brasilia. There are also bus services that can take you to the nearby towns of Alto Paraíso de Goiás or São Jorge.

Travel Tip: Make sure to visit the Vale da Lua (Valley of the Moon), a lunar-like landscape with rock formations sculpted by water over millions of years.

Where to Stay: Casa Rosa offers a tranquil retreat with stunning views of the park, while Pousada Caminho das Cachoeiras is known for its proximity to waterfalls.

Where to Eat: Jambalaya Restaurante is a favorite for its eclectic menu featuring both Brazilian and international dishes, often using locally sourced ingredients.

Salto do Itiquira

Salto do Itiquira is a breathtaking waterfall located just a short drive from Brasilia. At 168 meters, it's one of the highest waterfalls in Brazil that you can access easily. The surrounding Itiquira Park offers picnic areas, walking trails, and the opportunity to take a refreshing dip in the smaller waterfalls and pools at the base of the main fall.

How to Get There: The waterfall is about a 1.5-hour drive from Brasilia. There is no direct public transportation, so renting a car is the best option.

Travel Tip: Visit during the week to avoid the crowds and have a more serene experience with nature.

Where to Stay: Fazenda Hotel Itiquira offers a rustic farm stay experience with the added bonus of being close to the waterfall.

Where to Eat: The park has a few snack bars, but for a more substantial meal, head back to the town of Formosa, where you can find restaurants like Churrascaria Lobo, known for its traditional Brazilian barbecue.

Cavalcante

Cavalcante is a lesser-known destination that offers a more off-the-beaten-path experience in the heart of Brazil's Cerrado biome. This small town is the gateway to the northern part of Chapada dos Veadeiros and is home to the Kalunga community, descendants of escaped slaves who have preserved their unique culture and traditions. Visitors can explore waterfalls, natural pools, and engage with the local history and culture.

How to Get There: Cavalcante is about a 4-hour drive from Brasilia. The roads can be challenging, so a 4x4 vehicle is recommended.

Travel Tip: Engage with the local Kalunga community by taking a cultural tour, which often includes visits to traditional houses and storytelling sessions.

Where to Stay: Pousada Vila dos Ipês offers comfortable accommodations with a touch of local culture, while Chalés do Lago provides a more secluded lakeside experience.

Where to Eat: Restaurante Flor do Cerrado serves up hearty regional dishes with a home-cooked feel, often featuring locally sourced ingredients.

Corumbá de Goiás

Corumbá de Goiás is a historic town with a rich cultural heritage, nestled by the Corumbá River. It's known for its colonial architecture, including the beautiful Igreja Nossa Senhora da Penha de França church. Adventure enthusiasts will enjoy activities such as rappelling and rafting in the nearby Corumbá River, while those looking for relaxation can soak in the natural beauty and slower pace of life.

How to Get There: The town is approximately a 2-hour drive from Brasilia. There are also bus options available, but the car provides more flexibility for exploring the surrounding areas.

Travel Tip: For an adrenaline rush, try the zip line that crosses the Corumbá River, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Where to Stay: Pousada Salto Corumbá offers cabins with river views and easy access to the waterfalls and natural pools.

Where to Eat: Restaurante Panela de Pedra is a local favorite, known for its traditional Brazilian dishes cooked in clay pots.

Formosa

Formosa is a tranquil city that serves as a base for exploring the region's numerous ecological attractions, including caves, waterfalls, and natural pools. It's a great spot for those interested in speleology and ecotourism. The city itself has a laid-back atmosphere, with local markets and parks where you can experience the everyday life of the region.

How to Get There: Formosa is about a 1.5-hour drive from Brasilia. Regular bus services also connect the two cities.

Travel Tip: Visit the Buraco das Araras, a large sinkhole with a lush forest at the bottom, which is home to red-and-green macaws and other wildlife.

Where to Stay: Hotel Fazenda Araras offers a farm-like experience with the comfort of modern amenities and is close to the Buraco das Araras.

Where to Eat: Churrascaria do Gaúcho is renowned for its all-you-can-eat meat buffet, a staple of Brazilian cuisine.

Alto Paraíso de Goiás

Alto Paraíso de Goiás is a mystical town located on a quartz plateau in Chapada dos Veadeiros. It's a hub for those seeking spiritual growth and healing, with numerous holistic centers and therapists. The town is also a starting point for exploring the many natural attractions of the region, including waterfalls, valleys, and the stunning landscapes of the national park.

How to Get There: The town is about a 3-hour drive from Brasilia. Buses are available, but a car is recommended for flexibility in visiting the surrounding natural sites.

Travel Tip: Alto Paraíso is known for its vibrant community of artists and healers, so take the time to explore the local shops and attend a workshop or therapy session.

Where to Stay: Pousada dos Guias offers a peaceful retreat with a focus on sustainability, while Pousada Camelot Inn features themed rooms and a medieval-inspired atmosphere.

Where to Eat: Cravo & Canela is a cozy restaurant with a diverse menu that caters to vegetarians and meat-eaters alike, and is known for its homemade desserts.

Each of these destinations offers a unique experience for digital nomads looking to explore the beauty and culture of Brazil beyond the confines of Brasilia. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural enrichment, these weekend getaways provide the perfect opportunity to recharge and find inspiration in the country's diverse landscapes and communities.