São Jorge Travel Guide

Read our travel guide about São Jorge, Brazil. Find out the best places to visit, food and drink scene, where to stay, and safety tips.


Introduction to São Jorge

São Jorge is a small town located in the heart of the Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park, in the state of Goiás, Brazil. This charming town is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, making it a popular destination for those who love hiking, waterfalls, and birdwatching. It also offers a unique cultural experience, where visitors can learn about the Goiania people’s local traditions and customs.

List of Places to Visit in São Jorge

Whether you are a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or someone looking for an adventure, São Jorge has something to offer to everyone. Here are some must-visit places to add to your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Goiás Velho Museum is a great place to learn about the state’s rich cultural history. This museum features exhibits on Brazilian folklore, indigenous cultures, and traditional handicrafts.

Natural Attractions of São Jorge: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park is the highlight of São Jorge. This park offers several stunning hiking trails, natural pools, and waterfalls. It’s a great spot for birdwatching and stargazing.
  • Alto Paraíso de Goiás is a neighboring town that has several impressive natural attractions, such as Vale da Lua (Moon Valley), a unique rock formation that resembles the moon’s surface.

Hiking/Biking Routes of São Jorge

São Jorge is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts as it has several beautiful hiking and biking trails. The most popular routes include:

  • Cânion 2 Trail: This trail is a moderate hike that takes you through the stunning Cânion 2, where you’ll find waterfalls and natural pools along the way.
  • Parque Nacional da Chapada dos Veadeiros: This national park offers several hiking trails of varying difficulty levels. The more seasoned hikers should try the Carrossel Trail, a challenging 18 km hike with stunning views.

Best Things to Do in São Jorge: Activities and Tours

  • Visit local waterfalls: São Jorge is home to several stunning waterfalls, such as Cachoeira do Rio Preto and Cachoeira do Segredo. We recommend taking a guided tour to explore these natural wonders fully.
  • Stargazing: São Jorge has minimal light pollution, making it an ideal location for stargazing. Several tour operators provide excellent stargazing tours with professional telescopes.
  • Hot-air balloon tour: For a unique and unforgettable experience, take a hot-air balloon tour over the scenic landscapes of São Jorge and the surrounding areas.

Week-Long Itinerary for São Jorge

  • Day 1: Visit the local waterfall, Cachoeira do Rio Preto, and take a dip in the refreshing water.
  • Day 2: Explore the Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park, hike to the Carrossel Trail, and end your day by watching the sunset at Mirante da Janela.
  • Day 3: Visit the Goiás Velho Museum, learn about the local culture, and enjoy some traditional Goiania cuisine.
  • Day 4: Take a guided tour to Cachoeira do Segredo, a stunning waterfall with a natural pool perfect for swimming and picnicking.
  • Day 5: Participate in a stargazing tour and witness the stunning celestial sky of São Jorge.
  • Day 6: Go on a hot-air balloon tour and enjoy breathtaking views of the local landscapes.
  • Day 7: Relax, unwind, and explore the local town, mingling with the friendly locals and browsing through local handicraft markets.

Food and Drink Scene of São Jorge

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pamonha: This is a traditional Brazilian dish made with ground corn paste, cheese, and sugar.
  • Pequi: A fruit native to the Cerrado region, pequi is often used in traditional Goiania cuisine.
  • Empadão goiano: A savory pie filled with chicken or beef, typical of the Goiania region.

Local Beverages

  • Cachaça: A distilled spirit made from sugarcane juice, cachaça is a popular local drink that many Brazilians enjoy.
  • Guaraná: A soft drink made from guaraná fruit, guaraná is the most popular drink in Brazil.

Where to Stay in São Jorge: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Casa Rosada: A cozy guesthouse with comfortable rooms located in the heart of São Jorge.
  • Hostel Vila Saíra: A budget-friendly hostel with bunk beds, private rooms, and shared bathrooms.
  • Pousada dos Guias: A charming guesthouse with a restaurant, bar, and a beautiful garden.

What to Buy in São Jorge: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Honey: São Jorge is famous for its delicious honey made from local bees and wildflowers.
  • Handicrafts: São Jorge has several artisanal markets where you can buy hand-woven textiles, pottery, and jewelry made by local artisans.
  • Crystals: The Chapada dos Veadeiros region is famous for its crystals, which are often sold in the local markets.

Local Culture and Customs of São Jorge

São Jorge has a rich cultural heritage and customs that visitors should be aware of. One thing to note is that Chapada dos Veadeiros is considered a spiritual place by many Brazilians. Visitors should be respectful of these beliefs and avoid disrupting any rituals or ceremonies.

Best Time to Visit São Jorge

The best time to visit São Jorge is from April to September when the weather is mild and dry, making it perfect for outdoor activities and exploring. If you want to avoid the crowds, we recommend visiting during the weekdays or the shoulder season (March or October).

Do’s and Don’ts of São Jorge

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions:
  • Embrace the local cuisine and try traditional dishes.
  • Take care of the local environment by not littering or damaging the natural landscapes.

Don’t:

  • Disrupt any local rituals or ceremonies.
  • Touch the wildlife or pick any flowers or plants.

Safety and Health

Safety in São Jorge

São Jorge is a relatively safe destination, but visitors should take standard precautions to prevent theft and stay safe. Avoid walking alone at night, stay cautious when withdrawing money from ATMs, and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas.

Health in São Jorge

Visitors to São Jorge should take standard precautions to prevent mosquito-borne illnesses such as dengue fever and Zika virus. It’s recommended to wear long-sleeved clothing and mosquito repellent at all times.

Getting to São Jorge: Transportation Options and Logistics

São Jorge is a remote town, and many visitors arrive by bus or car from the busier neighboring town of Alto Paraíso de Goiás.

Airports Near São Jorge

The nearest airports to São Jorge are Brasília–Presidente Juscelino Kubitschek International Airport (BSB) and Goiânia Airport (GYN).

Bus Stations Near São Jorge

The closest bus stations to São Jorge are in Alto Paraíso de Goiás, which has regular bus services to other major cities in Brazil.

Other Options

There are several tour operators that offer transfer services from Brasília or Goiânia to São Jorge or Alto Paraíso de Goiás.

How to Get Around in São Jorge

São Jorge is a small town, and visitors can quickly get around on foot. For those wishing to explore the surrounding area, renting a bicycle or hiring a guide in a 4x4 vehicle, such as a jeep, is the best option.

Where to Go Next from São Jorge: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Alto Paraíso de Goiás: A neighboring town with several natural attractions and a vibrant nightlife.
  • Brasília: The capital of Brazil, known for its modernist architecture, is only a few hours’ drive away.
  • Cavalcante: A small colonial town that is the gateway to the Parque Nacional da Chapada dos Veadeiros.

Conclusion

São Jorge is a unique and enchanting destination that offers visitors an unforgettable experience. With stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and delicious cuisine, this town is a must-visit for any traveler exploring Brazil. Plan your trip today and discover the true charm of São Jorge.