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Multi Activity
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Palmas
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Palmas
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Camping, Glamping & Hotel
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English, Portuguese
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10
- Hassle-Free Booking
- Handpicked Local Partners
- Sustainable Travel
- Book with Flexibility
About the adventure
The 6-day Jalapão trekking tour offers an unparalleled journey through one of Brazil’s most pristine landscapes, taking adventurers on foot across golden dunes, crystal-clear river beaches, and lush trails.
The itinerary leads travelers to beautiful waterfalls and the famous fervedouros (natural springs where it’s impossible to sink). The experience also includes rafting down the Novo River and visits to traditional quilombola communities for immersive cultural experiences.
We call this adventure a Jalapoeira Crossing, a multi-day trek that covers over 50 km of trails through river beaches, waterfalls, fervedouros, and local communities. This is a journey where your feet take your body, mind, and spirit along indescribable paths in Jalapão.
⭐ Custom private tour: Looking for more adventure? Private groups can customize their Jalapão tours. Contact us for more information!
Highlights of the adventure
- Full itinerary: trekking, fervedouros, waterfalls, rafting, and river beaches.
- Deep dive into Jalapão State Park’s less visited areas (only reachable by 4x4 vehicles).
- Visit some of the most beautiful attractions in the region, such as Velha and Formiga waterfalls, Buritizinho and Encontro das Águas fervedouros, Serra do Espiríto Santo, the dunes of Jalapão, the Novo River, etc.
- Engage with local quilombola communities (Boa Esperança, Mumbuca, and Rio Novo).
- Diverse accommodations in different inns, camping sites, and locals’ houses across São Félix do Tocantins and Mateiros.
- All-inclusive experience: round-trip transfer, accommodation, meals, and local guides.
Day by day
📍 Departure from Palmas, Tocantins: PlanetaEXO’s local partner will pick you up from the airport or your hotel in the city at 7 AM heading to São Félix do Tocantins.
On the way to São Félix, stop at the Peixinho River source for a refreshing dip before arriving at the lodge at around 1 PM. Take a moment to check into your room before hiking back to the river (1.2 km) for lunch at its banks and a nice swim.
Walk back to the lodge, take a break to rest for a while and get ready for a 2.8 km trek (round trip) towards Morro da Catedral to watch the mesmerizing sunset of Jalapão State Park.
- Driving distance (total): 237 km (approx. 3.5 hours)
- Trekking distance (total): 6.8 km (approx. 5 hours)
Travessia da Velha, our first activity of the day, is one of the most beloved treks in Jalapão. At 6 AM, the group will hike almost 12 km across trails covered and surrounded by green lush vegetation towards Cachoeira da Velha, an iconic waterfall famous for its horseshoe-like shape.
After lunch outdoors, it’s time for a thrilling Class IV rafting session down the Novo River and visits to some of its beaches—known for having clean, drinkable water.
Later, we’ll hike over 3.5 km back to the lodge (expected arrival at 6 PM) to have dinner and rest for the night.
- Driving distance (total): 33 km (approx. 50 minutes)
- Trekking distance (total): 15.5 km (approx. 6 hours)
At 6:30 AM, walk 3 km until you reach Fervedouro do Alecrim, where we’ll make a quick stop to recharge and enjoy the natural beauty. Shortly after, hike for 9 km to Boa Esperança, a quilombola community led by Mr. Adão Ribeiro. During the visit to his house, the group will learn all about the local customs and traditions. Great opportunity for cultural exchange!
After lunch in Boa Esperança, continue the trek until you reach Fervedouro Jatobá. Cool off in its green-blue waters, take lots of pictures, and then head to Prata Community, where we’ll enjoy a lovely dinner.
The group will spend the night at one of the locals’ houses, but there’s also the possibility for an overnight stay at a cozy guesthouse in São Félix do Tocantins (subject to additional cost).
- Driving distance (total): 5 km (approx. 10 minutes)
- Trekking distance (total): 15.5 km (approx. 6 hours)
The day starts with one of Jalapão State Park’s must-visit sites: Formiga Waterfall, which pools into a beautiful crystal-blue natural well, perfect for cooling off.
We’ll drive to Fervedouro Butirizinho for more swimming, lunch, and a moment to relax. Then, hike for 4 km to Encontro das Águas, the fervedouro where the Formiga and Soninho rivers meet.
In the late afternoon, we’ll learn more about Jalapão’s culture at the Mumbuca community, world-famous for its artists’ intricate work with capim-dourado, the fascinating golden grass. After the visit, head to the accommodation in Mateiros for the night.
- Driving distance (total): 80 km (approx. 2 hours)
- Trekking distance (total): 13 km (approx. 5 hours)
When the sky is still dark, hike up the Serra do Espírito Santo, a 200-meter sandstone plateau that offers jaw-dropping views of the entire park. At the top, you’ll watch a stunning sunrise.
Right after, it’s time to walk for over 3 km through the Cerrado’s typical vegetation until you reach the Jalapão’s dune cliffs, where the group will embark on an exciting 6-km trail across the orange-golden sand surrounded by mountains.
Lunch break takes place at Dona Deusa’s restaurant, located in the Rio Novo community. Then, head to Pixico Beach to enjoy your free afternoon. Rio Novo is also where we’ll have dinner and rest for the night (choose between camping or sleeping in hammocks).
- Driving distance (total): 180 km (approx. 5 hours)
- Trekking distance (total): 12.8 km (approx. 6 hours)
On the last day of our Jalapão trekking tour, live an unforgettable adventure with a 4-hour Class III raft down the Novo River towards Clóvis Beach.
At around 12 PM, enjoy a hearty lunch at the riverbanks and get ready to return to Palmas.
📍 Departure from Mateiros, Tocantins: PlanetaEXO’s local partner will transfer you back to Palmas after lunch. Scheduled arrival at 6 PM.
- Driving distance (total): 229 km (approx. 4.5 hours)
- Rafting distance (total): 10 km (approx. 4 hours)
Includes:
- Round-trip transfer (Palmas ⇌ Jalapão)
- 5-night accommodation in São Félix do Tocantins and Mateiros (inns, homestay, and camping)
- Meals (full board)
- Mineral water during all activities
- Entrance fees for all activities
- Guided tours (trekking, fervedouros, waterfalls, rafting, river beaches)
- Interaction with local communities
- Expert local guides
Not included:
- Flight tickets
- Travel insurance
- Breakfast on the first day and dinner on the last day
- English-speaking guides (can be arranged upon request; subject to availability)
- Optional tours
- Personal expenses (e.g., laundry service, phone calls, etc.)
- Accommodation in Palmas
Accommodation
The stay experience of this Jalapão trekking tour includes several accommodations, which may change according to availability.
Jalapão accommodations are functional and cozy. The inns offer everything for resting and leisure, including air-conditioned rooms, entertainment areas, and proximity to the national park. Some may be smaller and simpler than others, but they still provide great services.
On the third day of this tour, travelers spend the night at a local’s house. The accommodations are modest but still cozy and clean, providing a truly authentic experience that allows for a deeper cultural connection. If you want more privacy, you can book a guesthouse in the city (an additional cost of R$ 100).
The group also sets up camp or sleeps in hammocks (day 5); your tour guide will help you with everything you need to get comfortable. Either way, these rustic stays are perfect for people who can’t get enough of nature and adventure!
Jalapão Ecolodge (Sáo Félix do Tocantins)
Jalapão Ecolodge is an eco-friendly retreat that offers unique accommodations, ranging from rustic treehouses to cozy bungalows and lakeside suites, some of which feature luxury touches like hydromassage tubs. Its impressive common areas include a private beach, a sun terrace, and a children’s playground, all designed with a low-impact environmental philosophy.
Guests can enjoy a variety of on-site services such as a restaurant serving continental and vegan breakfast options, a bar, and specialized equipment for activities like snorkeling, canoeing, and cycling.
Pousada Beira da Mata (Mateiros)
Offering an authentic and sophisticated experience through its 12 individual chalets, Pousada Beira da Mata is designed to ensure total privacy for guests, with climate-controlled accommodations featuring private balconies and catering to everyone—from solo travelers to families. The infrastructure includes a restaurant renowned for its traditional local cuisine, a bar, and free Wi-Fi.
Camping (Mateiros)
In the Rio Novo community, the group spends the night under the stars on a small freshwater beach on the Novo River. Travelers can choose between sleeping in tents pitched on the sand or in hammocks protected by a wooden and straw structure.
Food
The 6-day Jalapão trek from Palmas, Brazil, features meals at hotels in each region (São Félix do Tocantins and Mateiros), during strategic breaks between activities and in local restaurants or at the houses of residents of the quilombola communities (Boa Esperança and Rio Novo).
The meals (buffet-style) include classic Brazilian recipes and dishes typical of the Cerrado region, such as chambari (ossobuco), chicken stew, fish (such as tilapia and tambaqui), barbecue, and other dishes cooked on a wood-burning stove, as well as menus for travelers with dietary restrictions (vegans, vegetarians, lactose-intolerant, etc).
Breakfast usually includes bread, cheese, cold meats, fresh fruit, cake, Brazilian-style tapioca, eggs, coffee, milk, juice, etc. For lunch and dinner, enjoy delicious meals with white rice, beans, meat or chicken/pork, fish, pasta, and vegetables.
Frequently Asked Questions
This tour is recommended for nature enthusiasts, couples, and friend groups.
The itinerary is led by our partner’s highly qualified team of professionals.
We also rely on local operators to organize transfers and provide bilingual guides (at an additional cost), ensuring a more comfortable and seamless experience throughout the trip.
This tour operates year-round. Contact us to check availability.
- Starts at (first day): Palmas, Tocantins (airport or hotel) – Departure at 7 AM.
- Ends at (last day): Palmas, Tocantins (airport or hotel) – Arrival 6 PM.
- Palmas ⇌ São Félix: 237 km (approx. 3.5 hours).
Land at Palmas Airport – Brigadeiro Lysias Rodrigues (PMW), then head to your accommodation. This tour includes round-trip transfers.
Traveling in comfortable vehicles, PlanetaEXO’s local partner will take care of transporting you to Jalapão and back to Palmas—whether to the airport or a hotel in the city.
Regardless of the time of year, the temperature variation in Jalapão is small, with a maximum average of 30°C (86°F) to 34°C (93.2°F) and a minimum between 15°C (59°F) and 20°C (68°F).
While this is a year-round destination, the best time for a Jalapão trekking experience is during the dry season (May to September), when the weather conditions are considerably better.
Yes, our local partner can easily accommodate specific dietary needs (such as vegetarian meals or food allergies). Just make sure to note these details on your registration form prior to your trip so they can prepare accordingly.
The Jalapão trek takes around 6 days to complete, covering various terrains and attractions within the state park.
While previous trekking experience is helpful, it’s not mandatory. However, a good level of fitness and an enthusiasm for outdoor activities are strongly recommended.
Accommodations include a mix of lodges, glamping sites, and camping in local communities. These arrangements provide comfort while maintaining a connection to the natural surroundings.
Yes, the journey often includes visits to quilombola communities and opportunities to interact with locals, learn about their culture, and share experiences.
Yes, one checked bag weighing up to 10 kg or a 50 L backpack is allowed per person—excess baggage may incur a charge. Hard-sided suitcases are not recommended. PlanetaEXO and the local operators are not responsible for any damage to luggage.
Don’t forget to pack the following items for your Jalapão trek:
Equipment
- Camping backpack (10 to 15 liters, enough to carry water and basic items; the car carries other equipment for and meals and the the sleeping areas)
- Sleeping bags suitable for the temperature of the region (+15°)
- 1 thin cotton sheet
- 1 pillow
Medicine
- Continuous and emergency medication (for headaches, stomach bugs, allergies…) plasters, bandages, etc.
Accessories
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Lip balm
- Insect repellent
- Personal hygiene kit (preferably biodegradable)
- Diving goggles
- Flashlight/Headlamp and extra batteries
Clothing
- 4 T-shirts with UV protection (dry-fit style)
- 1 pair of light clothes to sleep 2 nights in the tents.
- 2 or 3 comfortable shorts for walking (lycra to avoid chafing) Light and comfortable clothes for walking and protection against rainy weather
- 2 jackets or windbreakers
- 1 balaclava
- Hat or cap for sun protection
- 2 bathing suits (shorts, bikinis, swimsuits, etc.)
- 1 raincoat
- 1 compact microfiber towel
- 1 bath towel
Footwear
- Boots or sneakers for walking on sandy surfaces
- Sandals for rafting
- 3 pairs of hiking socks
Hydration and nutrition
- Reusable water bottle or canteen
- Fruit and cereal bars
- Non-perishable snacks (dried fruit, nuts, chocolate or similar, cereal bars, etc.)
More items
- 2 walking poles
- Wet wipes
- Hand sanitizer
- Chlorine tablets
Citizens from certain countries require a visa to enter Brazil, while others are exempt under specific conditions.
👉 Learn more: Entry Visas to Brazil – Ministry of External Relations
The Brazilian government doesn’t require foreign tourists to be vaccinated, but the Ministry of Health advises that visitors arrive in the country with a complete vaccination schedule for diphtheria, tetanus, polio, rubella, and measles.
For extra safety, getting shots for yellow fever and hepatitis A/B is also recommended.
👉 Learn more: Vaccination and Traveller’s Health (Brazil) / CDC Travelers’ Health (USA) / Foreign Travel Advice (UK)
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Awesome experience
By Kelseyfrom United StatesJune 19, 2025I’m very glad I went with this company for my trip to jalapao. They were very responsive, helped me when I needed to adjust the itinerary due to a minor injury, and chose great tour I’m very glad I went with this company for my trip to jalapao. They were very responsive, helped me when I needed to adjust the itinerary due to a minor injury, and chose great tour companies to partner with. I would highly recommend planeta exo! …read more read lessDate of Experience: June 19, 2025 -
Awesome experience By Kelseyfrom United StatesJune 19, 2025I’m very glad I went with this company for my trip to jalapao. They were very responsive, helped me when I needed to adjust the itinerary due to a minor injury, and chose great tour I’m very glad I went with this company for my trip to jalapao. They were very responsive, helped me when I needed to adjust the itinerary due to a minor injury, and chose great tour companies to partner with. I would highly recommend planeta exo! …read more read lessDate of Experience: June 19, 2025
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Awesome experience By Kelseyfrom United StatesJune 19, 2025I’m very glad I went with this company for my trip to jalapao. They were very responsive, helped me when I needed to adjust the itinerary due to a minor injury, and chose great tour I’m very glad I went with this company for my trip to jalapao. They were very responsive, helped me when I needed to adjust the itinerary due to a minor injury, and chose great tour companies to partner with. I would highly recommend planeta exo! …read more read lessDate of Experience: June 19, 2025
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Awesome experience By Kelseyfrom United StatesJune 19, 2025I’m very glad I went with this company for my trip to jalapao. They were very responsive, helped me when I needed to adjust the itinerary due to a minor injury, and chose great tour I’m very glad I went with this company for my trip to jalapao. They were very responsive, helped me when I needed to adjust the itinerary due to a minor injury, and chose great tour companies to partner with. I would highly recommend planeta exo! …read more read lessDate of Experience: June 19, 2025
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Awesome experience By Kelseyfrom United StatesJune 19, 2025I’m very glad I went with this company for my trip to jalapao. They were very responsive, helped me when I needed to adjust the itinerary due to a minor injury, and chose great tour I’m very glad I went with this company for my trip to jalapao. They were very responsive, helped me when I needed to adjust the itinerary due to a minor injury, and chose great tour companies to partner with. I would highly recommend planeta exo! …read more read lessDate of Experience: June 19, 2025
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Excellent trip to Tocantins (Jalapão and Serra Geral)!By Caéfrom BrazilMay 25, 2024An excellent 6-day trip, with a very well planned itinerary and different experiences, little explored (out of the "ordinary") and top quality guiding, with a lot of attention. Even in the most visited places, the An excellent 6-day trip, with a very well planned itinerary and different experiences, little explored (out of the "ordinary") and top quality guiding, with a lot of attention. Even in the most visited places, the planning of the itinerary differs from the rhythm and schedules usually followed by other tourists, which allows you to enjoy the places visited with exclusivity. Our guides provided excellent service. The Jalapão and Serra Geral are wonderful! Highlights include: Trilha da Velha + rafting on the Rio Novo (also great work by the boat leader, from Nova Aventura); Sunrise on the summit of Serra do Espírito Santo; Sunset at the top of Morro da Catedral; Fervedouro do Encontro das Águas; and Arches of the Sun. My congratulations and thanks to everyone who helped us. I would definitely recommend it! …read more read lessDate of Experience: May 15, 2024
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Excellent trip to Tocantins (Jalapão and Serra Geral)!By Caéfrom BrazilMay 25, 2024An excellent 6-day trip, with a very well planned itinerary and different experiences, little explored (out of the "ordinary") and top quality guiding, with a lot of attention. Even in the most visited places, the An excellent 6-day trip, with a very well planned itinerary and different experiences, little explored (out of the "ordinary") and top quality guiding, with a lot of attention. Even in the most visited places, the planning of the itinerary differs from the rhythm and schedules usually followed by other tourists, which allows you to enjoy the places visited with exclusivity. Our guides provided excellent service. The Jalapão and Serra Geral are wonderful! Highlights include: Trilha da Velha + rafting on the Rio Novo (also great work by the boat leader, from Nova Aventura); Sunrise on the summit of Serra do Espírito Santo; Sunset at the top of Morro da Catedral; Fervedouro do Encontro das Águas; and Arches of the Sun. My congratulations and thanks to everyone who helped us. I would definitely recommend it! …read more read lessDate of Experience: May 15, 2024
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Excellent trip to Tocantins (Jalapão and Serra Geral)!By Caéfrom BrazilMay 25, 2024An excellent 6-day trip, with a very well planned itinerary and different experiences, little explored (out of the "ordinary") and top quality guiding, with a lot of attention. Even in the most visited places, the An excellent 6-day trip, with a very well planned itinerary and different experiences, little explored (out of the "ordinary") and top quality guiding, with a lot of attention. Even in the most visited places, the planning of the itinerary differs from the rhythm and schedules usually followed by other tourists, which allows you to enjoy the places visited with exclusivity. Our guides provided excellent service. The Jalapão and Serra Geral are wonderful! Highlights include: Trilha da Velha + rafting on the Rio Novo (also great work by the boat leader, from Nova Aventura); Sunrise on the summit of Serra do Espírito Santo; Sunset at the top of Morro da Catedral; Fervedouro do Encontro das Águas; and Arches of the Sun. My congratulations and thanks to everyone who helped us. I would definitely recommend it! …read more read lessDate of Experience: May 15, 2024
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Excellent trip to Tocantins (Jalapão and Serra Geral)!By Caéfrom BrazilMay 25, 2024An excellent 6-day trip, with a very well planned itinerary and different experiences, little explored (out of the "ordinary") and top quality guiding, with a lot of attention. Even in the most visited places, the An excellent 6-day trip, with a very well planned itinerary and different experiences, little explored (out of the "ordinary") and top quality guiding, with a lot of attention. Even in the most visited places, the planning of the itinerary differs from the rhythm and schedules usually followed by other tourists, which allows you to enjoy the places visited with exclusivity. Our guides provided excellent service. The Jalapão and Serra Geral are wonderful! Highlights include: Trilha da Velha + rafting on the Rio Novo (also great work by the boat leader, from Nova Aventura); Sunrise on the summit of Serra do Espírito Santo; Sunset at the top of Morro da Catedral; Fervedouro do Encontro das Águas; and Arches of the Sun. My congratulations and thanks to everyone who helped us. I would definitely recommend it! …read more read lessDate of Experience: May 15, 2024
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Excellent trip to Tocantins (Jalapão and Serra Geral)!By Caéfrom BrazilMay 25, 2024An excellent 6-day trip, with a very well planned itinerary and different experiences, little explored (out of the "ordinary") and top quality guiding, with a lot of attention. Even in the most visited places, the An excellent 6-day trip, with a very well planned itinerary and different experiences, little explored (out of the "ordinary") and top quality guiding, with a lot of attention. Even in the most visited places, the planning of the itinerary differs from the rhythm and schedules usually followed by other tourists, which allows you to enjoy the places visited with exclusivity. Our guides provided excellent service. The Jalapão and Serra Geral are wonderful! Highlights include: Trilha da Velha + rafting on the Rio Novo (also great work by the boat leader, from Nova Aventura); Sunrise on the summit of Serra do Espírito Santo; Sunset at the top of Morro da Catedral; Fervedouro do Encontro das Águas; and Arches of the Sun. My congratulations and thanks to everyone who helped us. I would definitely recommend it! …read more read lessDate of Experience: May 15, 2024
Terms and Conditions
We understand that your travel plans may need to be adjusted, and we aim to be as helpful as possible in those instances. We ask that you review the details of our cancellation policy below:- Free Cancellation Period: You may cancel your reservation at no cost up to 35 days before your departure date.
- Partial Refund Period: If you cancel between 34 and 8 days prior to your departure, a cancellation fee of 35% of the total trip cost will be charged.
- Non-Refundable Period: No refunds will be provided for cancellations made 7 days or fewer before departure.
