Pousada do Parque

This secluded oasis is a birdwatchers dream. The cozy rooms are clean and the views from the canopy tower are amazing. But the real gold here … the food. Chef Alê’s food rivals the top chef’s of the world. The steak and fish dishes will blow your mind.

If you’re not familiar with Chapada dos Guimaraes, Brazil - it’s well worth taking a few days to explore the magnificent things this area has to offer: Geological formations, waterfalls, lagoons, ancient caves, petroglyphs, scarlet macaws and so much more! Does it sound like paradise? IT IS!! And my absolute FAVORITE place to stay in the Chapada dos Guimaraes area is Pousada do Parque. Pousada do Parque is located at the edge of Chapada dos Guimaraes National Park, and the owner has meticulously created an oasis next to the protected park. There are stunning views from the lodge - but especially from the 40 foot tower which is a short walk from the lodge. (Bring your camera!) The sunsets from the tower are out of this world! Birders headed to the Pantanal will have a completely different array of birds here from the Pantanal. Another good reason not to miss this stop. There are at least 5 hummingbird species that are easy to photograph on the lodge grounds, and other exciting birds that come to the trees around the property (including the Amazonian Motmot and Blue-crowned Trogon). In addition to the great location, the food is wonderful! They offer a farm to table menu with salads coming from the lodge’s own garden and milk from their own cows! The Breakfast Buffet is amazing with fresh papaya, melons, mango, fresh squeezed fruit juices and delicious homemade breads - including the Brazilian favorite, Pão de Queijo, yumm!. Photographers and nature lovers will love the experience and hospitality of Pousada do Parque. This is truly a “do no miss” spot in my book!

We stayed at Pousada do Paruque for 3 nights as part of a private Pantanal birding tour. The location is easily accessible from Cuiaba and is found at the end of a 5km dirt road. Once you arrive, the grounds and views are gorgeous - one could be happy just hanging by the pool and watching the Hummers but we chose to walk the trails and grounds in search of birds. Our room was small but comfortable with queen bed plus another twin. The AC and WiFi were adequate. Our breakfasts and lunches were taken in the open air restaurant. The food was excellent and we were thrilled vegetarian selections were available. Overall, a lovely stay in a beautiful location.