Chapada Diamantina - Águas No Sertão
Flora of the Pico das Almas, Chapada Diamantina - Bahia, Brazil
Finding the best in South America: Chapada Diamantina
27 October 2010
Finding the best in South America: Chapada Diamantina
Rio São Francisco e a Chapada Diamantina, OChapada Diamantina - Águas No SertãoFlora of the Pico das Almas, Chapada Diamantina - Bahia, BrazilFinding the best in South America: Chapada Diamantina
Chapada Diamantina - Águas No SertãoFlora of the Pico das Almas, Chapada Diamantina - Bahia, BrazilFinding the best in South America: Chapada Diamantina
Chapada Diamantina
In a world everchanging at augmentative speeds our satellite systems are taking us all further from our roots, which may include endless cultural baggage. So, if you’re looking for an authentic ground bearing experience, it is with nature where we often find the best in ourselves and this may be just the place for you to come down to earth; CHAPADA DIAMANTINA. For many of us who have asked a few questions to those in the know, there is a certain renowned reputation for this flagstone Brazilian national park. Often, it is not only through words that the best of national parks earn such standing. Photographic representations sometimes speak larger than legends while at the same time, still images seldom capture the feelings associated with a closer to nature experience. Words rarely do justice for this mountain range with many distinct ecosystems and a strong intertwined group of communities dotted around the geographically defined park area.
There are several towns, which circle the periphery of the park, each with its own characteristics, mostly loosely associated to a shared history of precious stone and mineral sourcing, although it is equally arguable that this is an enchanted area deeply rooted in traditional farming. Its economies are modernising with ecotourism. Each town has its specialists who give access to the IBAMA managed wild area. While each national park has its own regulatory system, Chapada Diamantina is a world in itself with varying standards of guardianship. It is always recommended that you employ a guide to enter the park to appreciate all that it offers. If you have hiking experience then you can make more of your time. Similarly, if you are a regular camper, have your own tent and equipment, you may enjoy spending several nights in various locations covering more of the trailed networks of traditionally developed and maintained pathways. Some guides are able to offer 3-night, 5-night or even a weeklong trekking and camping holiday. If you have some mountaineering experience you can make the most of the mountain ranges, including some fairly difficult highland paths. There is also the possibility of rock-climbing, base-jumping, paragliding, mountain-biking, horse-riding, gorge-walking, pot-holing, canoeing and more mountain and river sporting activities. If you aren’t a keen sportsperson, you can still have a fantastic time. Your hostel or hotel should be able to provide you with all the information and usually with expert specialised technicians for each activity. Most tourists are satisfied with day trips, including short walks and the opportunity to refresh themselves with a dip in a pool of cool mountain water and with extraordinary landscaped and wildlife photographic opportunities.
Remembering that the average summer daytime temperatures are seldom below thirty degrees and in winter the sun can be scorching with European summer averages, it is highly recommended that you prepare yourselves with the necessary clothing and accessories, like hats, suncream and even technologies like binoculars can be an eye-opener. Like most mountain ranges, there is a distinct microclimate with changeabilities in precipitation but in general, the rainy season is the southern summer with occasional electric storms and related more verdant vegetations between November and February. Complete cloud cover is a rarity while the winter sometimes produces a generalised browning with desiccation effects on lowland ecosystems. There are cornerstone plant species, some of which are unique to the region and it is strictly prohibited to take samples, other than photographic. Similarly, introduction of non-native species is not allowed. As a result of highly diverse plant-based habitats there is a considerable range of bird species and a mammalian multiplicity that exists in a delicate balance with agricultural practitioners.
For anyone who appreciates landscapes, geographical features, geological formations, active holidaying, quality hospitality, mountain culture and a recognisably unique way of life amongst its inhabitants showing a true community spirit, Chapada Diamantina is just the place to unwind away from the crazy modern western urban lives you lead. It is easily accessible within the heart of Bahia and whether you’re driving, flying or taking a luxurious bus, you can expect to arrive with minimal fuss on any of Brazil’s integrated national intercity road networks leading you to the towns around the park. For those of you who are rally enthusiasts there is a vast amount of dirt track driving between the towns of the region but you should be aware of where and when you can use your vehicles and always respect the local people and farmers who are permanent residents of this charmed gem of traditional rural Brazilian society.
There are several towns, which circle the periphery of the park, each with its own characteristics, mostly loosely associated to a shared history of precious stone and mineral sourcing, although it is equally arguable that this is an enchanted area deeply rooted in traditional farming. Its economies are modernising with ecotourism. Each town has its specialists who give access to the IBAMA managed wild area. While each national park has its own regulatory system, Chapada Diamantina is a world in itself with varying standards of guardianship. It is always recommended that you employ a guide to enter the park to appreciate all that it offers. If you have hiking experience then you can make more of your time. Similarly, if you are a regular camper, have your own tent and equipment, you may enjoy spending several nights in various locations covering more of the trailed networks of traditionally developed and maintained pathways. Some guides are able to offer 3-night, 5-night or even a weeklong trekking and camping holiday. If you have some mountaineering experience you can make the most of the mountain ranges, including some fairly difficult highland paths. There is also the possibility of rock-climbing, base-jumping, paragliding, mountain-biking, horse-riding, gorge-walking, pot-holing, canoeing and more mountain and river sporting activities. If you aren’t a keen sportsperson, you can still have a fantastic time. Your hostel or hotel should be able to provide you with all the information and usually with expert specialised technicians for each activity. Most tourists are satisfied with day trips, including short walks and the opportunity to refresh themselves with a dip in a pool of cool mountain water and with extraordinary landscaped and wildlife photographic opportunities.
Remembering that the average summer daytime temperatures are seldom below thirty degrees and in winter the sun can be scorching with European summer averages, it is highly recommended that you prepare yourselves with the necessary clothing and accessories, like hats, suncream and even technologies like binoculars can be an eye-opener. Like most mountain ranges, there is a distinct microclimate with changeabilities in precipitation but in general, the rainy season is the southern summer with occasional electric storms and related more verdant vegetations between November and February. Complete cloud cover is a rarity while the winter sometimes produces a generalised browning with desiccation effects on lowland ecosystems. There are cornerstone plant species, some of which are unique to the region and it is strictly prohibited to take samples, other than photographic. Similarly, introduction of non-native species is not allowed. As a result of highly diverse plant-based habitats there is a considerable range of bird species and a mammalian multiplicity that exists in a delicate balance with agricultural practitioners.
For anyone who appreciates landscapes, geographical features, geological formations, active holidaying, quality hospitality, mountain culture and a recognisably unique way of life amongst its inhabitants showing a true community spirit, Chapada Diamantina is just the place to unwind away from the crazy modern western urban lives you lead. It is easily accessible within the heart of Bahia and whether you’re driving, flying or taking a luxurious bus, you can expect to arrive with minimal fuss on any of Brazil’s integrated national intercity road networks leading you to the towns around the park. For those of you who are rally enthusiasts there is a vast amount of dirt track driving between the towns of the region but you should be aware of where and when you can use your vehicles and always respect the local people and farmers who are permanent residents of this charmed gem of traditional rural Brazilian society.
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