Description
The National Park of the Chapada Diamantina is one of the most fascinating nature parks in Brazil. Situated about 400 kms inland from Salvador, its mountain scenery contains an extraordinary variety of ecosystems, such as Cerrado (savannah), Mata Atlantica (Atlantic Forest), and Caatinga (semi-arid scrub forest). The bromeliads and orchids find a privileged environment, adapting themselves to the differences in climate and altitude. The mountain tops reach a height of 5,660 feet and offer shelter to the Jaguatiricas (ocelot or local breed of feline), pumas, mocós (local rodents), deers, teiús (local reptile) and seriemas (small local crane-like bird).

Program
1st day
Early start at 06:30. 400km drive by bus to the Chapada Diamantina National Park. Arrival in the afternoon at the Capao Valley. Free time. And dinner at the Candomba guesthouse.

2nd day
Breakfast. Leave the Pousada Candomba by jeep for Bomba, a village at the end of the Capao valley. 5 hours of walking and discovering local flora and fauna. Refreshments at the Cristais waterfalls and some swimming. Climb the “Quebra Bunda” Hill with gorgeous sights from the top of the Sincorá. Rupestre vegetation, insect eater plants (Drosera), Canelas de Ema (Esp Veloziae), centenárias, bromélias. Possible sight of Pé-de-Sera Hawk, the biggest Brazilian hawk, and the Siriema. The trek passes by old buildings and some trek pavements. The camp is beside the Samuel waterfall where we visit the surroundings and bathe. Dinner at the same place spending the night in tents.

3rd day
Breakfast. About 5 hours of trekking on various trails, formerly used by cultivators to transport coffee beans, with amazing landscapes. Overnight at the home of an indigenous native.

4th day
Cross the Pati Valley by following the main river. Refreshments at the old Mayor’s House now a school building and shelter for trekkers. Beautiful vegetation with some historical workers’ houses. 5 hours of walking and bathing in the river. Accommodation at the home of an indigenous native, close to the Empire Bridge, built during the period of the diamond rush. Dinner.

5th day
Breakfast. Last day on the trail. Today we are heading towards Andaraí, passing by ancient diamond digger settlements from the last century. The origin of the Rio Bahiano has an amazing view over the entire Pati Valley and the Serra dos Guaribas. Our transportation awaits us at Andarai. We return to Lençois and stay at the hotel. Evening free.

6th day
Breakfast. Early transfer by bus back to Salvador