The rugged dirt roads leading to Jalapão State Park in the state of Tocantins cause two different reactions in those who brave it: some use it as way to meditate and enjoy the scenery, others suffer through it, understanding it is an ordeal to be endured before they reach Jalapão's dunes and small lakes with crystal clear waters.
The park is 200 miles away from Tocantins capital Palmas, but the mileage doesn't mean much. The first 100 miles are on a modern paved highway. After that, it's dirt, sand, holes, stones and a lot of dust.
Rain season happens from October to March, but during a six-day visit, it only rained briefly once, and the temperature reached 30 degrees Celsius (86 Fahrenheit). The dry season (April to September) can be even hotter.
Most of the lakes are located in private properties, and visitors need to pay an entrance fee.
Jalapão as a tourist destination gained popularity in the last ten years, but it's not advisable going there without a guide since the roads are unmarked, and there is no cellphone signal.
One of the highlights is the waterfall Cachoeira do Formiga. The trail to the top of Serra do Espírito Santo range is not for beginners, but the views make it worth it.
Translated by NATASHA MADOV
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