Minas has many trails, but one great trek: Lapinha-Tabuleiro, around 30 km crossing the top of the Espinhaço between the village of Lapinha da Serra and the monumental Cachoeira do Tabuleiro — 273 meters of falling water, the third highest in Brazil, plunging into a stone amphitheatre that makes anyone feel small (in the best sense).
The route
Normally done in 2 days (there are 1-day versions for marathon runners and 3-day ones for the contemplative), the trek leaves Lapinha da Serra — a village of a little white church and a golden lagoon, next door to the Serra do Cipó — and climbs to the rocky grasslands at the top of the Espinhaço: seas of canela-de-ema, endless viewpoints, hidden canyons and a night in a wild camp or at rural lodgings along the way. On the second day, the descent reveals the Tabuleiro valley and the final prize: the pool of the great waterfall, with gas-blue water.
A guide is strongly recommended
The trail crosses unsignposted terrain and the weather in the Espinhaço changes fast — local guides from Lapinha and Tabuleiro run the trek with logistical support (backpack transport and a transfer back to Lapinha, about 2h by car). Prices are around R$ 300-500 per person with guide and logistics, depending on the group. Cachoeira do Tabuleiro itself sits in a state park with a gate and opening hours — the last entry is usually in the afternoon; confirm on arrival.
The right backpack
- A light tent or a bed at rural lodgings (book through your guide).
- Water: 3 liters and purification tablets — the springs exist, but they are spread out.
- Full sun protection: the rocky grasslands have no shade.
- A warm layer: nights on the top get cold even in summer.
- Sneakers/boots with a firm sole — slab rock, gravel and sand take turns.
When to do it
May to September — dry season, open skies, starry nights. In the rains, the rivers along the way rise and the trek loses its charm (and its safety). A full moon on top of the Espinhaço is a life experience.
🥾 Who is it for?
Effort: intense — 30 km with a backpack over 2 days, hard climbs and a rustic overnight. Children: from age 14 with trail experience. Older travelers and reduced mobility: the trek demands full fitness; the accessible alternative is to visit Cachoeira do Tabuleiro directly through the state park gate (a short trail to the viewpoint) and to see Lapinha da Serra by car — the two ends, without the 30 km in the middle.