A well-kept secret, Goiás Velho (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) is quite simply one of the most attractive and best preserved colonial towns in Brazil [1]. Founded in 1726 by fortune-hunting bandeirantes who struck gold in the surrounding hills, over the next century Vila Boa (or “Good Town” as it was originally known) evolved from a rugged mining town into gracious state capital.
With the end of the gold rush and subsequent transfer of the capital to Goiânia, Goiás Velho reverted to a certain languor that still envelops the town and makes it so appealing and restful. Aside from the its architectural treasures (almost completely restored after a devastating 2001 flood), the surrounding countryside beckons with its many waterfalls and trails meandering through the Cerrado. Although the town is small, you could easily spend a few days here just soaking up the tranquil atmosphere.
Goiás Velho is surrounded by the Serra Dourada, a region of hills and forests sprinkled with waterfalls and natural pools. The falls closest to town are Cachoeira Grande, 7 kilometers (4.5 miles) to the east, and the more spectacular Cachoeira das Andorinhas, 1 kilometer (0.6 mile) further. You can easily get to them by hiring a moto-taxi.
Goiás is 320 kilometers (200 miles) from Brasília [2]. However, the city with easiest access is Goiânia, 140 kilometers (87 miles) away. If you’re driving, follow the BR-070 from Brasília to Goiânia, and then take the GO-070. Frequent buses make the 2.5-hour journey from Brasília to Goiânia with Viação Goiania (tel. 62/3242-4400, www.viacaogoiania.com.br [3]). Moreira (tel. 62/3297-1444, www.empresamoreira.com.br [4]) offers service from Goiânia to Goiás Velho.
Links:
[1] http://www.moon.com/destinations/brazil/discover-brazil
[2] http://www.moon.com/destinations/brazil/brasilia-and-the-pantanal/brasilia
[3] http://www.viacaogoiania.com.br
[4] http://www.empresamoreira.com.br