Safari in Central Cerrado & Highlands

Compare Parks in Central Cerrado & Highlands

Ecosystem - Central Cerrado & Highlands

We love the sheer, untamed vastness of the Cerrado. Standing on the edge of a canyon, the wind whipping through the tall grasses, you feel a profound sense of ancient wilderness. The sunsets here are sensational, painting the sky in fiery hues over the endless savanna. We recommend taking time to explore the hidden waterfalls and crystal-clear rivers; they are the lifeblood of this incredible ecosystem and offer moments of pure, breathtaking beauty.

Expansive, rolling savannas stretch across a high plateau, punctuated by dramatic sandstone formations and deep river valleys.

Getting There - Central Cerrado & Highlands

Getting to the Central Cerrado and Highlands requires a bit of grit, but the rewards are immense. While Brasília is the most logical gateway, don't underestimate the charm of arriving by a small charter flight directly into the heart of the region, especially if heading to the more remote Jalapão. We always recommend securing a reliable 4WD vehicle for exploring the vastness; the unpaved tracks are part of the adventure, but can be unforgiving.

Weather & Climate in Central Cerrado & Highlands

The warmest temperatures in Central Cerrado & Highlands occur in September, averaging 24.9°C. The coolest conditions are in June at 20.5°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in July with average rainfall of 5.1mm. Average humidity: 50.2%.

Monthly Temperatures

• January: 22.7°C (rainfall: 215.1mm)
• February: 22.7°C (rainfall: 185.6mm)
• March: 22.8°C (rainfall: 121.5mm)
• April: 22.5°C (rainfall: 74.0mm)
• May: 21.1°C (rainfall: 13.2mm)
• June: 20.5°C (rainfall: 6.3mm)
• July: 20.6°C (rainfall: 5.1mm)
• August: 22.3°C (rainfall: 10.7mm)
• September: 24.9°C (rainfall: 19.5mm)
• October: 24.7°C (rainfall: 112.8mm)
• November: 22.9°C (rainfall: 190.7mm)
• December: 22.9°C (rainfall: 225.2mm)

Best Time to Visit Central Cerrado & Highlands

The best months to visit Central Cerrado & Highlands are August, September, April, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

• January: Good, temperature 22.7°C, rainfall 215.1mm, sunshine 9.9 hrs, humidity 78%
• February: Good, temperature 22.7°C, rainfall 185.6mm, sunshine 9.8 hrs, humidity 78.8%
• March: Good, temperature 22.8°C, rainfall 121.5mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 75.1%
• April: Great, temperature 22.5°C, rainfall 74mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 72.1%
• May: Great, temperature 21.1°C, rainfall 13.2mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 63.1%
• June: Great, temperature 20.5°C, rainfall 6.3mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 58.7%
• July: Great, temperature 20.6°C, rainfall 5.1mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 50.2%
• August: Great, temperature 22.3°C, rainfall 10.7mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 45.5%
• September: Great, temperature 24.9°C, rainfall 19.5mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 43.2%
• October: Great, temperature 24.7°C, rainfall 112.8mm, sunshine 10.3 hrs, humidity 61%
• November: Good, temperature 22.9°C, rainfall 190.7mm, sunshine 9.9 hrs, humidity 73.9%
• December: Good, temperature 22.9°C, rainfall 225.2mm, sunshine 9.7 hrs, humidity 76.7%

Recommended Packing List for Central Cerrado & Highlands

Based on average temperature of 22.6°C, typical conditions, humidity 65%.

• Light layers - comfortable for 23°C weather
• Binoculars - essential for every game drive
• Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
• Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
• Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
• Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
• First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
• Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
• Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Wildlife in Central Cerrado & Highlands

Home to 120 recorded species including 46 birds of prey, 24 waterbirds, 22 tropical birds, 22 iconic birds, 2 small mammals, 1 reptiles.

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Brazil

Travel advisory for Brazil

Central Cerrado & Highlands FAQs

What unique wildlife can I expect to encounter in the Central Cerrado, and how does this differ from an African safari experience?

The Cerrado is home to unique species like the maned wolf, giant anteater, and tapir, which are distinct from the 'Big Five' of African safaris. Wildlife viewing here often involves tracking and patience, focusing on smaller, elusive mammals and a spectacular array of birds, rather than large herds.

Considering both the waterfalls of Jalapão and the caves of Peruaçu, when is the optimal time to visit the Central Cerrado & Highlands?

The dry season, typically from May to September, is ideal for exploring. During this period, roads are more accessible, waterfalls like those in Jalapão have clear, inviting waters, and cave exploration in Peruaçu is generally safer due to lower water levels.

What kind of transportation and physical activity should I expect when exploring the remote areas of Jalapão and the caves of Peruaçu?

Exploring Jalapão often requires 4x4 vehicles due to sandy, unpaved roads, and involves activities like hiking to waterfalls and swimming in natural pools. Peruaçu cave tours can range from easy walks to more strenuous treks requiring good mobility, often guided by local experts.

How do the costs for a Central Cerrado safari compare to more traditional wildlife safaris, and what budget considerations are unique to this region?

A Central Cerrado adventure typically offers a different value proposition than traditional African safaris, often focusing on guided adventure tours rather than luxury game drives. Costs usually cover specialized 4x4 transport, local guides, park entrance fees, and rustic to comfortable accommodations, with multi-day packages being common.

Are there specific safety considerations or health precautions travelers should take when visiting the remote Central Cerrado, especially regarding its unique environments?

Due to the remote nature and outdoor activities, it's crucial to bring strong insect repellent, sun protection, and stay well-hydrated. When exploring caves in Peruaçu, always follow your guide's instructions and wear appropriate footwear for uneven terrain.

Recommended Books

• The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
• Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
• Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
• National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
• The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
• Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
• Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
• The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
• The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
• Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
• African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
• Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
• Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
• The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
• The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
• Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
• When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
• Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
• Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
• Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
• Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
• Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
• Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
• Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
• Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.