Meaningful Travel: How the TBC Project in Alto Paraíso Connects Travelers and Local Communities

Brazil is known for its breathtaking natural beauty — but it’s also a country of deep cultural richness and diversity. In the region surrounding Alto Paraíso de Goiás, the gateway to the Chapada dos Veadeiros, one project is bringing both aspects together in a meaningful and inspiring way: TBC Paraíso. But what does the name stand for — and why should conscious travelers pay close attention while organizing their Brazil trip?

TBC stands for Turismo de Base Comunitária - Community-Based Tourism. The concept: tourism that is organized and run by local communities themselves. Travelers engage directly with residents of small villages - far from conventional tourism structures. These encounters are based on respect and equality. They enrich not only the visitors, but also offer new perspectives for the hosts.
In Alto Paraíso, a spiritual hub in the state of Goiás, this concept has come to life with heart and intention: local families and guides have joined forces to create authentic experiences while strengthening their way of life in the process.

What makes the project truly unique: the residents are in charge. Each host sets the price for their own offerings. English-speaking local guides from Alto Paraíso support the process by organizing the activities, translating when needed, and accompanying guests throughout the experience.

The activities include:
• Visiting traditional villages
• Exploring local craftsmanship
• Guided hikes with community members
• Culinary insights into Cerrado cuisine

Guests are not treated as consumers — but as participants in a mutual exchange grounded in curiosity and appreciation.

The TBC model strengthens local economies, helps preserve traditional knowledge, and fosters sustainable development in rural areas. It offers genuine participation in tourism - away from big commercial operators, yet with significant impact. Travelers get to experience a raw, human side of Brazil. And for the communities, the project empowers them to share their identity with the world - on their own terms.

At Aventura do Brasil, we’re committed to promoting tourism that is thoughtful, respectful, and impactful - and the TBC Project in Alto Paraíso is a shining example of that. It’s an ideal addition to any journey through the Chapada dos Veadeiros or Brasília and takes you to places where genuine connection is not only possible - but inevitable.
Whether as a day trip or multi-day immersion, we’re happy to help you include a visit to TBC Paraíso in your customized Brazil vacation. After all, sustainable travel often begins with small steps - and sometimes, those steps lead into the heart of a village where you’re greeted with open arms.

Sources: https://www.gov.br/turismo/pt-br/acesso-a-informacao/acoes-e-programas/programas-projetos-acoes-obras-e-atividades/turismo-responsavel/Guia_pratico_comunidades_turistas_TBC_Barreto_2023_compressed.pdf, https://www.tbcparaiso.com, https://www.instagram.com/tbcparaiso/