Who are we:
"Everything coexists.
Each action affects the life of the other."
Combining natural itineraries, visual production and historical research
Chapada Velha is an initiative that offers unique and differentiated experiences in the region of Vale do Capão and Chapada Diamantina. Founded by guide, photographer and documentary filmmaker Rafael Lage and by collaborators committed to the preservation of nature and the appreciation of local culture, we operate on a tripod that unites sustainable ecotourism, audiovisual production and historical research in the territory of Chapada Diamantina. Based in Vale do Capão, we offer personalized and exclusive itineraries that provide immersive experiences in the lush nature of the region. In addition, we dedicate ourselves to the production of audiovisual content that portrays the beauty and cultural richness of Chapada Diamantina, contextualized to research that helps to reveal the secrets of the region. Welcome to Chapada Velha, where ecotourism, audiovisual production and historical research come together in an unforgettable experience!
A collaborative agency
Ecological awareness and sustainability are not real without taking into account the entire scope of social relations and nature.
Inform and sensitize travelers about the need to protect and contribute to the preservation of our ecosystems and generate opportunities for a responsible and friendly immersion in nature, being aware of our limitations and the importance of including all social strata.
Our mission:
WHY CHOOSE PLATED VELHA?
Sustainable tourism is everyone's commitment. Both the guide and visitors are responsible for preserving, educating and protecting.
meet the team:
Chapada Velha is an initiative that offers unique and differentiated experiences in the Vale do Capão region and Chapada Diamantina. Founded by guide, photographer and documentary filmmaker Rafael Lage and collaborators committed to preserving nature and valuing local culture, we operate on a tripod that unites sustainable ecotourism, audiovisual production and historical research in the Chapada Diamantina territory.
Based in Vale do Capão, we offer personalized and exclusive itineraries that provide immersive experiences in the region's exuberant nature. Furthermore, we are dedicated to producing audiovisual content that portrays the beauty and cultural richness of Chapada Diamantina, contextualized with research that helps to uncover the region's secrets. Welcome to Chapada Velha, where ecotourism, audiovisual production and historical research come together in an unforgettable experience!
meet the team:
Rafael Lage
Born in 1981 in Belo Horizonte/MG and raised in Salvador/BA, he began his journey with bicycle trips across Brazil, crossing 15 states over 6 years. As a photographer and documentary filmmaker, he stood out in capturing Brazilian popular culture and media. His works include films such as "Malucos de Estrada - Cultura de BR", "Deumrole", "Quilombo de Corcovado - Ancestralidade" and "Caminho de Barro", which addresses dam collapses in Minas Gerais.
His relationship with Chapada Diamantina began in 2003 and solidified in 2008, when he began living in the village of Vale do Capão. Since then, Rafael has dedicated himself to capturing the natural and socio-cultural aspects of Chapada on film and photography, researching its history through oral reports from the local population and official documents in collections. His extensive experience, together with a deep knowledge of the Chapada Diamantina National Park and his training as a mountain guide and in minimal impact practices in conservation units, have made him a specialized guide in the territory. Its focus goes beyond, covering historical and human aspects, and promoting sustainable visitation to the park's attractions.
Sina Horndt
Born in 1981 in Belo Horizonte/MG and raised in Salvador/BA, he began his journey with bicycle trips across Brazil, crossing 15 states over 6 years. As a photographer and documentary filmmaker, he stood out in capturing Brazilian popular culture and media. His works include films such as "Malucos de Estrada - Cultura de BR", "Deumrole", "Quilombo de Corcovado - Ancestralidade" and "Caminho de Barro", which addresses dam collapses in Minas Gerais.
His relationship with Chapada Diamantina began in 2003 and solidified in 2008, when he began living in the village of Vale do Capão. Since then, Rafael has dedicated himself to capturing the natural and socio-cultural aspects of Chapada on film and photography, researching its history through oral reports from the local population and official documents in collections. His extensive experience, together with a deep knowledge of the Chapada Diamantina National Park and his training as a mountain guide and in minimal impact practices in conservation units, have made him a specialized guide in the territory. Its focus goes beyond, covering historical and human aspects, and promoting sustainable visitation to the park's attractions.
Gustavo Policarpo
Born in 1979 in Belo Horizonte/MG, he studied history at UFMG but instead of completing his education he decided to exchange books for the road. For more than ten years he traveled throughout Brazil and several Latin American, European and Asian countries, living off the crafts that can only be learned among road trippers and street artisans.
In 2003, together with a caravan of nomads who traveled through the savannah of Bahia on the back of mules and horses, they landed in the Capão Valley. His encounter with the diamond plate impacted his life forever, triggering events that led him to be located today in the city of Berlin, Germany.
During his travels between 2005/2006 he worked as a tourleader for the company GAP (GreatAdventurePeople) on routes in Bolivia and Peru.
In several situations, he guided tourists as a freelancer in different locations in different countries.