The name comes from its plateaus, that resembles the shape of stone tables (in Portuguese Mesas means tables, hence the name), mainly concentrated in the cities of Carolina and Riachão. Its plateaus are due to the fragile sandstone walls formed millions of years ago, which were eroded by the action of winds and rains. This ecological sanctuary brings countless natural spectacles, unique examples of the Brazilian biomes. Undoubtedly, waterfalls and their natural swimming pools of crystalline water, with mild temperatures around 22° C (72° F) in the midst of the immense rocky walls, are mainly responsible for the charm that surrounds Chapada das Mesas. Twisted trees and multicolored sandstone cliffs hide a paradise that can be outlined in numbers: there are 89 waterfalls and over 400 crystalline water springs inside the Chapada das Mesas National Park - PARNA -, a conservation unit that resides inside the Chapada das Mesas, in one of the country’s most fascinating regions.