Wow, very similar! In couple the Chapada dos Veadeiros is perfect to get rides, thanks to the rides we met a lot of stunning places and people who helped us (once one woman helped us with ride and gave 50 reais to us!) :D
Are you and @lisamalletart volunteering now? We use workaway.info to find hosts, I think you should know, but if don't, it's very interesting to know more about.