10 Most Beautiful National Parks in Brazil boasts the highest level of biodiversity in the world, with an incredible array of flora and fauna. The extensive network of national parks in Brazil offers unparalleled opportunities to discover this natural wonder. These parks encompass a range of landscapes, from lush rainforests to towering mountains and canyons. Here are some of the most stunning national parks in Brazil that are certainly worth exploring.
Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park
Situated in the state of Goias, approximately 240 km (150 miles) away from Brasilia, this park is renowned for its stunning quartz rock formations and abundant waterfalls. One of the prominent highlights is the Pedreiras Waterfall, which offers an ideal setting for swimming or indulging in the therapeutic and calming effects of water.
For the daring and adventurous, abseiling down the waterfalls using ropes is a popular activity, although it is strongly advised to partake in this under the supervision of an experienced guide. The park boasts a diverse range of flora and fauna, including several endangered species like guara wolves, jaguars, swamp deer, and armadillos.
Lencois Maranhenses National Park
This particular park is situated in the northeastern region of Brazil, specifically in the state of Maranhão. Lençóis Maranhenses is characterized by its scarcity of vegetation and its predominant composition of sand dunes. Guided tours are typically conducted using 4×4 vehicles, although traversing this desert-like terrain on foot can also be captivating. Despite the potential heat in the afternoon, it is quite rejuvenating to take a dip in one of the numerous lakes, rivers, or lagoons present in the area.
Additionally, visitors have the opportunity to explore the dunes on horseback or from an aerial perspective, either by helicopter or small plane. It is worth noting that the optimal time to visit this park is during the rainy season, which falls between July and September. This is when the lagoons are at their fullest and most captivating.
Aparados da Serra National Park[SEE MAP]
Aparados da Serra National Park, established in 1959, stands as one of Brazil’s oldest national parks. Situated in the southern region of the country, specifically in the states of Santa Catarina and Rio Grande do Sul, this park has garnered popularity as a trekking destination. Renowned for its breathtaking canyons and lush rainforests, it boasts the remarkable Itaimbezinho Canyon, nestled within a subtropical rainforest and adorned with two magnificent waterfalls. Presently, the park imposes a daily limit of 1,500 visitors. Due to its close proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, the park experiences high humidity and frequent foggy conditions.
Fernando de Noronha Marine National Park
Mathieu Bertrand Struck / Flickr
Fernando de Noronha is a group of six main islands located in the Atlantic Ocean, approximately 350 km (220 miles) away from the Brazilian coast. The majority of tourists tend to explore the main island, which features a small city, by buggy.
The archipelago boasts over a dozen beaches that are perfect for swimming, diving, surfing, and snorkeling. To gain access to all the beaches, visitors must purchase a pass. The marine wildlife in this national park is diverse and includes sea turtles, dolphins, sharks, stingrays, and various types of fish. There are several hotels available for visitors to stay in during their trip.
Chapada Diamantina National Park is one of the 10 Most Beautiful National Parks in Brazil
This national park is situated in Bahia, a region in northeastern Brazil, and boasts some of the most extraordinary and breathtaking landscapes in the entire country. Within the park, you’ll come across unique rock formations, caves, lakes, and mesas that offer endless opportunities for exploration, whether it be for a few hours or several days.
One of the park’s most renowned attractions is the Cachoeira da Fumaça, which stands as the highest waterfall in the country. Despite its impressive height of 380 meters (1250 feet), the water flow is not substantial enough to overcome the drop. Additionally, the park features the mesmerizing blue waters of the Poço Encantado (Enchanted Pool) and Poço Azul, which are truly captivating.
The closest town to the park is Lençóis, which gained fame in the 19th century due to significant diamond discoveries made by prospectors. If you desire to immerse yourself in the beauty of one of Brazil’s most stunning national parks, you can easily find a knowledgeable tour guide who can lead you on an unforgettable trek to various destinations within the park, including the enchanting Paty Valley.
Iguacu National Park
Iguaçu National Park, situated in the state of Parana, spans across both Brazil and Argentina. It encompasses the awe-inspiring Iguaçu Falls, one of the most magnificent waterfalls globally, located on the border of the two countries.
For an extraordinary perspective of the falls, visitors can embark on a thrilling helicopter ride over the park. Adjacent to the park lies Parque das Aves, a zoo housing a diverse range of birds and other wildlife. Additionally, this national park is also home to the Itaipu Dam, a significant power source for both Brazil and Paraguay.
Itatiaia National Park
Itatiaia National Park, founded in 1937, holds the distinction of being Brazil’s oldest national park. Nestled within the Mantiqueira mountain range, the park boasts some of the country’s tallest peaks, such as Prateleiras and Agulhas Negras. While Prateleiras is a relatively easy climb, Agulhas Negras requires a bit more effort and some mountaineering skills. As you ascend, the vegetation becomes sparser, so it’s important to bring sunblock and a hat. The views from the top are breathtaking, particularly during the dry season from May to August. The park is also a haven for bird enthusiasts, with over 350 species of birds to observe.
Chapada dos Guimaraes National Park
The state of Mato Grosso boasts a national park that showcases natural wonders like cliffs, canyons, waterfalls, and caves. As you traverse the savannah, you’ll be greeted by a plethora of vibrant flowers and forests teeming with diverse tree species. The park is also renowned for its archeological sites, including ancient cave paintings. Wildlife enthusiasts will be thrilled to spot gato-palheiro wildcats, eagles, anteaters, deer, and maned wolves. The optimal time to visit this park is during the dry season, which spans from May to September. However, the park is often closed to visitors during the rainy season, which falls between December and April.
Pantanal Matogrossense National Park
Situated in the southern region of Matto Grosso, this park is characterized by the presence of the Cuiaba River and the surrounding wetlands. Notably, it boasts the largest wetland area in the entire world. A visit to this park promises an abundance of wildlife, with a particular emphasis on various species of exotic birds like parrots, macaws, and ibis.
Moreover, you may have the opportunity to encounter anteaters, jaguars, black howler monkeys, tapirs, and numerous other fascinating creatures. Due to the extensive duration of the journey to and from this national park, it is advisable to allocate a minimum of close to a week for this trip, as you would want to spend at least a couple of days exploring and immersing yourself in its natural wonders.
Jericoacoara National Park
Jericoacoara National Park, situated in the state of Ceara, boasts a renowned beach that shares its name with the park itself. This beach is a haven for water sports enthusiasts, offering thrilling activities such as sailing, windsurfing, and sandboarding. Within the park, you will encounter a diverse range of landscapes, including picturesque beaches, captivating swamps, majestic sand dunes, mysterious caverns, and lush forested areas adorned with coconut trees.
To explore the sandy terrains, many visitors opt for exhilarating rides in dune buggies or other 4×4 vehicles. Interestingly, the sole means of accessing the park is by embarking on a 4×4 journey from the nearest town, which is also known as Jericoacoara. Additionally, the park encompasses numerous ponds and lakes, providing tranquil spots where you can unwind on a hammock while immersing yourself in the breathtaking surroundings.
