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As the demand for nature travel grows, Brazilian destinations across diverse biomes are strengthening their infrastructure to welcome visitors. From national parks to state-level conservation areas, the offerings include itineraries featuring hiking, diving, and wildlife observation.
The selection covers locations that require varying levels of planning, from short trips from capital cities to expeditions demanding 4×4 vehicles and specialized guides.
Plateau and Highland Circuits
In Bahia, Chapada Diamantina National Park covers an area of 70,000 hectares, with access through the towns of Lençóis and Vale do Capão. The journey from Salvador, about 420 km away, leads to attractions like the Fumaça Waterfall, which boasts a 400-meter drop.
In Goiás, Chapada dos Veadeiros, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is based around the municipality of Alto Paraíso, 200 km from Brasília. The region is characterized by its canyons, rivers, and unique rock formations.
Water and Biodiversity Itineraries
In Mato Grosso do Sul, the town of Bonito has established itself as a hub for nature tourism, offering activities like river snorkeling and visits to caves such as the Gruta do Lago Azul (Blue Lake Grotto). All visits to the region’s natural attractions are regulated and require advance booking through local agencies.
Jalapão State Park in Tocantins is known for its fervedouros (natural bubbling springs) and towering sand dunes, accessible via unpaved roads. The towns of Mateiros and São Félix do Tocantins serve as bases for exploring the area.
In Maranhão, Lençóis Maranhenses National Park combines a vast field of sand dunes with seasonal freshwater lagoons. The municipalities of Barreirinhas and Santo Amaro, approximately 250 km from the state capital São Luís, are the main starting points for tours.
Coastal and Mountain Conservation
The archipelago of Fernando de Noronha in Pernambuco requires tourists to pay an environmental preservation fee upon entry. The island, accessible by flights from Recife and Natal, is also home to a base for Projeto Tamar, the renowned sea turtle conservation project.
In the Southeast, Itatiaia National Park, located between the states of Rio de Janeiro and Minas Gerais, is Brazil’s oldest conservation unit. Situated in the Mantiqueira Mountains, the park offers hiking trails and mountaineering routes.
When visiting these more remote destinations, certain requirements are common. Planning your trip may include:
- Using 4×4 vehicles to travel within Jalapão.
- Mandatory booking of tours through agencies in Bonito.
- Hiring certified guides for treks in parks like Chapada Diamantina.