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Itatiaia National Park: Brazil's Natural Crown Jewel

Discover Brazil's first national park: Hike majestic peaks, explore stunning waterfalls, and immerse yourself in the heart of the Atlantic Forest.

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Established in 1937, Itatiaia National Park is Brazil's oldest, a stunning mountain sanctuary straddling Rio de Janeiro and Minas Gerais. Explore diverse trails, waterfalls, and peaks like Pico das Agulhas Negras, immersing yourself in the heart of the Atlantic Forest.

A brief summary to Itatiaia National Park

  • Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-5 pm
  • Friday 8 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Weekends can get crowded, especially on popular trails. Visit during the week for a quieter experience.
  • Wear sturdy hiking shoes as the trails can be rocky and steep.
  • Bring your own food and water, especially if you plan on doing longer hikes. There are limited options for food inside the park.
  • Consider hiring an authorized guide to enhance your experience and ensure safety.
  • Be prepared for varying weather conditions, as the temperature can change quickly, especially at higher elevations.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From Itatiaia city center, follow the signs to Itatiaia National Park. Continue onto Estrada do Parque Nacional. The park entrance is approximately 8.5 km from the main road. There is a parking fee of approximately R$ 10.00 per vehicle.

  • Public Transport

    Take a bus from Itatiaia city center towards the park. Some bus services may drop you off closer to the park entrance. Alternatively, take a taxi or ride-sharing service from Itatiaia to the park entrance at Estrada do Parque Nacional, Km 8.5. Expect to pay around R$ 30.00 for the taxi ride. The bus up to the park costs just R1.90.

Unlock the Best of Itatiaia National Park

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Discover more about Itatiaia National Park

Itatiaia National Park, Brazil's first national park, is a haven of biodiversity and stunning landscapes. Founded in 1937, the park protects the Atlantic Forest biome within the Mantiqueira Mountains, encompassing parts of Itatiaia and Resende in Rio de Janeiro, and Bocaina de Minas and Itamonte in Minas Gerais. The park's name, meaning "many-pointed rock" in the Tupi language, reflects its dramatic, rocky terrain. The park's altitudes range from 600 to 2,791 meters, offering varied ecosystems from lush Atlantic forests to high-altitude grasslands. Pico das Agulhas Negras (Black Needles Peak), the park's highest point and the third highest in Brazil, provides breathtaking panoramic views. Other notable formations include the Shelves Massif, Altar Stone, and Bell Stone. Visitors can explore over 46 trails, ranging from easy strolls to challenging treks. Popular trails lead to waterfalls like Véu de Noiva (Bridal Veil) and attractions such as the Blue Lake Trail and the Three Peaks Trail. The park is divided into a lower section, known for its waterfalls and a natural history museum, and an upper section, featuring the highest peaks and alpine scenery. Birdwatchers will delight in the park's 350+ bird species, including the endangered Brazilian Merganser, while hikers may spot mammals like sloths and capybaras. Itatiaia's rich history includes its use as a gold transport route in the 19th century and its role as the birthplace of Brazilian mountain climbing. The park's countless springs feed the Rio Paraíba, a crucial water source for Rio de Janeiro.

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