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Área de Proteção Ambiental do Planalto Central: A Natural Sanctuary

Discover the Área de Proteção Ambiental do Planalto Central: A haven of biodiversity, hiking trails, and vital water resources in the heart of Brazil.

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The Área de Proteção Ambiental do Planalto Central (Environmental Protection Area of the Central Plateau) is a federally managed conservation unit created in 2002 to protect the water supply, regulate water resource usage, and manage land use in the region. Covering a vast area across the Federal District and part of Goiás, it offers a vital sanctuary for the Cerrado biome and a space for recreation.

A brief summary to Área de Proteção Ambiental do Planalto Central

  • Parque Nacional de Brasília Rodovia, DF-003, s/n, Brasilia, Zona Industrial, Federal District, 70635-800, BR
  • +556299110-4006
  • Visit website

Local tips

  • Bring water and sun protection, as the Cerrado landscape offers limited shade.
  • Wear appropriate footwear for hiking, especially if exploring the trails.
  • Be aware of the local wildlife and avoid disturbing their natural habitat.
  • Check the weather forecast before visiting, as conditions can change rapidly.
  • Consider visiting during the dry season (May to September) for more pleasant hiking conditions.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Brasília's city center, take a bus towards Sobradinho or Planaltina. Check local bus routes and schedules for the most direct option to the APA. Bus fares within Brasília typically cost around R$ 5.54. From the bus stop, you may need to walk or take a short taxi/ride-share to reach specific trails or access points within the APA.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    From central Brasília, a taxi or ride-share is a convenient option. The cost can vary depending on the distance and traffic, but expect to pay approximately R$30-R$60 for a one-way trip to the APA from the city center. Be sure to specify your desired destination within the APA, as it covers a large area.

  • Driving

    If driving from Brasília, take the DF-003 highway towards the northern part of the Federal District. Follow the signs to Planaltina or Sobradinho. Depending on your destination within the APA, you may need to take secondary roads. Parking is generally free at trailheads, but availability can be limited during peak times.

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Discover more about Área de Proteção Ambiental do Planalto Central

The Área de Proteção Ambiental do Planalto Central (APA Planalto Central) is a significant environmental protection area established in 2002 to safeguard the natural resources of Brazil's Central Plateau. It spans a substantial 504,160 hectares, with 375,480 hectares within the Federal District and 128,680 hectares in the state of Goiás. This extensive area accounts for approximately 65.72% of the Federal District and 0.37% of the territory of Goiás. The APA's primary purpose is to protect the water sources, regulate the use of water resources, and manage land zoning, ensuring the rational use of natural resources while preserving the region's environmental and cultural heritage. It plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological integrity of the Cerrado biome, one of the world's most biodiverse savannas. The area is home to the headwaters of several important river basins, including the São Francisco, Araguaia-Tocantins, and Paraná. Visitors can explore the area and appreciate the unique landscapes of the Cerrado, with its diverse plant life and geological formations. Hiking and cycling are popular activities, with trails like the Trilha da Pedra dos Amigos offering stunning views. The APA also serves as an important space for environmental education and raising awareness about the importance of conservation.

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