Serra da Canastra MG, Serra Da Canastra National Park Travel Guide

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Discover Brazil's Serra da Canastra National Park: Waterfalls, wildlife, and the source of the São Francisco River await in this natural paradise.

Serra da Canastra National Park, located in Minas Gerais, Brazil, is a haven for nature enthusiasts. It's known for diverse wildlife, stunning waterfalls like Casca D'Anta, and the source of the São Francisco River, offering breathtaking landscapes and hiking trails.

A brief summary to Serra da Canastra MG

São Roque de Minas, São José do Barreiro, State of Minas Gerais, 37928-000, BR

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Serra da Canastra MG.

Visit during the dry season (May to September) for the best hiking conditions and clearer skies.
Bring plenty of water and snacks, as facilities within the park are limited.
Hire a local guide to enhance your understanding of the park's flora and fauna.
Wear sturdy hiking boots and dress in layers to accommodate varying temperatures.
A 4x4 vehicle is recommended for navigating unpaved roads within the park.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

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Parque Nacional da Serra da Canastra

Headquarters and Office Serra da Canastra National Park

Cachoeira do Fundão

RPPN Cachoeira do Cerradão

Complexo de Cachoeiras Capão Fôrro

Explore Serra da Canastra MG on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Serra da Canastra MG, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transportation

To reach Serra da Canastra National Park via public transport, take a bus to São Roque de Minas from major cities like Belo Horizonte or Passos. From São Roque de Minas, hire a local taxi or ride-share to the park entrance, approximately 30 km away. Expect to pay around BRL 100-150 for a one-way taxi trip. Buses run several times a day; check the schedule in advance.
Taxi or Ride-sharing

From São Roque de Minas, taxis or ride-sharing services are available to reach the park entrance. The trip is about 30 km and takes 30-40 minutes. The fare typically costs around R$60 to R$80, depending on the service and time of day. Arrange for a return trip in advance, as options may be limited in the evening.
Car

If driving, take the MG-341 road towards São Roque de Minas. The park entrance is approximately 10 km from the town and is well-marked. Note that some roads within the park may be unpaved, requiring a vehicle with good clearance. Ensure you have enough fuel, as gas stations are limited in the area.

Discover more about Serra da Canastra MG

Serra da Canastra National Park, established in 1972, protects the headwaters of the São Francisco River and the surrounding ecosystems. The park spans approximately 197,810 hectares (488,800 acres) across multiple municipalities. It's characterized by a chapada-type plateau landscape with water springs and vast, treeless grass fields. Elevations range from 750 to 1,490 meters (2,460 to 4,890 feet).The park is renowned for its numerous waterfalls, including the famous Casca D'Anta, which plunges about 186 meters. Other notable waterfalls include Cachoeira do Fundão and Cachoeira do Cerradão. Serra da Canastra is also a sanctuary for diverse wildlife, including the maned wolf, giant anteater, and Brazilian Merganser.Visitors can explore various hiking trails, ranging from easy strolls to challenging routes. Popular activities include wildlife watching, birdwatching, and photography. The park also offers opportunities for swimming in natural pools and experiencing the local culture and cuisine, including the famous Canastra cheese.