Brazil is a country known for its impressive biodiversity and lush landscapes, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventurous travelers. Across its territory, the country is home to national parks that protect some of the planet’s most valuable and diverse ecosystems. From tropical rainforests to majestic mountains, Brazil’s national parks allow tourists to experience the natural wonders this South American giant has to offer. Below, on BrazilGreenTravel, we present a guide to some of Brazil’s most outstanding national parks, ideal for exploring and enjoying nature in its purest form.
1. Amazon National Park (Pará)
Covering over 9 million hectares, Amazon National Park is nestled in the heart of the world’s largest tropical rainforest. This immense protected area is a biodiversity hotspot, home to thousands of plant and animal species—many of which are found nowhere else on Earth. Towering trees, meandering rivers, and dense jungle trails immerse visitors in the living, breathing essence of the Amazon.
Guided boat tours along the Tapajós River, hikes through primary forest, and cultural exchanges with indigenous communities offer a deep and authentic connection to the land and its people. Whether you’re spotting pink river dolphins, listening to the calls of howler monkeys, or learning about traditional forest medicine, a visit here is nothing short of transformative.
2. Iguaçu National Park (Paraná)
One of the most spectacular natural wonders in the world, Iguaçu National Park is home to the awe-inspiring Iguazú Falls, a collection of over 270 cascading waterfalls that span the border between Brazil and Argentina. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and in 2011, it was elected one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. The park is not only a visual marvel but also a thriving sanctuary for wildlife.
Visitors can explore extensive trails, take boat rides that bring them up close to the thundering falls, and encounter species like jaguars, toucans, capuchin monkeys, and colorful butterflies. The subtropical forest surrounding the falls adds an extra layer of richness, making this park an essential stop for those seeking a mix of adrenaline and serenity in nature.
3. Chapada Diamantina National Park (Bahia)
Located in the highlands of Bahia, Chapada Diamantina is a paradise for hikers, climbers, and lovers of dramatic landscapes. With its stunning plateaus, canyons, caves, and waterfalls, this park offers some of the most diverse and photogenic scenery in Brazil. Trails lead to panoramic viewpoints such as Morro do Pai Inácio, and adventurers can swim in the turquoise waters of Poço Azul or explore the mystical Crystal Cave with its gleaming quartz formations.
Beyond its natural wonders, the park is steeped in history, with nearby colonial towns like Lençóis offering charming inns, local cuisine, and a gateway to regional culture. It’s a destination that blends exploration, heritage, and ecological beauty.
4. Jericoacoara National Park (Ceará)
Tucked away in northeastern Brazil, Jericoacoara National Park is a coastal gem where rolling white sand dunes, tranquil lagoons, and vibrant marine life converge in a unique tropical setting. Known affectionately as “Jeri,” this once-hidden fishing village has become a favorite among eco-travelers and water sports enthusiasts.
The park is perfect for kitesurfing, windsurfing, or simply relaxing in hammocks suspended over crystal-clear lagoons like Lagoa do Paraíso. Visitors can watch one of Brazil’s most famous sunsets from the top of the Duna do Pôr do Sol, explore mangroves and tide pools, or discover the “Pedra Furada,” a naturally sculpted rock arch. It’s a haven of laid-back charm and natural elegance.
5. Lençóis Maranhenses National Park (Maranhão)
Few landscapes in the world compare to the surreal beauty of Lençóis Maranhenses, where endless white sand dunes stretch across the horizon, interrupted only by turquoise freshwater lagoons that form after the rains. This mesmerizing ecosystem looks like a mirage—and yet it’s real, and entirely unique to northern Brazil.
Exploring the park by 4×4, on foot, or even from the air offers unparalleled views of this otherworldly terrain. Swimming in the lagoons, such as Lagoa Bonita or Lagoa Azul, is an experience that defies description. The nearby town of Barreirinhas serves as the main gateway, offering eco-lodges and community-based tours that allow visitors to explore responsibly and sustainably.
