The Aparados da Serra National Park (Parque Nacional Aparados da Serra) is a stunning destination located in the southern region of Brazil, spanning the states of Rio Grande do Sul and Santa Catarina.
It was created in 1959 to protect a significant portion of the Serra Geral mountain range and the stunning canyons carved by rivers such as the Itaimbezinho and Fortaleza.
Location of Aparados Da Serra national park
- The park is situated in the Serra Geral mountain range, near the border between the states of Rio Grande do Sul and Santa Catarina.
- It is approximately 200 kilometers (124 miles) northeast of the city of Porto Alegre, the capital of Rio Grande do Sul.
How to get there:
The closest major airport to Aparados da Serra National Park is the Salgado Filho International Airport (POA) in Porto Alegre, Brazil. It is located approximately 190 kilometers (about 118 miles) northeast of the national park. From Porto Alegre, visitors can travel by road to reach Aparados da Serra National Park.
Flora of Aparados Da Serra national park
- Atlantic Forest Vegetation: The park is located within the Atlantic Forest biome, one of the most biodiverse regions in the world. It is characterized by a variety of plant species, including trees, shrubs, and epiphytes.
- Araucaria Trees: The park is home to Araucaria trees, also known as Brazilian pine or Paraná pine. These iconic trees are an important component of the park’s ecosystem and are often found in higher elevations.
- Bromeliads and Orchids: The Atlantic Forest harbors a diverse array of epiphytic plants, including bromeliads and orchids, which thrive in the park’s humid and forested areas.
- Grasslands: In addition to forests, the park also features grassland ecosystems known as “campos de cima da serra,” characterized by herbaceous vegetation adapted to colder temperatures and frequent winds.
Fauna of Aparados Da Serra national park
- Endangered Species: The Aparados da Serra National Park provides habitat for several endangered species, including the Brazilian merganser (Mergus octosetaceus) and the southern muriqui (Brachyteles arachnoides), both of which are critically endangered.
- Birdlife: The park is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 250 bird species recorded, including toucans, eagles, and the striking red-breasted toucan (Ramphastos dicolorus).
- Mammals: Other mammal species found within the park include pumas (Puma concolor), ocelots (Leopardus pardalis), and South American coatis (Nasua nasua).
- Reptiles and Amphibians: The park is also home to a variety of reptiles and amphibians, such as the green anaconda (Eunectes murinus) and the Rio Grande do Sul frog (Odontophrynus maisuma).
Things to Do in Aparados Da Serra national park
- Hiking: The park offers a variety of hiking trails that cater to different skill levels, allowing visitors to explore its stunning landscapes and diverse ecosystems. Popular trails include those leading to the Itaimbezinho and Fortaleza canyons.
- Scenic Drives: There are scenic roads within the park that provide breathtaking views of the canyons and surrounding areas. Visitors can drive or take guided tours along these routes to admire the natural beauty of the region.
- Wildlife Watching: The park is home to a rich diversity of flora and fauna, including endangered species such as the Brazilian merganser and the southern muriqui. Birdwatching and wildlife spotting are popular activities for nature enthusiasts.
- Photography: The dramatic landscapes of the Aparados da Serra National Park offer endless opportunities for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset when the light accentuates the contours of the canyons.
- Camping: Camping facilities are available within the park, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in nature and spend the night under the stars. It’s important to check with park authorities regarding camping regulations and reservations.
Weather of Aparados Da Serra national park
- The climate in the Aparados da Serra National Park can vary depending on the altitude and season.
- Summers (December to March) tend to be warm, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F).
- Winters (June to August) are cooler, with temperatures dropping to around 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F).
- Rainfall is evenly distributed throughout the year, although it may be slightly higher during the summer months.
Aparados Da Serra National Park photo
Overall, the Aparados da Serra National Park offers a unique and unforgettable experience for those seeking to explore Brazil’s natural beauty and biodiversity. Whether you’re an avid hiker, wildlife enthusiast, or simply looking to enjoy stunning landscapes, this park has something to offer for everyone.
Tag: aparados da serra national park brazil, parque nacional de aparados da serra, parque nacional dos aparados da serra,